Employment in F-1 Status
With the following exceptions, students in the U.S. on an F-1 visa are not allowed to engage in business or accept official employment:
- on campus employment;
- practical training required for the attainment of the degree, also called Curricular Practical Training (click on "Practical Training" on the previous web page);
- Optional Practical Training (O.P.T.) directly related to the major area of study during or after the course of study authorized by the Department of Homeland Security - Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services (click on "Practical Training" on the previous web page);
- off campus work authorized by the Department of Homeland Security - Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services by reason of economic hardship.
On-campus employment for F-1 students does not need authorization. Initial entry students may begin on-campus employment no sooner than 30 days prior to start of classes. Students transferring from another school must wait until after a release date and after the student has reported to Calvin Seminary.
The economic hardship permit is only granted after an unexpected financial calamity of some kind. Application for these permits may only be made after one full academic year of studies. The appropriate forms for application are available from the assistant in the Dean of Students and International Student Advisor's office.