Employment due to Economic Hardship​

There ar​e some guidance and details at https://www.ice.gov/sevis/employment​  Here is the list of information you should know before you reach out to your DSO and discuss about this option:​

     Examples of unforeseen circumstances:

  • Loss of financial support or on-campus employment
  • Substantial fluctuations in the value of currency or exchange rate
  • Inordinate increases in tuition and/or living costs
  • Unexpected changes in the financial condition of your source of support, such a loss of a family business
  • Excessive medical bills

​    Eligibility:

          (1) You have been in F-1 status for one full academic year;

          (2) You are in good standing as a student;

          (3) You are carrying a full course of study;

          (4) Acceptance of employment will not interfere with your carrying a full course of study;

          ​​(5) The employment is necessary to avoid severe economic hardship due to unforeseen circumstances beyond your control; and

          (6) On-campus employment is unavailable or is not sufficient to meet the needs that have arisen due to the unforeseen circumstances.​

    How to Apply:

  • Form I-765 (write (c)(3)(iii) in item 16)
  • Application fee​ (make your check or money order payable to U.S. Department of Homeland Security) and make sure to check the website above to see if the fee is changed.​
  • Photocopy of Form I-20, with your ISS adviser's recommendation for economic hardship employment
  • Two passport style photos (use pencil to lightly write  your SEVIS ID on the back)​
  • I-94 Admission Number print out from CBP​​
  • A letter describing your financial difficulties and why on-campus employment opportunities are unavailable or insufficient; include supporting evidence
  • Photocopy of passport identification page
  • Photocopy of visa page
  • Photocopies of any previously-issued EAD cards​

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