F-1 students who find themselves faced with severe, unforeseen economic hardship and have been unable to find an on-campus job sufficient to meet their financial needs may apply to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for permission to accept off-campus employment. Examples of such situations include loss of financial aid or employment through no fault on the part of the student, severe fluctuations in the value of currency from his/her home country, unexpected changes in financial condition of the student’s source of support, medical bills, or other considerable unexpected expenses.

Employment authorization based on economic hardship is granted for one year and may be renewed for subsequent years. The authorization can be used for full-time summer work or part-time work (not more than 20 hours per week) during the academic year. Work accepted under this authorization may be unrelated to a student’s major area of study. Applications are processed through the USCIS Service Center in Lincoln, Nebraska and may take 6-8 weeks to process. You cannot begin working until you have received authorization from USCIS.

Students may wish to discuss their situation with an International Student Advisor prior to making the decision to apply for this type of employment authorization.

To be eligible for economic hardship employment authorization, you must:

1. Demonstrate that your current financial situation is severe, unforeseen, and beyond your control.
2. Have been a full-time student in F-1 status for at least one academic year.
3. Have a valid passport, I-94 card, and I-20.
4. Be currently enrolled in classes full-time unless it is a semester break.
5. Have a cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) and a previous semester GPA of at least 2.3 (undergraduates) or 3.0 (graduates).

TO APPLY:

1. Students applying for economic hardship work authorization must write a letter to the USCIS explaining their current situation and must provide proof that their current situation is severe, unforeseen, and beyond their control. Examples of such proof include news reports on economic strife in their home country, documentation of currency devaluation, statements from their sponsor, proof of tuition increases, and medical bills or doctor’s statements. Applicants may also want to include copies of current account statements demonstrating their need, if appropriate.
2. Make an appointment with an International Student Advisor by emailing intlaff@iupui.edu or calling 317.274.7000. Bring:

• Passport, I-94 card, and I-20.
• Copy of any previous employment authorization card(s) (EADs)
• Two photos taken within the past 30 days (refer to handout on photo requirements available from the Office of International Affairs)
• $340 check or money order payable to DHS.
• Your statement and proof of financial situation as described above.

You will receive additional advice and instructions at your appointment.