I’m from Kenya and recently moved to Vermont on an F-1 student visa to study environmental science. My program requires a field research trip in New Hampshire for two weeks, and my professor suggested I could get paid a small stipend for helping with data collection. I’m aware that my visa has work restrictions, but this opportunity is related to my studies and seems educational. I’m worried that accepting payment, even for something academic, could cause visa problems. Would this be considered unauthorized work, or does it fall under allowed on-campus or practical training rules? What’s the safest way forward?

Question

Jibril Elmi · Accepted Answer

If the payment is from your school and tied directly to your academic program, it might be considered on-campus employment. But you’ll need confirmation from your Designated School Official first.

Saowalak Suwannarat · Answer

Under an F-1 visa, you can usually only work on-campus or through approved programs like CPT or OPT. A paid research trip off-campus may require CPT authorization. Talk to your DSO before accepting the stipend to avoid violating your status.

Marzanna Kowalska · Answer

Your F-1 status is strict about off-campus work, even if it’s related to your studies. Since the trip is in another state and involves payment, you’ll likely need CPT approval before participating. Your DSO can process the authorization quickly if it meets the criteria. Without that, accepting payment could be seen as unauthorized employment. It’s always safer to get written approval before starting.

Mukami Wangari

Stay Updated