International Services

Employment and Training for F-1 Students

On Campus Employment

International Student Employment

International student employment is regulated by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Do not engage in any type of employment without first contacting the International Services Office. We will advise you on procedures, forms and filing deadlines for any of the approved employment categories. Generally, on campus employment is permitted for F-1 students within established guidelines. Off-campus employment is generally not permitted and there are penalties to any person and employer who engage in unauthorized employment.

Many international students are interested in working while studying, for experience, campus involvement and additional income. On-campus jobs generally pay a minimum wage and often provide excellent involvement with the university. Students can also gain valuable work experience and skills, and make contacts for future possibilities. Students may, or may not, be permitted to work (for which a student is paid), depending on his or her visa status. If you have a visa other than F-1, consult with ISO before seeking or accepting any employment. Under certain circumstances (i.e.: economic hardship), an F-1 student may apply to the USCIS for authorization to work off-campus. Application for this benefit must be made through the DSO, and the student will have to provide documentation for the need to work off campus. Additionally, F-1 students who have completed their degrees can apply for Optional Practical Training, a training/ employment experience in the student's field of study.

Campus jobs generally pay minimum wage or higher and often provide excellent involvement with the university. Students can also gain valuable work experience and skills.

· F-1 International Students are permitted by the Immigration and Naturalization Service to work under certain restrictions

· All employment must be authorized by the DSO in the International Services Office

· Only permitted while enrolled in full time course of study as F-1 student

· Can only work on the university campus or university affiliated employer approved by DSO

· Maximum 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions

· Maximum 40 hours per week during vacations and summer sessions

· Cannot displace a US student

· Must obtain a US Social Security number before employment (Applications are available in ISO)

· F-1 student may work on campus during the summer vacation if enrolled in previous term and intending to enroll in next term (fall) and has a valid I-20 from ISO for the fall term

If you are interested in working on-campus, please contact the office of Career Advising: http://studentservices.fgcu.edu/careers/oncampusjobs.htm

As you apply for jobs, inform your potential employer that as an international student you are eligible for employment and may need a few days to finalize the authorization from our office. Employers can contact us if they have questions.

For more information about working on campus click here: Information for On-Campus Employment.pdf (PDF)

Procedure to Secure On-Campus Employment

1. Secure an employment on campus and request a letter from your future employer stating that you have been offered a position on campus. The letter issued by the employing supervisor should include: position title, employing department, duties to be performed, starting employment date, and the number of weekly hours (not to exceed 20).

2. Request on-campus employment authorization from ISO. (Complete yellow service Request form: Select "On-Campus Employment authorization and "Social Security verification letter" if you do not have a U.S social security number. The DSO will verify your full-time enrollment at FGCU, and eligibility for employment and prepare the necessary documents for you.

3. Complete an "Application for a Social Security Card" (ISO has these applications or you can obtain it at the Social Security Administration Office or website).

4. Bring the two letters, your application, your passport* with Visa*, I-20* and I-94* to the nearest Social Security Office (See address below)

5. Follow your new employer's instructions to "sign-on" with the Human Resources Office. You will need to present your I-20 (authorized by the DSO), your Employment Authorization letter, Social Security Card and a completed copy of the Foreign National Information Form (FNIF) to Human Resources.

* Please retain these documents; do not submit to Social Security staff.

Off-Campus Employment

USCIS restricts employment off-campus for F-1 and J-1 students. F and J visa holders may not work at any time off-campus without official permission. Work includes performing any kind of services in exchange for compensation. Internships that provide room and board in exchange for services rendered fall into this category. If you, at any time, consider working off-campus, you must consult an International Student Advisor.

Students may apply for permission to work off-campus in the following circumstances:

Severe Economic Hardship (F-1 Student Off-Campus Employment)

Students in valid F-1 status are eligible to apply for Severe Economic Hardship provided that: (1) they are in good standing and are enrolled full-time; (2) they can demonstrate unforeseen economic hardship; (3) employment opportunities on campus are otherwise unavailable or insufficient; (4) they have been in F-1 status for 1 academic year; and (5) acceptance of employment will not interfere with the student's carrying a full course of study. Students are required to make a good faith effort in locating employment on campus before applying for employment based on severe economic hardship.

A request for employment authorization under this program must be presented first to the DSO at the International Services Office. Authorization for Severe Economic Hardship is granted by the U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (CIS, formerly Immigration & Nationalization Service (INS). Applications are submitted to USCIS in Mesquite Texas Service Center and may take up to 120 days to process. Since you must have the authorization before you begin working, be sure to apply well in advance. The U.S. CIS will issue you an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). The EAD is your photo identification card that indicates the dates you are authorized to work.

Students are limited to 20 hours of Severe Economic Hardship employment per week during school terms, but may work more than 20 hours per week during the summer term, and spring and winter breaks. Employment authorization will be granted in one-year intervals up to the expected date of completion of the student's course of study.

Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

For an off-campus work experience to be considered eligible for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) authorization, it must be an integral part of the degree program. Students must be in F-1 status for at least 2 semesters before they are eligible to work off-campus. Students can work as much as they want on CPT, but if they are authorized to work more than 12 months of full-time CPT, they are not eligible for OPT.

Students must have a job offer and letter of approval from their academic advisor and signature of approval from their College Division chair in order to be able to apply for CPT. The Office of International Education authorizes students to work on CPT. It may take up to 5 working days to process the authorization. Students will receive a new I-20 with the CPT authorization, which includes the employer's name and address and the dates of employment. Students can only work during the dates authorized on the I-20. The I-20 with the CPT authorization is proof of employment eligibility, which students need to show to their employer. More information about CPT can be found here: CPT Instructions and Request Form. (PDF)

The Curricular Practical Training Request Form can be found here: CPT Request Form (PDF)

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Optional Practical Training (OPT) gives F-1 students an opportunity for work experience in the U.S. before and/or after completion of a degree. It is limited to a total of 12 months for each higher degree level in a field directly related to your field of study. Students must be in F-1 status for at least 2 semesters before they are eligible to work off-campus. Unlike CPT, OPT does not have to be included as a required internship or practicum listed in your curriculum.

Students do not need a job offer to apply for OPT. OPT is recommended by an International Student Advisor in the Office of International Education, and approved by the USCIS (formerly INS). It takes 3-4 months for approval of OPT. Once approved, the student will receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card, with the dates the student is authorized to work marked on the card.

Please click here for more information about F-1 OPT Information Overview (PDF) Information on applying for the Optional Practical Training can be found here: Instructions on Applying for the Optional Practical Training (PDF)

Optional Practical Training (OPT) Approval and Student Responsibilities

OPT Approval Notification Process

Approximately 2 weeks after your OPT application is submitted by ISO to the USCIS, we receive a Notice of Receipt that provides an identifying number known as the application receipt number or SRC#. Our office will notify the student when this is received and provide a copy to them. Students may check the processing status of an OPT application via the USCIS Case Status On-line system, website: https://egov.immigration.gov/cris/jsps/index.jsp

When the OPT is approved, the Case Status will indicate the employment start date. You may begin employment based on the start date noted, even if you have not yet received an actual Employment Authorization Card. You may download a copy of this Case Status approval and provide it to your employer. Approximately 2-3 weeks after OPT is approved, the student's Employment Authorization Card will be sent to FGCU ISO. We will notify you to pick up this card which will show the beginning and end dates of your OPT. It also is a support document you will need for other purposes (ie: renewing drivers license, travel out of the US and re-entry, to present to your employer, and/or for other immigration benefits you may care to pursue).

Interviewing for jobs

Students may interview for jobs at anytime, however you may not begin employment until the start date of your authorized OPT. During initial interviews and application processes you do not necessarily need to share that you are on an F-1 visa and applying for your OPT. However, if an employer is interested in hiring you, advise them of your immigration status and the other conditions related to your student visa.

You can also check the OPT Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Please choose the relevant topic below to obtain more information:

When can I apply for OPT?

Do I need a job offer to apply for OPT?

If you plan to travel while on OPT (after you have graduated from FGCU) please note the following

I applied for OPT but will have to delay my graduation date. What do I do?

I am scheduled to start work very soon, but have not yet received my Employment Authorization

Document. Can I start work and get paid for that work at a later date?

Once I start working, will taxes be taken out of my paycheck?

What is the maximum amount of time that I may remain in the U.S. based on my post-completion practical training EAD?

When can I apply for OPT?

If you are completing your academic program, the earliest you can apply is 120 days prior to completion and the latest you can apply is the date of completion. The date you complete your studies may be different from your graduation date.

Do I need a job offer to apply for OPT?

No. A job offer is not a requirement for applying for OPT.

If you plan to travel while on OPT (after you have graduated from FGCU) please note the following

Visa:

If your F-1 visa stamp in your passport has expired, DO NOT make any travel plans without first speaking to the Coordinator of International Services at ISO.

I-20:
Get a travel signature on the third page of your I-20 from a Designated School Official at ISO.

Passport:
Make sure it is valid at least six months into the future.

Employment Authorization Document:

Take the card with you to show to the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) upon your return to the U.S. You will not be able to reenter the US without this card, so you should only plan to leave the US AFTER you have received it.

Letter from Employer:

It is recommended that you carry a letter from your employer stating your dates of employment, your job responsibilities, and the fact that you will return to the position.

I applied for OPT but will have to delay my graduation date. What do I do?

You cannot cancel or change your OPT application once you apply.

I am scheduled to start work very soon, but have not yet received my Employment Authorization Document. Can I start work and get paid for that work at a later date?

No. Working without a work permit is a severe violation of your legal status. If your EAD card does not arrive 90 days past the date on your Notice of Action, the ISO will to assist you in your situation.

Once I start working, will taxes be taken out of my paycheck?

There are three kinds of tax in the U.S.: federal, state, and Social Security/Medicare. You will have federal tax taken out of your check. Social Security/Medicare taxes should not be withheld while you are on OPT unless you are considered a resident alien for tax purposes. For further information please see IRS publication 519, Page 42, Chapter 8. IRS Publication 519 is available at:

http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p519.pdf and http://www.irs.gov/faqs/index.html

You can also see the IRS Frequently Asked Questions website or General Tax Information for International Students and Scholars

What is the maximum amount of time that I may remain in the U.S. based on my post-completion practical training EAD?

You may remain in the U.S. sixty days after the expiration of your EAD. This is a time for you to travel within the U.S., pack your things, relax, etc. You should not be working or studying during the sixty-day grace period.

Internships

What is an internship?

An internship is a work experience related to a student's major and/or career interest that takes place during a semester or in the summer. Typically students participate in projects or work alongside practicing professionals as they tackle special day-to day challenges. The beauty of an internship is that it allows students to implement their classroom learning in the world-of-work. Internship opportunities are available in the corporate and non-profit sectors and can be paid or unpaid. Employers offering internships are expected to have clearly articulated educational objectives. There are three different types of internships that the career center handles:

1. Not for academic credit - This is the most common type of internship. The internship is directly related to the student's major and is project related.

2. Required by the department, not for academic credit - The academic department will contact the employer regarding goals and procedures that are required.

3. For academic credit - The student and the internship provider will develop the specific structure of the internship before the internship begins. Then the academic department must approve the structure of the internship. The academic departments handle granting credit for an internship.

Why should I pursue an internship?

Employers are saying that good grades, summer job experience, and participation in student activities and organizations are not enough to help students land a good, full-time job. In today's competitive job market, students with career related work experience are the students who are getting the best interviews and job offers. As an added bonus, many companies hire their interns for full-time employment. Also, students that have career related experience often receive higher salaries.

Gain experience and exposure to an occupation or industry.
Explore opportunities in your major through a professional environment
Bridge classroom applications to the professional world
Network with professionals
Provides an opportunity for you to build your resume
Increases your marketability
Fulfill academic requirements and earn money (except for those who volunteer)

Who can utilize the internship program?

Anyone can register for the internship program. Generally, employers prefer rising sophomores, juniors, seniors, or graduate students.

Tips for getting ready for your internship:

You can get assistance with internships, your resume, cover letter and interviewing skills by making an appointment with a counselor in the Office of Career Development. Please contact them by calling: (239) 590-7946, or visit http://studentservices.fgcu.edu/careers/

Filing US Income Tax

The Office of International Services at FGCU provides resources and workshops to assist you with the filing of your Annual Income Tax Forms (Federal). All international students present in the U.S. must file an income tax form each year regardless if they were employed in the U.S. or not.

General Tax Information:

For a general introduction to taxes in the U.S. and tax form filing requirements, please attend one of the workshops the International Services Office organizes every Spring Semester, before April 15.

Workshops – The Office of International Services at FGCU places announcements for US Nonresident Tax Information Workshops every January. The ISO staff will give an in-depth explanation of Nonresident tax forms and tax treaties. Tax Forms and instructions will be provided at the workshops.

The workshops include: An overview of the US Tax requirements for non-residents, including information on how to determine if you are a resident or non-resident for US Tax purposes. Overview of the main forms used by international students and scholars. Information on Tax Treaties and Form. Resources for additional tax information and individual tax advising.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: These workshops do not constitute individual tax advising. All individuals are responsible for their own tax reports. Due to tax liabilities, workshops presenters cannot advise or answer questions regarding individual tax filing.

All international students in F status must file Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Form 8843. If there was income from a US source (including scholarships, fellowships, salaries, income on investments, as well as other types of income), you must file Form 8843 and a tax return on IRS Form 1040NR or 1040NR-EZ along with any corresponding schedules no later than April 15.

To file Form 1040NR or 1040NR-EZ, a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is required. Those who are ineligible for the SSN may request an ITIN by completing Form W-7 and mailing it as instructed on the form (Note: To file Form 8843 only, an SSN or ITIN is not needed). See Important information for those without social security numbers (SSN) for further instructions.

Failure to comply with IRS regulations can produce serious consequences. Even if no taxes are owed, it is required by law to comply with filing procedures. Penalties range from additional costs plus interest for any tax not paid to incarceration if convicted of tax fraud or evasion.

Reporting Requirements for Dependents

F-2, M-2, and J-2 dependents, regardless of age, are expected to file tax returns annually in the United States, even if they have no income from a U.S. source. In the case of F-2s and M-2s (who cannot work in the United States), the completion of a tax form is simple. A J-2 dependent, who may get permission to work in the United States, is taxed on his or her earnings.

US Social Security Tax

"Social Security tax" or "FICA". This is a taxation system that provides benefits to retired workers. Most international students do not have to pay this tax.

IRS International Tax Help Telephone Number: 215-516-2000 (not toll-free).

Information you will need for your taxes to be done:

1. Passport
2. Visa
3. I-94 Arrival/Departure Card
4. I-20 (for F1 students)
5. 6. Social Security Number OR Individual taxpayer identification number
6. W-2s
7. Form 1042-S
8. If you have OPT or CPT (and get paid) and you have Form I-766 or Form I-688B bring it to your scheduled time
9. Any other tax documents you may have received
10. Know the actual number of days you were in the U.S. for 2001, 2002, 2003 (if you have last years taxes you can get the 2001-2002 figures from there)

Information: Addresses, Phone Num bers, Websites and Resources

This website has tax information specific to tax issues for persons paid by the University. You can find this information at: http://www.ucop.edu/ucophome/policies/acctman/t-182-27.pdf

Windstar Technologies, Inc. (a commercial site) has useful articles and guidance for student and scholar tax responsibilities and tax filing. The articles on the linked page are freely available. Access to other resources on the web site require a subscription. Link: www.windstar-tech.com/public/articles.html

Tax publications and forms are available at Internal Revenue Service (Federal Taxes): www.irs.gov

Address for sending tax returns: IRS Center, Philadelphia, PA 19255-0607.

Toll-free IRS number: 1-800-829-1040 (live telephone assistance) or 1-800-829-4477 (recording).
This is a general number. Be sure to mention that you will be filing as foreign national.

Problem Resolution Program: 713-209-3660 (in Houston) or 1-877-777-4778.
See Publication 1546: See Publication 1546: How to Get Help with Unresolved Tax Problems.
http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p1546.pdf

Contact the IRS: http://www.irs.gov/contact/index.html

To order IRS forms: 1-800-TAX-FORM (1-800-829-3676)
Fax number for obtaining forms: (703) 368-9694. Please note that the call must be made from a telephone that is connected to a fax machine, and forms must be copied onto plain paper. Download IRS forms from http://www.irs.gov/formspub297144729297144729s/index.html

We recommend you order or download Publication 519: U.S. Tax Guide for Aliens, Publication 901: U.S. Tax Treaties which is available at http://www.irs.gov/publications/p519/index.html, and instructions for Forms 1040NR and 1040NR-EZ. If you will be claiming business expenses, child care expenses, or charitable contributions, ask for the appropriate forms which are also available at the IRS website.

Automated Refund Information: 1-800-829-4477.
Call if 8 weeks has gone by since you mailed your return and you expect a refund. Have a copy of your tax return

in hand. You will be asked to supply your SSN, filing status, as well as the exact amount of refund.

Tax Treaty Office: 202-874-1460

Helpful Websites: Guide for preparing Federal Tax Return for International Students, Scholars and Researchers.

http://www.irs.ustreas.gov/faqs/index.html (Scroll down to the link listed at category 13 for Aliens).

http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p678.pdf (An extensive document with good information).

http://www.windstar-tech.com/

http://www.nraware.com/app.htm (for a small fee this site offers software that can help you complete your tax return).

Important Information for Those Without Social Security Numbers (SSN)

In order to file a 1040NR or 1040NR-EZ, you must have a Social Security Number (SSN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you are on an F-1 status at FGCU and do not have a Social Security Number, contact the International Services Office at 590-7925 about making arrangements to apply for an ITIN as soon as possible.

Applying for a US Social Security Number

Procedure

6. In order to be eligible to obtain a US Social Security number, International Students need to first secure an employment on campus and request a letter from your future employer stating that you have been offered a position on campus. The letter issued by the employing supervisor should include: position title, employing department, duties to be performed, starting employment date, and the number of weekly hours (not to exceed 20).

7. Request on-campus employment authorization from ISO. (Complete yellow service Request form: Select "On-Campus Employment authorization and "Social Security verification letter" if you do not have a U.S social security number. The DSO will verify your full-time enrollment at FGCU, and eligibility for employment and prepare the necessary documents for you.

8. Complete an "Application for a Social Security Card" (ISO has these applications or you can obtain it at the Social Security Administration Office or website).

9. Bring the two letters, your application, your passport* with Visa*, I-20* and I-94* to the nearest Social Security Office (See addresses below)

Social Security Office, Naples Social Security Office, Fort Myers

3174 E. Tamiami Trail 10100 Deer Run Farms Road

Naples, FL 34112 Fort Myers 33912

TEL: (800) 772-1213 TEL: (800) 772-1213

Office hours: 8:30 AM TO 3:30 PM MONDAY – FRIDAY Office hours: 9:00 AM TO 4:00 PM

Please retain these documents; do not submit to Social Security staff.

If you are ineligible to obtain a US Social Security Number, and are receiving US income, scholarships or grants, you may apply for an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) in order to claim your benefits or file your Tax forms with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). See the Instructions regarding ITIN. http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fw7.pdf

Global Initiatives and International Services

Division of Student Affairs