I’m from Oman and recently arrived in Washington, D.C., on an F-1 student visa to attend a university here. My program will last two years, but I was just offered a part-time paid internship with an international organization in the city. The role aligns perfectly with my field of study, but I’m worried because my visa says “no unauthorized employment.” I’ve heard about CPT and OPT, but I’m not sure if an internship like this is allowed while I’m still in school. How do I know if I can take this job without violating my visa status?

Question

Lalita Chakraborty · Accepted Answer

You can’t work off-campus on an F-1 visa without proper authorization, so you must first confirm eligibility for CPT or OPT through your school’s international office. They’ll help you determine if this internship qualifies.

Nkosinathi Ndlovu · Answer

You’ll likely need CPT authorization before starting, as OPT is usually for after graduation.

Mahboubeh Mahboubeh · Answer

On an F-1 visa, paid off-campus work during your studies generally requires Curricular Practical Training (CPT) authorization, which is granted by your Designated School Official (DSO) if the role is integral to your program. You’ll need to submit documentation showing how the internship relates to your coursework, and your school must issue an updated Form I-20 reflecting CPT approval.

Without this, accepting the internship could be considered unauthorized employment, risking your status. If the internship starts after your program ends, Optional Practical Training (OPT) might be more suitable. Always get official authorization before beginning any paid work.

Yaqoub Al-Khalili

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