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Economic Hardship Employment Authorization

What is Economic Hardship Employment Authorization?

If other employment opportunities are not available or are otherwise insufficient, an eligible F-1 student may request employment authorization based on severe economic hardship caused by unforeseen circumstances beyond the student's control, such as:
 
  • A loss of financial aid or on-campus employment without fault on the part of the student
  • Substantial fluctuations in the value of currency or exchange rate
  • Inordinate increases in tuition and /or living costs
  • Unexpected changes in the financial condition of the student's source of support, medical bills, or other substantial and unexpected expenses

Eligibility Criteria

  • You have been in F-1 status for one full academic year
  • You are in good academic standing and are taking a full course load
  • Employment will not interfere with your studies
  • You can demonstrate that the employment is necessary to avoid severe economic hardship due to unforeseen economic circumstances beyond your control
USCIS requires a $410 application fee and there is no guarantee of approval.

The exact application process is explained in the request form. Please start the form from the button below.