On-Campus Employment for J-1 Students
Employment includes any work or service you perform in exchange for compensation. Compensation may include money, tuition, fees, books, housing, or other benefits.
You must receive authorization from Visa and Immigration Services (VIS) before you begin any employment.
If you work without authorization, you may violate your J-1 status. This may affect your ability to remain in or return to the United States.
What qualifies as on-campus employment?
Not all jobs listed on Handshake or other job boards qualify as “on-campus employment” under J-1 regulations.
You should speak with your International Student Advisor before accepting any job offer to confirm that the position is eligible.
Employment directly with Stony Brook University
You are employed by Stony Brook University and work on campus.
Examples:
- Administrative offices
- Teaching or research assistant positions
- University libraries
Employment on campus for a commercial company
You work on campus for a company that provides services to students.
Examples:
- Campus dining locations (such as Starbucks or dining halls)
- Other campus-based service providers
Employment at an approved off-campus location
You may work off campus only if the position is formally connected to Stony Brook University.
The employment must:
- Be part of your academic program or curriculum, or
- Be part of an approved research or academic partnership
Examples:
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
- Brookhaven National Laboratory
If you are unsure whether a position qualifies, contact VIS before you begin working.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for on-campus employment, you must:
- Be enrolled full-time
- Receive authorization from VIS
- Have a passport valid for at least 6 months into the future
Work Hour Limits
You may work:
- Up to 20 hours per week during the fall and spring semesters
- Full-time (21–29 hours per week) during official school breaks (summer, winter, and spring break)
How to Apply for Authorization
After you receive a job offer, follow these steps:
Complete the J-1 On-Campus Employment request in accessVIS.
Upload your offer letter. The letter must:
- Be on official letterhead
- Include your start date
- Include your job title and description
- Include your supervisor’s name
After you submit your request, your employer will receive an email to confirm your employment details.
VIS will review your request. If approved:
- You will receive an email notification
- Your authorization letter will be issued
Processing time is typically 5–7 business days.
You must wait for approval before you begin working.