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Working While in F-1 Visa Status

Work opportunities for students on an F-1 visa are very limited. The DHS (Department of Homeland Security) would be very happy if you were to come here, study without leaving campus,and then go directly home. They have recognized, however, that theoretical learning is much enhanced by practical application of what is learned in the classroom, so they have made some allowances for students to work as part of their education. They also understand that emergencies do happen and have allowed avenues for work to cover unexpected emergency changes in your circumstances.

VERY IMPORTANT!
You must have authorization from USCIS (Citizenship and Immigration Services) before you work off-campus. Working without authorization will cause you to fall out of status.

You are eligible to work on campus for up to 20 hours per week with no special permission. Working off-campus requires special permission from either the IES office or the USCIS and is allowed only under very restricted conditions. If you are interested in working off-campus, check with IES first.

Please attend workshops provided by IES on different employment options.

Important: If you are a Teaching Assistant (TA), Research Assistant(RA), Graduate Assistant (GA) or on a Fellowship, you are not allowed to work an additional job. Such a position is considered, along with your class load, a full-time position.

International Education Services
224 Administration Bldg.
1000 Hilltop Circle
Baltimore, MD 21250
Tel: +1.410.455-2624
Fax: +1.410.455-1130
E-mail: ies@umbc.edu