F-1 and J-1 Employment Workshops are designed to answer questions and provide information for students who are interested in employment in the U.S.

Topics covered in the workshops include employment eligibility, application procedures, and the types of employment for which students are eligible. Attendance at an employment workshop is required for F-1 students applying for practical training and for any student who wants to participate in approved forms of off-campus employment.

There are different requirements and regulations for each visa type so please attend the workshop intended for you based upon which visa you have used to enter the country (F or J). 

"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 benefit.

Employment also includes work without pay if the job is one for which someone would normally be paid to do or one for which someone will be paid in the future.

The immigration service uses a broad definition for work because if you work for free in a job that is customarily paid you may be "displacing a U.S. worker".

Students or scholars with F-1 or J-1 visa status are invited to take advantage of the opportunity to supplement their classroom experiences and personal funds through employment. However, remember that your admission to the U.S. in J-1 or F-1 immigration status was to allow you to study, not work.Therefore, it is very important to obtain proper employment authorization BEFORE you begin working. Failure to do so will cause you to lose your immigration status.

Illegal employment is one of the most serious violations of U.S. immigration law. Never work without authorization.