Regulations and guidelines about international student employment

Employment is defined as any type of work performed or services provided in exchange for money, tuition, fees, books, supplies, room, food, or any other compensation. Employment opportunities in the U.S. are extremely limited for students in F-1 and J-1 visa status. Work authorization of one type or another is needed for an international student to work in the U.S. USCIS considers unauthorized employment to be the most serious violation of F-1 and J-1 status.

On-Campus Employment

On-campus employment is employment on the Quinnipiac University campus that is paid by Quinnipiac or an approved campus vendor, such as Chartwells Dining Services or Follett Bookstore.

Learn more about working on campus

Off-Campus Employment

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) – F-1

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is authorization for “training” prior to program completion that is required or an integral part of your academic curriculum, such as internships, clinicals, practicums, or off-campus research.

Learn more about Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

Optional Practical Training (OPT) – F-1

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is authorization for “training” before or after completion of your degree in a position directly related to your program of study, but is not a part of your academic curriculum.

Learn more about Optional Practical Training (OPT)

STEM OPT Extension – F-1

The STEM extension of Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a 24-month extension of OPT for F-1 students who earn a degree in designated STEM fields and secure employment with employers that satisfy a number of criteria.

Learn more about STEM OPT Extension

J-1 Academic Training

Academic Training (AT) is employment authorization for students in J-1 status to obtain practical experience in their field of study during or after their academic program.

Learn more about J-1 Academic Training (AT)