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Working for International Organization

According to , F-1 students are eligible to participate in an internship with a designated international organization if the internship is, “With a recognized international organization within the meaning of the 59 Stat. 669, International Organization Immunities Act, (see )” and, “Within the scope of the organization's sponsorship.”

International Organization work authorization is recommended by OIP, and approved by USCIS. USCIS requires a filing fee to process the application. Because they require government approval, applications take several months for processing, and students may not begin working before approval.

Students should contact an OIP advisor for further discussion if they think they may qualify. NOTE: Part-Time Border Commuters are not eligible to apply.

Working because of Severe Economic Hardship

In extremely rare cases, F-1 students may apply for off-campus work authorization based on Severe Economic Hardship.
Students should contact an OIP advisor for further discussion if they think they may qualify. NOTE: Part-Time Border Commuters are not eligible to apply.

Severe Economic Hardship is recommended by OIP, and approved by USCIS. USCIS requires a filing fee to process the application. Because they require government approval, applications take several months for processing, and students may not begin working before approval. Therefore, this is not a good option for students who need immediate relief.

Even if the student appears to meet all conditions, USCIS may still deny the request, and the student will not receive a refund of the filing fee.

Students must meet the following conditions to apply:

• You have been in F-1 status for one full academic year (two full semesters);
• You are in good academic standing; and
• You are enrolled in a full course of study;

Students must be able to provide evidence that:

• The employment will not interfere with your studies;
• On-campus employment is unavailable or insufficient to meet your needs; and
• The employment is necessary to avoid severe economic hardship due to unforeseen circumstances beyond your control, such as:
  • You lost financial aid or on-campus employment through no fault of your own;
  • There were substantial changes in the exchange rate or value of your home country’s currency;
  • Extraordinary increases in tuition or living costs;
  • Unexpected changes to your financial support; or
  • Unexpected medical bills.

If approved, students may work off campus at any employer up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session, and full time during school breaks and summer.