/Office of Global Affairs
Visa and Immigration Services

Hiring F-1 Students

You may hire F-1 students under specific types of work authorization that are built into their status. 

You must confirm the student’s work authorization before they begin employment and ensure all conditions are followed.

Types of Work Authorization

F-1 students may work under the following categories:

On-Campus Employment

On-campus employment allows students to work at Stony Brook or an approved affiliated location.

You must ensure:

  • The student works no more than 20 hours per week during the academic semester
  • The student may work full-time during official school breaks
  • The student is maintaining valid F-1 status

No additional authorization is required from VIS or USCIS.

Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

CPT is off-campus work authorization that is part of the student’s academic program.

You must:

  • Provide a detailed offer letter (job title, duties, location, start/end dates)
  • Ensure the work is directly related to the student’s major
  • Confirm the student has received CPT authorization on their Form I-20 before they begin work

The student cannot start working until CPT is approved.

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

OPT provides temporary work authorization for employment related to the student’s field of study.

You must:

  • Review the student’s Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
  • Confirm the employment start and end dates listed on the EAD
  • Ensure the job is directly related to the student’s major

The student cannot begin work until:

  • The EAD is issued, and
  • The authorized start date has been reached

STEM OPT Extension

Some students may qualify for a 24-month STEM OPT extension.

If you hire a student on STEM OPT, you must:

    • Be enrolled in E-Verify (Stony Brook State is not E-Verified; RF positions may be eligible)
    • Complete and sign a Form I-983 Training Plan
    • Report any material changes to the student’s employment

Your Responsibilities as a Department

You must:

  • Verify valid work authorization before employment begins
  • Follow all dates and conditions listed on the student’s authorization
  • Ensure the position aligns with the student’s field of study (for CPT and OPT)
  • Ensure the student does not exceed allowed work hours
  • Contact VIS before making any changes to employment

Unauthorized employment can result in serious immigration consequences for the student.

Timing and Processing

  • CPT: Typically processed within 1–2 weeks after all documents are submitted
  • OPT: May take several months for USCIS approval

You should plan ahead and allow enough time before the intended start date.

When to Contact VIS

You should contact VIS if:

  • You are unsure which work authorization applies
  • Employment details will change (duties, location, hours, or supervisor)
  • You plan to extend or continue employment

Early coordination helps prevent delays and compliance issues.

Important Reminder

You are responsible for ensuring that all employment is properly authorized and compliant. Always confirm work authorization before the student begins working.