This week's newsletter includes general information about employment options for international students. As always, if you have any general questions, you can contact our office by chat, phone, or email. If you have specific immigration questions, you can make an appointment with your ISSS adviser.
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At the beginning of each semester, students are often curious about employment options available to them. Please note that all F-1 students must first receive approval before beginning off-campus employment in the U.S. F-1 students should know the following about their options for employment:
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On-campus employment: All F-1 degree-seeking students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session. Eligible F-1 students should follow the steps listed on our web page when seeking on-campus employment. Learn more »
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Curricular Practical Training (CPT): If you're interested in gaining practical experience through an internship or job, consider applying for CPT. It is work authorization that is integrated into the curriculum of your program or major field of study. In order to apply, you need proof of your course or degree requirement, a CPT letter from the employer, and your academic adviser's recommendation. Learn more »
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Optional Practical Training (OPT): OPT is an off-campus work benefit for F-1 visa holders. Students have the option to apply for 12 months of work authorization during or after their studies. Students are required to complete the ISSS OPT canvas course before submitting their OPT request to ISSS. Learn more »
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J-1 students: Please note that J-1 students should check with their ISSS adviser or visa sponsor to determine their employment eligibility. Eligible J-1 students have two options to engage in employment — on-campus employment or academic training. Learn more »
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Job Search Dos & Don'ts: International Edition |
Which companies are actually hiring international students? How do you make your application stand out? Get your questions answered by experts working in the field and hear from our former ISA president, Anson Tan.
Watch the video »
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Working and Driving Workshop Recording
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Missed the Working and Driving Workshop? Students can view the recorded session to learn essential information about employment guidelines, driving requirements, and practical tips for managing work and transportation while at USF.
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Graduate Career Services Center Drop-In Hours and Workshop Series |
Graduate students can join virtual Drop-In Hours to get guidance on resumes, cover letters, interviews, and job search strategies. Sessions are held on Mondays from 12–1 p.m. PST and Tuesdays from 6–7 p.m. PST. This is open to students in the College of Arts & Sciences, School of Education, and School of Nursing and Health Professions. This is open to graduate students in the College of Arts & Sciences, School of Education, and School of Nursing and Health Professions.
For other events and workshops, check out the career services events page »
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Happy Black History Month! |
This February, and year-round, take time to honor and reflect upon the sacrifices, milestones, and achievements of the Black community in the U.S. and around the world.
Check out campus-wide events here. Open to the USF community.
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Wednesday, Feb. 11 | 6–7 p.m.
University Center Intercultural Center
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Let’s get crafty! Join the first Cafe International of the semester. Snacks, cozy vibes, & crafts galore! Open to USF students.
Learn more »
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F-1 Student to H-1B Worker Webinar |
Thursday, Feb. 12 | 10 a.m. PST
Online
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Join Interstride and the ISRC for a webinar guiding F-1 students through the H-1B process. Immigration attorneys will cover recent policy changes, OPT/STEM OPT timing, employer sponsorship, and practical strategies to plan your transition with confidence. This webinar is not affiliated with or sponsored by USF. Open to USF students.
Join here »
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Monday, March 2 | 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
UC 1st Floor Atrium
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Join USFCA Career Services for Resume Rush, where students can get one-on-one resume feedback and practical tips from career advisors. Whether you are applying for internships or jobs, this event will help you refine your resume and feel more confident in the application process. Open to USF students.
Learn more »
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| Tuesday, March 3 | 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.
McLaren Complex
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Connect with employers hiring USF students! Join the in-person Career and Internship Festival on Monday, March 3, 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. at McLaren Conference Center for networking, a free headshot, and prizes. Can’t attend? Join the virtual Job Fest on Handshake on Wednesday, March 4, 5–7 p.m. PDT. Open to USF students and employers.
Learn more »
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H-1B Workshop With David Gluckman |
Thursday, March 12 | 5:30 p.m.–6:30 p.m. Cowell 107
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Learn about your options to remain in the U.S. after completing your program of studies. An immigration attorney will provide an overview of employment opportunities for F-1 students, with a focus on the H-1B work visa and next steps after graduation. Open to USF students.
Register here »
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| Thursday, March 26 | 10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
Gleeson Plaza
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Take a break from academic stress! Join Health Promotion Services on Thursday, March 26, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Gleeson Plaza for pet therapy, massage, games, DIY activities, treats, and mental health resources. Open to the USF community.
Learn more »
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2026–2027 Housing Application |
The 2026–27 housing application is now live for all student classifications! Students can apply for housing by logging into USFRooms. For more information about housing please visit the Student Housing Website.
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Current Freshmen (Rising Second-Year Students): Housing is guaranteed as part of the two-year housing guarantee if a completed application is submitted on time. Deadline: March 1, 2026
- Incoming First-Year, Full-Time Undergraduates: Required to live on-campus for their first two semesters unless they live within 15 miles of campus. Deadline: May 8, 2026
- Incoming Transfer, Full-Time Undergraduates: Guaranteed on-campus housing for their first two semesters of enrollment. Deadline: June 10, 2026
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If you are requesting an immigration document or letter from our office, remember that requests are processed within 10 business days. Make sure you plan accordingly so you have enough time to receive your document before you need it. All ISSS requests should be submitted through the MyISSS student portal (log into your MyISSS account, go to Requests & Documents, and select the appropriate icon on the right side of the page). You can view our MyISSS Student Handbook for assistance with your submission.
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Click the Chat with ISSS button on the bottom, right corner of any ISSS web page, and the ISSS team can assist you with your inquiry.
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Our podcast focuses on mindfulness, diversity, and inclusion, featuring episodes that cover diverse topics. Subscribe for engaging narratives, consistent audio quality, and a cohesive visual identity, and join us in building a mindful and inclusive USF community.
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Want to submit content for future newsletters? For a student feature, fill out this form, and for all other contributions, email our office at isss@usfca.edu for more information.
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University of San Francisco | International Student and Scholar Services
2130 Fulton Street | San Francisco, CA 974117 US
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