Employment
F-1 visa students have several options to participate in employment while studying in the United States. Please use the tabs under "Employment" to learn about:
- On Campus Employment
- Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
- Optional Practical Training (OPT)
- STEM OPT Extension
- Volunteering
- Summer Employment
- Completing your I-9
- Completing your W-4
- Severe Economic Hardship
F-1 visa students are responsible for avoiding illegal employment, such as: babysitting, off campus language tutoring, driver, photographer, food/retail services, making and selling products in person or online, or any service in exchange of goods (i.e. lawn care for free housing). If Wheaton College is not your employer (on campus work), you must talk to your DSO about all employment opportunities.
If a prospective employer (for CPT or OPT) has questions about hiring an F-1 student we suggest sharing this resource with them as it provides clear information and dispels myths that employers may have.
Finally, we encourage all F-1 visa students to utilize the resources of the Center for Vocation and Career (CVC) on campus. The staff of this office will advise you as you pursue employment opportunities and internships while connecting you to the information you need to know about applications, resumes, interviews, etc.