Supervisors usually prefer to hire students with time available in at least two- or three-hour blocks. The actual number of hours you work, however, will depend on your availability and the needs of your employer.
You may not work during scheduled class time.
You must take a half-hour unpaid break if working over 6 consecutive hours.
According to USCIS regulations, you may only work up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session. You may work more than 20 hours per week during vacation periods: winter intersession, spring break, and summer recess. Below is a quick guide for reference.Part-Time or Full-Time Hours
If you are a student in F-1 or J-1 immigration status, you are permitted to work on-campus:
Up to a maximum of 20 hours per week during semesters of required registration (Fall, Spring, and Summer if it is your final term).
Full-time (over 20 hours per week) during vacation periods (Winter Intersession, Spring Break, and Summer Break if you will return in the Fall Semester).
PhD students now receive 12 months of continuous stipend support reflecting 20 hours per week of work. PhD students should not work more than 20 hours per week even during University break periods. Their effort should be captured within their stipend and those 20 total hours of work.
If summer is your first or final semester, then it is not considered a vacation period for you and you can only be employed part-time.
Information related to the “Conditions of an International student’s work permissions,” can be found on ISSO’s website.
Additional Guidelines for Work Study Students
Working 8-12 hours a week, most students earn their full academic year Work-Study award.
You may not work more than 20 hours per week while classes are in session. More work hours are allowed during breaks. Further details can be found in Restrictions on Student Work Hours.
You may not earn more than your Work-Study award amount.
Caution: If you work extra hours during breaks, your Work-Study award may not last the entire year.
Determining Your Schedule
When you begin your job, discuss your schedule with your supervisor.
Your work hours will be based on workplace needs, your class schedule, and, if you have Work-Study, your Work-Study award amount.
Tip: At the beginning of each semester, look at your class syllabi and think about your schoolwork in relation to your work schedule. Let your supervisor know well in advance if you think you will need to take time off when you have tests scheduled or papers and projects due.
