Employment with an International Organization

This F-1 employment benefit allows F-1 students to work for recognized international organizations within the meaning of the International Organization Immunities Act [59 Stat. 669]. A student is eligible as soon as they is in F-1 status – there is no waiting period. The work does not have to be related to a student’s course of study. Time approved by USCIS to work for an International Organization will not be deducted from your 12 month period of Optional Practical Training.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • The employment is for an internship with a recognized international organization and is within the scope of the organization’s sponsorship.
  • The student is in good academic standing.
  • The employment may constitute up to 20 hours per week when school is in session, or may be full-time during periods of recess.
  • Authorization is only available while student is in F-1 status, before completion of the academic program.

Application Process

  • Submit the offer letter from the International Organization to OGE as early as 90 days before you wish to begin employment. The letter needs to include the following details: (1) description of internship, (2) dates of employment, (3) place of employment and (4) number of hours per week.
  • OGE will review your request and issue a form I-20 with the recommendation for the employment on page 3 and guide you through the application process with USCIS.

Contact Us

Global Engagement Office

The Office of Global Engagement (OGE) is the university’s primary resource of services to all incoming and current F-1 and J-1 students. Besides assisting incoming students with their application process, we also support new and returning students with all their immigration questions. Hundreds of international students call Montclair State University home, join us to see why!

I-20 Team

Any questions related to the I-20 or change-of-status (prospective or accepted students)

International Recruitment Team

Prospective and admitted international students seeking information about Montclair State University, the application process, enrollment, and pre-arrival support.