How do F-1 visa regulations affect part-time job options for students?

I'm an international student on an F-1 visa and want to know what part-time job opportunities I can take on while studying. How does the visa limit where or how much I can work?

The regulations for the F-1 student visa do limit the type and duration of part-time jobs that you can take.

On-campus jobs are the primary work option for F-1 students during their first year of study. This could be working in the university cafeteria, library, or administrative offices. The job doesn't necessarily need to be directly related to your course of study. However, you are limited to 20 hours per week when school is in session, but can work full-time during holidays and vacation periods.

Once you have completed your first academic year, you may also consider off-campus employment opportunities, but these are limited to specific types under U.S. regulations.

One is Curricular Practical Training (CPT), which is off-campus work related to your field of study. You would need to get authorization from your college and it usually must be part of your curriculum or credit-bearing.

The other is Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows you to work off-campus in a role related to your field of study for up to 12 months, and up to 36 months if you're in a STEM field. OPT can be done before you graduate, after you graduate, or a combination of both. However, all periods of part-time OPT will be deducted at one-half the full-time rate from this total period available.

Remember, you must always be mindful of your status and not work unauthorized employment. This can violate the terms of your F-1 visa and you could risk losing your legal status in the U.S. It's always a good idea to check with your school's international student services office before accepting any kind of employment. They can guide you on these important regulatory matters.