Economic Hardship Eligibility Screening for F-1 Students
Carefully read the instructions below, then use the button at the bottom of this page to start your Economic Hardship Eligibility Screening.
Overview
To be eligible, the student must:
- Be in valid F1 status for at least one academic year (two semesters)
- Be in good academic standing and register for a full course load
- Provide evidence of economic hardship based on unforeseen circumstances beyond the student’s control
- Demonstrate that on-campus employment is either unavailable or insufficient to meet needs
The regulations offer examples of unforeseen circumstances that may cause economic hardship, including significant fluctuations in the value of currency or exchange rates, inordinate increases in tuition and/or living costs, unexpected changes in the financial condition of a student’s sponsor, medical bills, or other substantial and unexpected expenses.
Employment is limited to no more than 20 hours per week when school is in session, full-time during holidays or vacation periods. Employment authorization is automatically terminated when a student fails to maintain status. Students may work for an employer at any job, anywhere in the United States. A job offer is NOT required before obtaining an employment authorization (EAD) card from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
For more information, visit our Employment Due to Economic Hardship website.