Campus jobs · work readiness
Authorization first. Then Handshake.
On-campus, CPT, and OPT are different paths. Use this checklist so you do not promise an employer a start date your DSO has not approved.
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0/7 readiness checks
On-campus before off-campus dreams
A library job that is legal beats an Instagram “internship” that is not.
Unpaid “experience weeks,” off-campus gigs, and freelance work can still need authorization. When unsure, ask your DSO in writing before day one.
Work paths (in order)
Mark paths you have actually reviewed with ISSS or career services.
Step 1
On-campus employment
Library, dining, labs, department roles—usually the first legal paycheck.
- When
- After SEVIS activation / school check-in
- Limits
- Typically up to 20 hrs/week while classes are in session (confirm with DSO)
- Need
- School employment process; often supports an SSN letter later
Step 2
Handshake + career services
Find openings and résumé help—not work authorization by itself.
- When
- Register as soon as you have a school email
- Limits
- Board access ≠ permission to start a shift
- Need
- University Handshake login; career center appointment
Step 3
CPT (curricular internship)
Course-linked internship with DSO authorization on the I-20 before day one.
- When
- Plan one term ahead; after academic + DSO approval
- Limits
- 12 months full-time CPT can eliminate OPT—track PT vs FT
- Need
- Offer letter + CPT I-20 page before any “training week”
Step 4
OPT (+ STEM OPT later)
Post-completion work with an EAD—file in the USCIS window with your DSO.
- When
- Near graduation; meet DSO early
- Limits
- Unemployment day caps; STEM is a separate extension
- Need
- I-765 approval before start—filing is not authorization
Readiness checklist
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