Educads

New York Student Work Rights 2026

New York international students on an F-1 visa can work on campus during study and apply for approved off-campus work after one academic year. After graduation, OPT can extend work in your field, with a longer option for STEM students.

F-1 visa holders may work on campus while studying. During the academic year, this is limited to 20 hours per week, and they can work full-time during breaks.

Off-campus work is possible after completing one academic year, but only with prior authorization. The approved routes mentioned are OPT and Curricular Practical Training (CPT), and students need to keep their F-1 status in good standing.

After graduation, students can apply for OPT to work in their field of study for up to 12 months. This is the main post-study work option for F-1 students.

Students in STEM fields can apply for a 24-month extension of OPT, which can bring total practical training to 36 months. The OPT application must be filed within the required post-completion time frame.

Universities in New York

CO Columbia University logo

Columbia University

New York, United States Β· Private University

β˜… 78 QS World #34 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
USD 56,000 – USD 76,000/yr
Founded
1754
CB CUNY Bernard M Baruch College logo

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, United States Β· Public University

β˜… 27 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
USD 15,414/yr
Founded
β€”
CC CUNY City College logo

CUNY City College

New York, United States Β· Public University

β˜… 27 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
USD 15,290/yr
Founded
β€”
CH CUNY Hunter College logo

CUNY Hunter College

New York, United States Β· Public University

β˜… 27 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
USD 15,332/yr
Founded
β€”
NS The New School logo

The New School

New York, United States Β· Private University

β˜… 27 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
USD 58,694/yr
Founded
β€”
TU Touro University logo

Touro University

New York, United States Β· Private University

β˜… 27 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
USD 22,450/yr
Founded
β€”

All universities in United States β†’

Questions about working & jobs in New York

Can F-1 students work while studying in New York?

Yes. F-1 students may work on campus during their studies, with 20 hours per week allowed during the academic year and full-time work during breaks.

Can students work off campus before graduating?

Yes, but only after completing one academic year and with prior authorization through OPT or CPT.

What happens to work rights after graduation?

Graduates can apply for OPT to work in their field for up to 12 months. STEM students may get a 24-month extension.

Other student cities in United States

Each one has its own guide to life, costs and working.

More on United States: destination overview Β· universities Β· scholarships Β· student visa

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