Hiring International Students at the University of Pennsylvania
Guidelines for Hiring International Scholars: Faculty, Researchers, Staff and Students
The University of Pennsylvania enrolls more than 2500 international students from over 125 countries in its undergraduate and graduate degree programs. In addition, more than 1000 international students a year are present on our campus in the English Language Program. Some of these students receive their support from their home governments, or are supported by personal and family funds. However, there are a number of international students who support themselves, either wholly or partially, through on-campus employment, either in the form of an assistantship or part-time employment.
On-Campus Employment
International students holding valid F-1 or J-1 students visas (J-1 status must be under the sponsorship of the University) may work on-campus with the appropriate authorization of ISSS. This employment must not interfere with their full-time academic program and must not displace a US worker.
On-campus employment is restricted to a maximum of 20 hours per week while classes are in session: full-time on-campus employment is permitted during vacation periods.
International students are eligible for any of the on-campus positions that are available to US students except work/study positions, and in rare instances where a research grant restricts employment to US citizens or permanent residents. Examples of on-campus positions held by international students include individuals employed as part-time employees in the library, dining service, and residential halls, as students working in the University's departments and research institutes, and those serving as residential advisors, such as graduate associates in the Penn's College Houses.
Practical or Academic Training
F-1 and J-1 students are permitted a period of practical work experience during or upon the completion of their degree programs; F-1 students are eligible for twelve months, J-1 students for eighteen. The University may offer a temporary position to persons who receive authorization for practical training from the school from which they have completed their degree, or their program sponsor in the case of J-1 students. Please consult with ISSS to determine whether the proper authorization has been granted.
Work Off-Campus
International students holding F-1 status may not work off-campus (including at other universities or colleges) except in certain circumstances which require formal recommendation or authorization by ISSS and USCIS. J-1 students may work off-campus with permission from their J-1 program sponsor, but only in instances where they can demonstrate there has been an unforeseen change in their financial circumstances. Students with questions about off-campus employment should be referred to ISSS.