F-1 students are generally not authorized to work, except in very limited circumstances such as part-time on-campus jobs (20 hours or less) or through Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT). International students must obtain permission from the Designated School Official (DSO) before starting any employment. 

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) allows international students to gain employment training and work in paid internship positions. If an internship is an integral part of your degree program, speak to the DSO about applying for CPT. Not that part-time CPT does not count against the time allowed for OPT. For detailed information about employment and training options available to F-1 students, consult your DSO and visit the Working in the United States page. 

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is temporary employment that is directly related to an F-1 student’s major area of study. At the beginning of your final semester, speak with the DSO about applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT). OPT allows up to one year of work while maintaining student visa status, subject to certain conditions. International students must also apply for employment authorization (EAD) from USCIS, which involves a fee. Authorization for OPT is not guaranteed. For more information, visit the Study in the States Training Opportunities in the United States page.