International students are permitted to work in the United States under three specific conditions:
• On- campus job: students are allowed to work for the institution where they attend classes up to 20 hours per week. International students do not qualify for federal financial aid and therefore cannot accept a work-study position. Common places where international students work at Canisius include the library, bookstore, athletics, and dining services.
• Curricular Practical Training (CPT): International students who wish to complete an internship off campus can apply for CPT. Canisius requires that international students receive course credit for internships. This means that an Associate Dean must sign off on their internships meeting the internship requirements for the student’s academic major. Not every department allows students to have an internship count toward their degree. Once the Associate Dean approves of the internship and the student has filled out the necessary paperwork, the Center for International Education will help process CPT paperwork and submit it to SEVIS and create a new I-20. The student is then welcome to work off campus for that internship.
• Optional Practical Training (OPT): In each student’s last semester, they are welcome to apply for OPT. OPT is a one-year temporary work authorization for F1 students. This allows individuals who graduate from U.S. colleges and universities gain practical experience in the US before they go back to their home countries. Canisius requires that international students attend an information session with ISP before they can apply.
HOW TO APPLY FOR SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER
In order to work in the U.S., you will need a Social Security Number.
To obtain one, you will have to document that you are eligible to work in the U.S.
• Secure your Employment Letter
• Request and collect a letter from DSO at International Student Office
• Complete your Social Security Number Application online and prepare your documents to take to the Social Security Office
• Locate and go to your Social Security Office to finish the application process