Log on
Contact Us | Apply | Give a Gift | VU Home | Site Index | Text only
About VU Admission Academics Campus Life Athletics and Recreation Libraries Alumni and Friends of VU
You are exploring: VU > Student Life > International Students > Services and Programs  Print This Page
Employment

On Campus

Students are able to work on campus 20 hours per week during the semester and 40 hours per week during the break periods. Those who are tuition scholars or graduate assistances should contact the International Student Office BEFORE seeking additional positions on campus.

Off Campus

Please note: International students may NOT work off campus UNLESS they have authorization to do so. Authorization may be obtained through two (2) mechanisms:

  • Curricular Practical Training (CPT) In order to take advantage of this work authorization, the student’s department MUST have listed as part of the student’s curriculum the option to sign up for internship or practicum. If these are not listed as part of a student’s curriculum, the CPT is unavailable as an option to the student. Students should work closely with their faculty advisor if they plan to take advantage of CPT. The employment opportunity must be in the subject area of the degree sought from Villanova.
    In order to obtain a CPT qualified students should ensure:
    • They sign up for internship or practicum BEFORE the end of the add/drop period and print out the BANNER page
    • Obtain a formal letter from their employer stating the location where the employment will be performed and a description of the work
    • Make an appointment with the Foreign Student Advisor and bring the documents described above and his or her I-20. During this meeting the student will be given a new I-20 granting him or her the ability to work off campus.
  • Optional Practical Training (OPT) This is a benefit which is available to a student only after he or she has completed one (1) academic year at Villanova University. If the student qualifies, the employment must be in the field of study the student is presently enrolled in at Villanova. Students who believe they qualify for this benefit should contact the International Student Office. The International Student Office holds weekend workshops during the Fall and Spring semester on OPT. Graduating seniors are strongly encouraged to attend these weekend workshops. The workshops are announced in the International Student Office newsletter.