F-1 & J-1 Employment
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F-1 Employment
On-campus employment
Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
Off-campus practical training OR experiental learning for students who have not graduated
Types of CPT
- Required
- Optional or electives
- Part-time
- Full-time
Optional Practical Training
Off-campus employment in a job directly related to major or field of study available up to 12 months per degree level
Types of OPT
- Pre-completion
- Post-completion
F-1 OPT STEM Extension
24-month extension for eligble Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) majors after an authorized period of Post-Completion OPT
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J-1 Employment
On-campus employment that does NOT need to be related to the academic objective
J-1 Academic Training
Academic Training provides part-time practical experience on- or off-campus that directly relates to student’s field of study or major and may take place before or after completion of degree
Types of Acedemic Training:
- Pre-Completion Academic Training
- Post-Completion Academic Training
J-1 Academic Training STEM Extension
STEM Extension for students on Post-Completion Acedemic Training in a STEM program for up to 18 months
On-Campus Employment: Employment on the UW campus that provides service to students on-campus or employment at an off-campus location that is educationally affiliated with the univerisity
Off-Campus Employment: Work that takes place outside of the UW campus that is not affiliated with the university
For more information on international student employment, visit the International Student Services (ISS) site on F-1 AND J-1 COMPARISON.
International Student Employment FAQS
Fall & Spring Semester: 20 hours per week
Authorized vacation periods: over 20 hours per week
- Winter Break
- Spring Break
- Summer Break
On-campus employment includes work in student unions, libraries, recreational centers, and in academic and administrative departments on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus.
Visit the F-1 Employment Overview for a list of exhaustive approved locations, along with a list of locations that require authorization (non-exhaustive).
Terra Dotta is the online portal used to enhance the experience for UW’s international students, scholars, and employees. This program connects with UW’s Student Information System (SIS) and the U.S. DHS Student & Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). View your immigration records and communicate with ISS faculty and staff services about campus employment.
Visit International Student Services for more information.
Other International Student Employee Resources
ISS Advising
Get guidance on employment, visas, and academics through ISS advising! Check drop-in hours, book appointments, and find your assigned advisor based on your college, school, major, or degree level.
Career Planning and Exploration
Planning your post-grad path? Visit ISS’s Career Planning site to connect with your career office, prep with SuccessWorks’ tips for international students, and explore global opportunities in 121+ locations through GoinGlobal.
Networking
Boost your network as an international student! Connect with local residents via Madison Friends of International Students. Explore SuccessWorks' tips on career fair conversations & employer questions about sponsorships.
Financial Resources
Are you looking for further support with your finances as an international student? Explore Special Student Relief, U.S. ICE Emergent Circumstances, and ISS’s Financial Hardship Resources to find guidance and options tailored to your situation.
Community Resources
Become a Global Badger! Apply for the Global Badger Experience Grant to fund your RSO’s global engagement. Join the Practicing English & Cultural Exchange gathering or the International Peer Mentor Program to build connections and make friends.
Legal and Safety Information
International students at UW can access legal and safety resources through International Student Services, including immigration guidance, health support, campus safety tips, and a comprehensive resource guide for informed living.
