Current ALI Students: Employment
San Diego State University

Work On-Campus

You must be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program to work for SDSU. ALI students can work for the other agencies on campus that are not paid through state funds. These agencies are:

Work Off-Campus

Full time F-1 students have two options to receive permission from INS to work off-Full time F-1 students have two options to receive permission from INS to work off-campus. The first option is called Economic Necessity and requires an unforeseen financial crisis. The second option is called Optional Practical Training (OPT) which is work experience in your field of study. Only students that complete one full academic year in a credit-bearing program are eligible for OPT. Meet with the ALI Immigration Advisor if you need more information.

More information:

Full time F-1 students are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week on campus while school is in session, and up to 40 hours per week during vacation periods. F-2 status holders are never eligible for employment authorization.

Social Security Number:

A social security number (SSN) is only issued to students that are working, or have been hired for employment. If you are hired and need an SSN, you employer should provide you with a support letter to take to the Social security office. You may also request a support letter or verification of enrollment from the ALI Office.