Student Employment Overview

On-Campus Employment

In most cases, on-campus employment is work that directly supports the student body (for example, working at a school bookstore, cafeteria, or residence hall). 

Note: On-campus employment is not recorded in SEVIS. 

Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

CPT is training that is an integral (i.e., required) part of the student’s curriculum. It is authorized by the DSO.

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

OPT allows postsecondary students to get practical training in their field of study. Types:

• Pre-completion OPT: Used before the student’s program end date.
• Post-completion OPT: Used after the student’s program end date; or for a student in a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree program, after completion of all course requirements for degree (excluding thesis or the equivalent).
• 24-month Extension of OPT (STEM OPT): Used after regular OPT is completed. Only for students who majored in DHS-approved Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) degrees.
• Cap-Gap OPT Extension: For students whose future employer files a qualifying H-1B petition.

OPT must be authorized by USCIS through the issuance of an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

Off-Campus Employment

Off-campus employment is for individual students with:

• Severe financial hardship.
• Emergent Circumstances
• Special student relief

Off-campus employment must be authorized by USCIS through the issuance of an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

Internship with an International Organization

This is work with an organization covered by the International Organizations Immunities Act. Internships with an international organization must be authorized by USCIS through the issuance of an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).