Button Menu

Severe Economic Hardship

Severe Economic Hardship

If employment opportunities are unavailable or otherwise insufficient, eligible F-1 students may request work authorization based on “Severe Economic Hardship” caused by unforeseen circumstances beyond their control. 

On these rare occasions, regulations governing employment for international students allow them to apply to USCIS for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), authorizing them to work in the United States.

Examples of Unforeseen Circumstances:

  • Loss of financial support or on-campus employment

  • Substantial fluctuations in the value of the currency or exchange rate

  • Inordinate increases in tuition and/or living costs

  • Unexpected changes in the financial situation of your source of support, such the loss of a family business

  • Excessive medical bills

 

To apply, students must meet the following criteria:

  • You must have been in the United States for at least one full academic year

  • You must be in good academic standing.

  • You must prove to USCIS that employment is necessary due to severe economic hardship beyond your control that arose after obtaining your F-1 student status

  • You must document that on-campus employment opportunities are unavailable or insufficient to meet your financial needs. 

 

About the Authorized Employment

  • The employment authorized through a Severe Economic Hardship application is granted in increments of one year

  • The authorization allows you to work for any employer up to 20 hours per week while you are registered as a full-time student

  • The authorization allows you to work more than 20 hours per week during breaks

  • The authorization is automatically terminated if you graduate, fail to maintain status or transfer to another university

  • This authorization does not impact your ability to pursue OPT

 

How to Apply

  • Meet with a member of the ISA Staff: You must apply for the EAD from USCIS after a member of the ISA staff (a DSO) updates your SEVIS I-20 record with a recommendation

  • Gather the appropriate document to mail to USCIS: 

    • Complete form I-765 (obtained from the USCIS website)

    • 2 identical color passport-sized identity photos

    • The current, relevant filing fee to USCIS

    • The most recent I-20, showing the DSO recommendation for Severe Economic Hardship application

    • Copy of the I-94

    • Copy of the passport photo page

    • Copy of the visa

    • Copies of any previous EADs

    • A letter describing your financial difficulties and why on-campus employment opportunities are unavailable or insufficient; include supporting documentation

    • Refer to the USCIS website for instructions on where to mail your paper application

 

On receipt of the EAD, SEH-approved F-1 students are still limited to no more than 20 hours per week of employment while school is in session. Authorization may be obtained for full-time employment during school breaks.