Employment is defined as any type of work performed or service provided in exchange for money, tuition, fees, books, supplies, room, food, or other benefits. If a student does not receive any pay for work performed, this activity is not defined as "employment" but is considered to be "volunteer work." There are restrictions associated with volunteer work and all F-1 students should consult the Coordinator of International Student Services before accepting any employment or volunteer work in the United States. Employment for F-1 and J-1 students is very restricted and proper authorization is required.
F1 students are normally permitted to work ON CAMPUS subject to some restriction described below. F1 students may NOT work off-campus except in very specific circumstances. Do not take ANY off-campus job, internship, or assistantship without first consulting the International Student Advisor. You must be authorized for practical training for most off-campus employment, even if it is unpaid.
Work on campus is usually permissible if it meets certain requirements. Immigration regulations state that this employment is automatically authorized for any student in lawful F-1 status. Students should check with the Coordinator of International Student Services for school requirements and procedures governing the authorization of on-campus employment. Employment is limited to 20 hours per week except during vacation periods when a student may work full-time.
International students are not eligible to receive any federal monies; if for example, a summer science research project is funded by NSF (National Science Foundation), the student would NOT be able to be paid with NSF grant funds.
On-campus work performed is usually acceptable, whether it is employment in a student's academic department, the library, the computer center, or the housing office. Work required by a scholarship, fellowship, or assistantship is also acceptable.
Work performed on Hamilton College grounds or premises for an outside contractor or firm is considered to be on-campus employment as long as the employer provides direct services to students. The only outside contractor that hires students on this campus is Bon Appetit (Dining Services).
International students who are not in F-1 status (such as L-2s or H-2s) are covered by different regulations and may not be eligible to work in the US. Verify eligibility with the international student advisor prior to accepting any employment.
You should have a social security card from your previous employment. You may continue to work on campus at any job you find, provided that you do not exceed 20 hours per week during the semester. You may work up to 40 hours a week during vacations. You do not need to ask your supervisor for an offer letter. Any questions regarding on campus employment, whether from you or your supervisor, can be directed to Allen Harrison or Regina Johnson, 859-4022.
If you have any questions about the student employment process, wage level, forms, etc., please contact Human Resources at extension 4688 or email Michael Thayer.
If you have questions about obtaining a social security number, please contact the Office of the Dean of Students at extension 4013 or email Regina Johnson.
