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EMPLOYMENT

Working legally in the United States under an F-1 nonimmigrant student visa involves special considerations and restrictions established by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Employment for international students falls into two different categories: (1) on-campus employment and (2) off-campus employment.

On-campus Employment

According to the USCIS, international students in good academic standing are eligible to work on campus beginning their first semester. Students are not allowed to exceed 19 hours of work while school is in session, however, you may work full time during semester breaks, vacation periods and holidays. No special permission is required from USCIS for this type of employment. A social security card is required by Armstrong’s Office of Human Resources prior to beginning employment.

You may come across on-campus job offers posted in hallways and bulletin boards. Please feel free to contact the corresponding department directly, or contact the office of International Education if you are in need of guidance. Another way to find on-campus employment is to contact the Office of Human Resources (344.2587) on Armstrong’s campus.

Off-campus Employment

Students in the U.S. on an F-1 visa are expected to have sufficient financial resources to support themselves without employment. However, circumstances may arise when employment is needed in order to continue your education. F-1 students in good standing with USCIS may apply for off-campus work authorization based on severe economic hardship. According to the USCIS, circumstances that constitute a severe economic hardship include loss of financial aid or unexpected changes in the financial condition of the student’s source of support, medical bills, or other substantial or unexpected expenses. An application for work authorization (Form I-765) must be filed with the USCIS and a $340 application fee is required. Processing for this authorization may take up to three months.

Please contact the Office of International Education if you intend to seek employment. We are here to assist you!

Armstrong Atlantic State University
Office of International Education
Gamble Hall 204A
11935 Abercorn Street
Savannah, GA 31419

Phone: (001) 912.344.3128 Fax: (001) 912.344.3456