Photo of a baobab tree

F-1 Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

Job Opportunities for International Students

At UMF, international students on F-1 or J-1 visas have the opportunity to work while studying, helping them gain valuable experience and earn extra income. On-campus jobs are available during the academic year (up to 20 hours per week) and during breaks (up to 40 hours per week). To start working on campus, you’ll need a UMF employment letter submitted to the Office of Global Education.

Off-campus jobs are possible too, but they require special approval and must be directly related to your field of study. Both the Office of Global Education and, in some cases, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services must authorize your employment. Since some approvals can take up to three months, it’s important to plan ahead and start early if you’re interested in working off campus.

Students having tea

Work While You Learn at UMF

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) lets you work off-campus in internships, practicums, student teaching, or field experiences that count toward your degree. You’ll need to earn academic credit and get approval from your advisor, plus have a job offer lined up—but it’s a great way to build your resume before you graduate.

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is your chance to work in your field of study after you earn your degree. You’ll apply to USCIS for an employment card that allows you to take on a job related to your major while still maintaining your F-1 status. Just don’t forget to keep the Office of International Programs updated with your job and contact info while on OPT.

It’s your path to career experience in the U.S.—so start planning early!

Make an Appointment
Farmington students cooking together in their dorm
Farmington students cooking together in their dorm

Turn Your Studies into Real-World Experience with J-1 Academic Training

If you’re a J-1 student at UMF, Academic Training (AT) is your ticket to gaining hands-on experience in your field—either while you’re still studying or right after you finish. Whether it’s an internship, job, or research opportunity, AT lets you apply what you’ve learned in the classroom to real-world situations.

To get started, you’ll need your academic advisor’s recommendation and supporting details like your employer’s info, the number of hours you’ll work, and how it fits with your studies.

Employment Resources

On-Campus

Student Employment
Student harvesting sunflower seeds

Off-Campus

Career Services

Questions? Contact us!

Office of Global Education
University of Maine at Farmington
106 Fusion Space
117 South Street
Farmington, Maine 04938
UMFGlobalEd@maine.edu