On Campus Employment

F-1 regulations allow students to work part-time (up to 20 hours) during the academic term at approved on-campus jobs, and more than 20 hours during holidays, vacations and university breaks. TA’s and RA’s should obtain permission from the Graduate School for work which is in addition to their assistantship. Students must be sure they do not work more than 20 hours per week at any on-campus job or combination of jobs during the academic semester.  Working more than 20 hours per week during the term can result in a loss of F-1 status.  Marquette students can view and apply for open campus job positions at My Jobs.


Off Campus Employment

Practical Training

Practical Training is an authorized period of work – directly related to one’s program of study – that provides work experience.  To qualify, an F-1 student must be in valid status and have maintained that status for at least one academic year (9 months) and meet the requirements cited in the regulations. Practical training includes Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT).

Severe Economic Hardship

Students who encounter an unforeseen change in their sponsor’s economic situation can apply for Severe Economic Hardship.  Students wishing to apply for Severe Economic Hardship authorization must have completed at least one academic term of full-time studies, hold valid F-1 status, not be able to secure an on-campus job and document the unforeseen change in their financial situation.  The must also pay the $340 application fee. Students with this authorization are still restricted to 20 hours of work per week during the academic term.

Students in this situation should contact the Office of International Education to meet with an OIE advisor.

International Organizations

Certain international organizations located in the U.S. are authorized to employ F-1 students.  The organization must provide certification that the proposed employment is within the scope of its sponsorship. Students in this situation should contact the Office of International Education to meet with an OIE advisor.