International students holding F-1 status at the University of North Texas enjoy the possibility of earning income while studying, but the privilege comes with precise regulations. Understanding these rules is essential to avoid immigration violations and to make the most of the campus labor market. This guide walks you through who may work, where the work can be performed, and how many hours are permitted during different academic periods.
Eligibility and full-time enrollment requirements
To qualify for any form of on-campus employment a student must maintain a valid F-1 visa and be enrolled as a full-time student during the fall and spring semesters. Full-time status means registering for at least 12 credit hours for undergraduate programs, 9 credit hours for graduate studies, or 3 credit hours for dissertation work. The university counts these credits when confirming eligibility, and failure to meet the threshold immediately disqualifies a student from working on campus. Additionally, the student’s AUD (Admit Until Date) must be current; working after this date without a prior extension request is prohibited.
Beyond the credit requirement, students must also possess a Social Security Number (SSN) before commencing employment. Obtaining an SSN involves submitting the appropriate form to the Social Security Administration, and the university’s International Student Services (ISSS) can provide guidance. The SSN is not only a tax identifier but also a prerequisite for the employer’s I-9 verification which confirms legal work eligibility in the United States.
Where you can work and the 20-hour rule
All authorized positions must be directly employed by UNT. Acceptable workplaces include the Student Union, campus dining services, university libraries, the Pohl Recreational Center, academic and administrative departments, and any other university unit that lists the institution as the employer. Importantly, the 20-hour-per-week limit applies uniformly throughout the fall and spring terms, regardless of whether the role is a teaching assistantship, research assistantship, or any other on-campus job. No exemptions exist for graduate-level assistantships; the cap remains firm to protect the primary focus on academics.
During scheduled vacation periods—such as summer break or semester intersessions—students who are not enrolled in classes may increase their workload to a maximum of 40 hours per week. To be eligible for this expanded schedule, the student must have been full-time in the term preceding the break and must intend to register for the upcoming semester. Conversely, students who remain enrolled during the summer are still bound by the 20-hour limit and cannot switch to full-time work without violating their visa conditions.
Finding positions, special assistantships, and prohibited work
UNT posts hourly on-campus opportunities through the Handshake platform; students should create a profile, upload a resume, and apply directly to listed jobs. Note that international students are ineligible for FAFSA work-study programs, so those listings should be ignored. Positions such as teaching assistant (TA), research assistant (RA), or graduate assistant (GA) are typically not advertised on Handshake. Students interested in these roles should contact their academic department directly to inquire about availability and application procedures.
Working off-campus without explicit authorization is strictly forbidden and may result in loss of F-1 status. Any off-campus employment requires prior approval from ISSS and, in many cases, a separate work permit. Until such permission is granted, students must limit their activities to the on-campus positions described above, ensuring full compliance with immigration regulations.
