F-1 students may be eligible for internships and employment in the United States when permitted under federal immigration regulations and properly authorized. Receiving a job or internship offer does not automatically authorize an F-1 student to begin working.
Employment authorization requirements vary depending on the student’s status, academic program, and type of employment. Students must consult Cal State LA’s International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) and obtain any required authorization before beginning an internship, practical training experience, or other employment.
Students and employers should visit the ISSO Employment webpage for current information about Curricular Practical Training (CPT), Optional Practical Training (OPT), STEM OPT, and other F-1 employment options.
Important: CPT and other employment authorization rules may change. ISSO is the appropriate office for determining a student’s eligibility and processing employment authorization requests.