Can International Students Earn While Studying in the USA?

I'm considering studying in the USA and want to know if it's possible to earn money while studying as an international student. Are there options for part-time jobs or other ways to make money during my studies?

International students studying in the United States on an F-1 visa are allowed to work, but there are some restrictions.

First of all, during the first year of study, international students can only work on-campus and for up to 20 hours per week while school is in session. On-campus work includes working for an on-campus commercial business like a bookstore or cafeteria, working for your school's library, or having a teaching or research assistant position.

After the first academic year, F-1 visa students can apply for off-campus employment under certain conditions. They may then participate in training programs related to their field of study such as Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT). OPT allows you to work in your field of study for 12 months, and you can apply for an extension if you have a degree in a STEM field. CPT must be an integral part of your degree program or a requirement for a course, and can be full or part-time.

Additionally, F-1 visa students can apply for economic hardship work permits if they face significant financial problems due to unforeseen circumstances.

It's important to remember that working unlawfully in the U.S. can lead to deportation, so it's essential that international students consult their international office or legal resource before seeking employment outside of these guidelines.

Remember these opportunities aren't intended to be a primary source of income, so you'll need to make sure you can cover your basic expenses without relying solely on part-time work. Plan your finances accordingly and consider these work opportunities as getting valuable work experience and a little extra money, not as a way to fund your education.

For more information on these opportunities and application processes, do check with your school's international students office or academic advisor. They can guide you through your options and help you understand these regulations.