Can International Students Work Part-Time Co-Op Outside School in the USA?
International students studying in the United States often seek opportunities to gain practical experience and earn extra income. Many wonder whether they can work part-time or participate in co-op programs outside of their academic institution. This article explores the opportunities and regulations governing part-time co-op work for international students in the USA, ensuring you understand what is permitted under student visas.
Understanding the F-1 Visa and Employment Options
Most international students in the U.S. hold an F-1 visa, which is specifically for full-time academic students. This visa comes with strict regulations regarding employment, limiting where, when, and how much an international student can work while pursuing their studies.
On-Campus Employment
The easiest and most common form of employment for F-1 students is on-campus work. Students with an F-1 visa are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic semester and full-time (over 20 hours per week) during scheduled breaks, such as summer vacation.
However, many students look for off-campus work, particularly in their field of study. This is where programs like Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) come into play.
What Is Curricular Practical Training (CPT)?
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a form of off-campus employment that allows F-1 students to gain practical experience related to their major field of study. CPT can include internships, practicums, or cooperative education (co-op) programs.
Eligibility for CPT
To be eligible for CPT, students must:
- Have been enrolled in their academic program for at least one academic year (except for graduate students whose programs require immediate participation in CPT).
- Have a job offer related to their major field of study.
- Obtain authorization from their Designated School Official (DSO) before beginning any off-campus employment.
Part-Time vs. Full-Time CPT
CPT can be part-time (20 hours or less per week) or full-time (over 20 hours per week). However, if a student participates in full-time CPT for 12 months or more, they may lose eligibility for Optional Practical Training (OPT), another form of off-campus employment.
What Is Optional Practical Training (OPT)?
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is another pathway that allows international students to work off-campus, usually after completing their studies. Unlike CPT, OPT is not tied to a specific course and can be used either during or after the completion of a degree.
Eligibility for OPT
To qualify for OPT, students must:
- Be enrolled for at least one full academic year.
- Apply for work authorization from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Use the employment opportunity to gain experience directly related to their field of study.
Part-Time OPT
Students can apply for part-time OPT while they are still enrolled in school. This allows them to work up to 20 hours per week in a position related to their major. Full-time OPT is typically used after graduation.
Can International Students Participate in Co-Op Programs?
Co-op programs are a popular option for students who want to gain hands-on experience in their field of study while still attending school. Many universities in the U.S. offer co-op programs as part of their curriculum, allowing students to alternate between classroom learning and work placements in their industry.
Co-Op Through CPT
For international students, participating in a co-op program typically falls under CPT. As long as the co-op is part of the student’s academic curriculum and they receive authorization from their DSO, they can work part-time or full-time, depending on the program’s structure.
It’s important to note that co-op programs must be directly related to the student’s field of study. For instance, an engineering student could participate in a co-op with an engineering firm, but a biology student could not take on a co-op in marketing unless it relates directly to their academic program.
Working Outside of School: Important Restrictions
While CPT and OPT offer avenues for international students to gain off-campus work experience, there are strict limitations. Here are some important restrictions to be aware of:
No Unapproved Off-Campus Employment
Students are not permitted to work off-campus without proper authorization. Doing so can result in serious consequences, including visa revocation and deportation. Always ensure that you have the necessary permissions from both your DSO and, if required, USCIS before starting any off-campus job.
Limited Work Hours
Both CPT and OPT restrict the number of hours students can work. During the academic semester, part-time work is limited to 20 hours per week. Students can work full-time during breaks and after graduation under OPT.
Related to Field of Study
All off-campus work must be directly related to your field of study. Whether it’s through CPT or OPT, the job or co-op program must enhance your educational experience by providing practical skills in your area of academic focus.
STEM Extension for OPT
For students pursuing degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), there is an additional benefit. The STEM OPT extension allows students to extend their OPT period by 24 months, providing more time to gain valuable work experience in their field. This extension is available only to students with degrees in specific STEM fields and requires the employer to be enrolled in the E-Verify program.
How to Apply for CPT and OPT
The process for applying for CPT and OPT differs slightly. Here’s a quick overview of how to apply for each:
Applying for CPT
- Consult with Your DSO: Meet with your DSO to discuss your eligibility and the process for applying for CPT.
- Receive a Job Offer: You must have a job offer in hand before applying for CPT, and it must be related to your field of study.
- Submit a Request: Your DSO will submit a CPT authorization request on your behalf, which will be reflected on your Form I-20.
Applying for OPT
- Consult with Your DSO: Meet with your DSO to determine your eligibility for OPT.
- Submit an Application to USCIS: You’ll need to file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, with USCIS. You should apply for OPT up to 90 days before completing your degree.
- Wait for Approval: Once your OPT is approved, you’ll receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), allowing you to begin work.
Conclusion
While international students in the U.S. have opportunities to work part-time or participate in co-op programs, it’s essential to follow the rules and guidelines of the F-1 visa. Programs like CPT and OPT allow students to gain valuable work experience related to their field of study, but proper authorization is required. By adhering to visa regulations, international students can make the most of their time in the U.S., both academically and professionally.
FAQs
Can international students work off-campus in the USA without authorization?
No, international students must have authorization to work off-campus through programs like CPT or OPT.
What is the difference between CPT and OPT?
CPT is for work directly tied to a student’s curriculum, while OPT is a broader work authorization that can be used before or after completing a degree.
Can I participate in a co-op program as an international student?
Yes, international students can participate in co-op programs through CPT, as long as it’s part of their academic curriculum.
How many hours can I work under CPT?
Students can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic semester and full-time during school breaks.
Can I extend my OPT if I’m in a STEM field?
Yes, students in STEM fields can apply for a 24-month extension of their OPT.
