IMMIGRATION INFORMATION

What are F & J visa holders required to do during their stay at Duquesne University ?

F and J visa holders are required to stay “in status.” Students must take full-time classes each semester. Any and all changes must be reported to the OIP including: address changes, major changes, lengths of program changes and completion of programs. Students traveling outside of the country should bring their documents to the OIP for signatures on their I-20 and DS-2019 to ensure easy entry back into the country.

U.S. State Department

U.S. Consulate Offices

What kinds of employment opportunities are there available for international students?

ALL EMPLOYMENT ISSUES SHOULD BE CLEARED BY THE OFFICE OF INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS.

There are several kinds of employment opportunities available for international students.

On-Campus Employment - Students on F-1 or J-1 visas are permitted to work on our campus. They can work in any part of the campus up to 20 hours per week while school is in session and 40 hours per week during vacations and breaks.

Curricular Practical Training – This is a form of internship that can be authorized by the international advisor for F-1 students who qualify for these internships through their departments. Students interested in curricular practical training should meet with the international advisor and discuss the possibility.

Optional Practical Training - Students who complete degrees at recognized universities in the United States are permitted the option of continuing their stay through a year of employment related to their field of study. The twelve months of employment is referred to as optional practical training or OPT. Applications and directions for applying for this type of training are available in the Office of International Programs.

Academic Training – Students who are studying with a J visa are permitted to work during or at the end of their program. The period of employment is called academic training and it is also authorized by the Office of International Programs.

IRS Website

What is a Social Security Number and how can I get one?

Only those students who have secured employment can get a social security number. A social security number is a nine-digit number that is issued by the U.S. government to its citizens and residents upon application. It is primarily used to track employment and taxes. Anyone who has secured employment must obtain a social security number. The OIP has a form which must be completed by OIP and by the employer. Students can then apply at the Social Security Administration (located at 915 Penn Avenue) bringing with them their passport, I-20 or DS-2019, university ID card, and I-94 form.

Social Security Administration Home Page