On-Campus and Off-Campus Employment - International Students

International Students

On-Campus and Off-Campus Employment

Before beginning any employment you must receive approval from your Designated School Official (DSO). It is recommended that you make an appointment 1-2 weeks in advance.

If you change employers or terminate your employment with an employer you must notify your DSO.

When you begin work, you and your employer must complete a form entitled "Employment Eligibility Verification" (INS Form I-9), which the employer retains. The I-9 must be updated each time you receive a renewal of your work permission. You can obtain Form I-9 from the Forms page, Citizenship and Immigration Services Web site.

Working improperly or without authorization is a serious violation of your F-1 status. You should consult your DSO if you have any questions regarding employment. It is your responsibility to comply with all Immigration regulations which apply to F-1 students. If you fail to comply with your responsibilities, you may not be eligible for benefits normally granted to F-1 students.

On-Campus Employment

There are few opportunities for on campus employment at Western University.

On-campus employment is limited to 20 hours per week while school is in session. Full-time employment is permitted during official school breaks (i.e., when school is not in session) and during the student's annual vacation. Students must be pursuing a full course of study, or, if employed during annual vacation, intend to register for the next academic term.

You must make an appointment with your DSO before you begin any employment.

Off-Campus Employment

There are two types of practical training: Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) before completion of studies and after completion of studies. Click the links to learn more about these options.

Social Security Number

A Social Security number is only assigned to F-1 students who are authorized to work in the United States. Social Security numbers are used to report your wages to the government and determine eligibility for Social Security benefits.

Social Security numbers are not required to conduct business with a bank, register for school or apply for educational tests, obtain private health insurance, apply for school lunch programs or apply for subsidized housing.

Your Designated School Official (DSO) can help you get a Social Security number if you are eligible for employment. Once we have determined that you are authorized to work, we will prepare a letter of support for you to take to Social Security.

To apply for a Social Security number you must provide original documents showing your age, identity, immigration status and a letter verifying that you are eligible to work along with a completed Form SS-5, Application for a Social Security Card. The application can be completed at the Social Security Administration Office or you can download the form from the SSA's Social Security Forms page.

For additional information you can visit a local Social Security Office, visit the Social Security Administration Web site or call toll-free 1-800-772-1213.

The Social Security Office in Pomona is located at 960 W. Mission Blvd., Office hours are Monday to Friday 9:00AM - 4:00 PM.

Last Updated:05/09/2008

Tell a Friend

On-Campus Employment

Off-Campus Employment

Social Security Number