Student Jobs in the USA
Explore part-time work opportunities, understand regulations, and learn how to balance employment with your studies in the USA.
Library Assistant
University Library
IT Helpdesk Support
Campus IT Services
Research Assistant
Biology Department
Content Creator
Digital Marketing Agency
Student Jobs in the USA
Find employment opportunities, understand work regulations, and balance academics with part-time work as an international student in the United States.
Work Regulations for International Students
Legal Right to Work
- On-campus employment limited to 20 hours per week during school sessions
- Full-time on-campus work permitted during breaks and vacations
- Off-campus work requires authorization through CPT, OPT, or severe economic hardship
- All employment must be authorized by a DSO and/or USCIS before work begins
- Work authorization depends on J-1 program category and DS-2019 requirements
- Most students can work on-campus up to 20 hours per week during school sessions
- Off-campus employment must be approved by program sponsor
- Academic training options available during or after completing the program
F-1 Work Authorization Types
Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
CPT allows F-1 students to gain work experience directly related to their field of study as part of their curriculum. It must be an integral part of an established curriculum and can be either required or optional for the degree program.
- Must complete one academic year before eligible (except when required by program)
- Authorized by your DSO (not USCIS)
- Can be part-time (≤20 hrs/week) or full-time
Optional Practical Training (OPT)
OPT provides F-1 students up to 12 months of work authorization to gain practical experience in their field of study. STEM majors may be eligible for an additional 24-month extension.
- Can be pre-completion, post-completion, or STEM extension
- Requires USCIS authorization and EAD card
- Limited unemployment periods allowed
Special Work Authorization Circumstances
F-1 students may apply for off-campus work authorization based on unforeseen economic hardship after completing one academic year. Circumstances may include loss of financial aid, currency devaluation, or unexpected medical expenses.
The U.S. government may authorize Special Student Relief for students from countries experiencing emergent circumstances like war, economic crisis, or natural disasters. SSR may relax certain employment restrictions.
Popular Job Opportunities for Students
The USA offers various employment opportunities for international students, from on-campus positions that don't require special authorization to off-campus roles through programs like CPT and OPT.
- University libraries: circulation desk, research assistance, shelving
- Dining services: food preparation, serving, cashier, catering
- Administrative offices: reception, data entry, clerical support
- Bookstores: sales associate, inventory management, customer service
Typical pay: $12-$17/hour
- Teaching Assistantships (TAs): leading discussion sections, grading
- Research Assistantships (RAs): data collection, lab work, analysis
- Tutoring services: subject-specific tutoring, writing center, math lab
- Department support: mentoring, event coordination, program assistance
Typical pay: $15-$25/hour or stipend-based
- Tech industry: software development, QA testing, data analysis
- Business roles: marketing, accounting, HR, consulting projects
- Healthcare: research positions, clinical assistance, lab work
- Engineering: design, prototyping, field work, technical support
Typical pay: $18-$45/hour depending on field
Remote Work Opportunities
- Content creation: blog writing, social media management, translation services
- Technical roles: web development, software testing, technical support
- Virtual assistance: administrative support, email management, research
- Tutoring and teaching: language instruction, academic subjects, test prep
Federal Work-Study Program
The Federal Work-Study (FWS) program provides part-time jobs for undergraduate and graduate students with financial need. While this program is primarily for U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens, some schools offer similar institutional work-study programs for international students.
Key Benefits
- Jobs are often on-campus and accommodate student schedules
- Many positions relate to your course of study or career goals
- Employment counts as student engagement, fostering integration
How to Access
- Inquire at your university's financial aid or international student office
- Check for institutional work programs specifically for international students
- Apply early as positions may be limited and competitive
Average Hourly Wages by Sector (USD)
The chart below shows typical hourly pay rates for student jobs across different sectors in the USA. Rates can vary based on location, experience, language skills, and specific employer policies.
Regional Wage Variations
New York, San Francisco, Boston, Seattle, Washington DC
Average wages typically 15-25% higher than national average
Chicago, Denver, Austin, Atlanta, Portland
Wages typically match the national average rates
Smaller cities and college towns in Midwest and South
Wages typically 10-20% lower than national average
Wage Insights
- Metropolitan areas like NYC, San Francisco, and Boston typically offer higher wages
- Specialized technical skills can command premium rates, especially in STEM fields
- On-campus jobs often pay around the federal/state minimum wage plus small premium
Understanding US Income Tax for International Students
International students in the USA must comply with tax regulations that differ from those for U.S. citizens. Understanding these requirements is essential for maintaining legal status and avoiding penalties.
Tax Filing Requirements
All international students must file at least one tax form each year, regardless of whether they earned income in the US:
- With US income: File Form 1040NR and Form 8843
- Without US income: File Form 8843 only
- Filing deadline is typically April 15th each year
Tax Filing Requirements
All international students must file at least one tax form each year, regardless of whether they earned income in the US:
- With US income: File Form 1040NR and Form 8843
- Without US income: File Form 8843 only
- Filing deadline is typically April 15th each year
Use the calculator below to estimate your take-home pay after taxes for part-time work in the USA. This is a simplified calculation and actual taxes may vary based on your specific situation, residency status, and applicable tax treaties.
Estimated Monthly Income:
Helpful Tax Resources
University Resources
Most universities provide tax assistance to international students through:
- Dedicated tax workshops for international students
- Tax preparation software subscriptions (e.g., Sprintax, GlacierTax)
- Individual tax consultations at international student offices
Online Resources
Reliable online resources for international student tax information:
- IRS Tax Guide for Aliens (Publication 519)
- IRS Foreign Students and Scholars page
- Tax treaty information on IRS.gov
How to Find Student Jobs in the USA
Finding your first job as an international student can be challenging, but the US offers numerous resources to help you start your job search and navigate work authorization requirements.
Career platform connecting students with employers, used by 900+ US universities. Many international-friendly employers post here.
Large job search engine with filters for international students. Search with terms like 'OPT' or 'international student'.
Professional networking platform with job board. Create a strong profile to attract recruiters and use student-focused filters.
Platform specifically designed for international students to find US employers open to hiring them.
University Career Centers
Offer job listings, resume help, interview prep, and specialized advisors for international students.
International Student Offices
Provide guidance on work authorization and often maintain databases of international-friendly employers.
On-Campus Job Fairs
Attend career fairs to meet employers face-to-face. Many universities host international student-specific fairs.
Alumni Networks
Connect with graduates from your university, especially those from your home country who now work in the US.
Effective Job Search Strategies
- Resume/CV: Use US format (1-page for undergrads), highlight relevant skills and coursework
- Cover letter: Customize for each position, focus on what you bring to employer
- Work authorization: Clearly state your status (F-1, J-1) and eligibility for CPT/OPT
- Informational interviews: Connect with professionals in your field for advice
- LinkedIn networking: Join university and industry groups, connect with alumni
- Campus events: Attend workshops, seminars, and guest speaker events in your field
- On-campus jobs: Apply early in semester, check postings weekly
- CPT/internships: Apply 3-4 months before desired start date
- OPT positions: Begin search 4-6 months before graduation
Common Challenges & Solutions
Work Authorization Confusion
Many employers are unfamiliar with F-1/J-1 work authorization processes and may hesitate to hire international students.
Solution:
Prepare a simple one-page explanation of your work authorization that explains CPT/OPT is work-authorized and requires no sponsorship from the employer.
Limited Network
As an international student, you likely have a smaller professional network in the US compared to domestic students.
Solution:
Focus on building relationships with professors, join student organizations, connect with alumni from your country, and attend networking events specifically for international students.
Balancing Work and Academic Success
Working while studying can enhance your US experience, but maintaining academic success remains your primary responsibility as an international student.
Use digital calendars and time-blocking techniques to schedule study time, work hours, and personal commitments. Treat study blocks as non-negotiable appointments.
Remember that for F-1/J-1 students, maintaining full-time enrollment and good academic standing is essential for visa status. Reduce work hours during exam periods.
Choose jobs that accommodate your academic schedule. On-campus positions often understand academic priorities better than off-campus employers.
Utilize university writing centers, tutoring services, and academic advisors. Many schools offer specific support for international students.
Week Planning for Success
Optimal Hours
- 10-15 hours/week:Ideal for most students in demanding programs
- 15-20 hours/week:Maximum recommended during semester (legal limit for on-campus jobs)
- 20+ hours/week:Only during official breaks and vacations
Scheduling Strategy
- Chunk work hours:Aim for 3-4 hour blocks rather than daily 1-hour shifts
- Buffer time:Leave 30+ minutes between work and classes for transitions
- Protected study days:Keep 1-2 days completely work-free for focused academics
Warning Signs
Consider reducing work hours if you experience:
- Falling grades or difficulty completing assignments
- Consistent exhaustion or stress-related health issues
- No time for social activities or personal care
"For international students, maintaining full-time enrollment and good academic standing is more than just smart—it's a visa requirement. Always prioritize your studies over work hours, especially during your first semester as you adjust to the US academic system."
Resume Format
Use US-style resume format with 1-page length focusing on skills and accomplishments.
Work Authorization
Clearly state your CPT/OPT eligibility on applications to clarify your status to employers.
Application Timing
Begin your job search early, at least 3-4 months before your intended start date.
Network Building
Connect with alumni from your university and professionals through LinkedIn and campus events.
Interview Prep
Practice with your university career center for US-style interviews and behavioral questions.
Negotiation Skills
Research typical wages for your position and location before discussing compensation.
- Always verify authorized work hours with your DSO or international student advisor
- Working beyond authorized hours can jeopardize your visa status and future US entry
- Maintain full-time enrollment status while working part-time during academic terms
- Keep all work authorization documentation in a secure, accessible location
Ready to Start Your US Student Job Search?
Balance your studies with valuable work experience to make the most of your time in the United States. Remember that as an international student, your primary purpose is education—but a part-time job can enhance your financial stability and professional development.
Confused About US Student Work Regulations?
Get clarity on visa work restrictions and find suitable part-time job opportunities alongside your studies.
Ask an Advisor