Employment is defined as "the rendering of services on either a part-time or full-time basis for compensation, financial or otherwise, including self-employment". 

Employment options for international students are limited but available. In general, students in F-1 and J-1 visa status are eligible to work on campus on a part-time basis (up to 20 hours per week). Please note that the 20 hours per week limit is inclusive of all employment. For example, if you work 15 hours a week in one job, you may only work 5 hours a week in your second job.

Students in F-1 and J-1 visa status are eligible to work off campus only after obtaining specific employment authorization from the International Student Office. Permission to engage in off-campus employment must be obtained in advance of beginning employment, even if it is for purposes of fulfilling an internship requirement!

In order to be employed, a student must first obtain a social security number. International students are also required to file an individual income tax return. For more information on these topics and employment options for international students, we invite you to read through these pages. 

A good resource for students seeking jobs is DePaul's Career Center.  The Career Center helps students locate employment and internships and provides practical professional career counseling.  Be sure to visit the Career Center early on in your studies to explore your employment options after graduation.

You may also call the ISO at 312-362-8376 for any additional information, questions and/or advice.

Updated 04.2007