Working as an international student-athlete in the US: Rules and regulations
For many international students, studying in the US is an incredible opportunity. You get to pursue a high-level education, develop your athletic skills, and build a global network. However, many student-athletes wonder if they can also work during their studies to earn some extra money. The short answer is: yes, but there are strict rules.
As an international student-athlete on an F-1 student visa, you cannot just take any job. It is crucial to know the rules to avoid any issues with your visa status or your university.
Can you work on an F-1 student visa?
Yes, but only under specific conditions. During your first academic year, you are generally only allowed to work on your university’s campus. Working off-campus is prohibited unless you receive special authorization.
US universities and immigration services strictly enforce these regulations. Working without permission can result in the termination of your visa status, meaning you would have to leave the country.
On-Campus Employment
For most international student-athletes, an on-campus job is the easiest and safest way to earn extra income.
Popular on-campus jobs for athletes:
Working at the university library.
Assisting at the campus fitness center.
Working at the campus bookstore.
Employment at a campus dining hall or coffee shop.
Administrative support in an academic department.
Tutoring or peer mentoring other students.
Student assistant at athletic events.
- Cleaning facilities
How many hours can you work?
During the semester, you can work a maximum of 20 hours per week. During official school breaks (such as summer or winter vacation), you can often increase this up to 40 hours per week, depending on your university’s specific policies.
Balancing work and sports
As a college athlete, your schedule is demanding. Practices, weight training, games, travel, and classes take up a massive amount of your time. Because of this, most athletes choose a flexible on-campus job where the employer understands that your sport comes first.
Many coaches are supportive of student-athletes working a few hours a week, as long as it does not negatively impact your performance in the classroom or on the field.
How much can you earn?
Hourly wages vary by state and university. In most cases, pay ranges between $12 and $20 per hour, though certain specialized positions may pay more.
If you work 10 hours per week at a rate of $15 per hour, you will earn:
$150 a week
Approximately $600 per month
This can easily cover personal expenses such as:
groceries and dining out;
clothing;
your phone bill;
gas;
weekend trips with teammates.
Social Security Number (SSN) and taxes
To work legally in the US, you need a Social Security Number (SSN). You can only apply for this US government identification number once you have received an official on-campus job offer. Your university’s international office will help you navigate the application process.
Tax obligations for international students
International students are required to pay income tax on their US earnings. The university typically deducts this automatically from your paycheck. At the beginning of the following year, you will file a tax return, which often allows you to get a portion of that withheld tax back. Almost every university provides free software or workshops to help international students file their taxes.
Off-campus employment
Working off-campus is heavily restricted. You cannot simply apply for a job at a local restaurant, hotel, or retail store. Working off-campus is only permitted through specific programs that directly relate to your field of study:
Curricular Practical Training (CPT): Designed for internships or work experience that is a mandatory part of your degree program.
Optional Practical Training (OPT): Temporary employment directly related to your major, typically utilized immediately after graduation.
Can you make money from social media (NIL)?
Thanks to the US NIL (Name, Image & Likeness) rules, many student-athletes make money through their personal brand via platforms like TikTok, Instagram, or brand sponsorships.
However, for international students, this is much more complicated. US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) views ‘active promotion’ on US soil—such as filming or posting a sponsored video while physically in the US—as unauthorized off-campus employment. Earning NIL money is generally only permissible if the content is created and published while you are back home outside the US.
The golden rule: Never sign an NIL contract or post sponsored content without explicit approval from your university’s athletic compliance department.
Our tips for student-athletes
If you want to earn some extra money during your studies, keep these tips in mind:
Prioritize flexibility: Find an on-campus job that accommodates your training and game schedule.
Keep priorities straight: Your education and athletic commitments always come first.
Never work illegally: Do not take any risks with unauthorized off-campus work or under-the-table cash jobs.
Ask for guidance: The International Office and upperclassmen know exactly which campus jobs are the best to get.
For international college athletes, earning extra money while studying in the US is entirely possible. An on-campus job provides extra financial freedom, helps you meet new people, improves your English, and builds valuable work experience. As long as you follow your F-1 visa regulations, you can fully enjoy your American sports and academic journey.
Have specific questions about your F-1 visa or NIL deals?
The rules for international athletes in the US are strict and constantly changing. Are you unsure whether a specific job or social media deal is allowed? Send us a message, and we will help you figure it out.