Working in the U.S. 

Did you know that your student visa provides some work eligibility benefits? 

That's right, during your time as an international Gaucho at UCSB, you will have opportunities to work in the U.S. More specifically, you'll have the chance to apply what you've learned in the classroom in the workplace. 

We encourage you to take advantage of these work benefits and resources. This is an opportunity to gain marketable skills, boost your resume, and gain exposure to career development. 

Give yourself the permission to dream big, Gauchos! 

Allowable Employment

Both F-1 and J-1 student visa holders are able to work on-campus and off-campus. However, it is very important that you know when either type of work is allowed, and whether or not you need prior authorization from OISS.

It is always best to check with your assigned OISS advisor whether or not you are eligible for a specific type of employment or job offer, and whether or not you need to be authorized, before you start working. In general, F-1 students are allowed to work On Campus (with UCSB as your employer) without prior authorization, while J-1 students must receive prior authorization before working On Campus. Again, J-1 students cannot start working on campus without first receiving authorization from the OISS. In addition, both F-1 and J-1 students must receive prior authorization before starting an off campus position. Do not start working at any position off campus until you have received authorization from the OISS.

If you are experiencing any financial difficulty during your time as a Gaucho, please do not hesitate to contact OISS. We may have some sources of support for you. Please do not accept employment without checking first to see if you are eligible.

Be sure to read the full policy on different allowable employment options by clicking one of the buttons below. When you begin your studies at UCSB, you are expected to understand the employment regulations pertaining to your visa type. 

F-1 Employment PageJ-1 Employment Page

 

ATTENTION: J-1 Students (Time-Sensitive)

All J-1 students who have on campus employment (e.g. Teaching Assistantship, Research Assistantship, any position that is paid by UCSB) must have an approved On Campus Employment authorization before beginning work. This may mean submitting your On Campus Employment authorization application on UCSBGlobal over the summer, before the academic quarter begins. Be sure to read the full On Campus Employment page here. 

Career Services

UC Santa Barbara Career Services will serve as your main career development resource during your time as a Gaucho - they provide resources for alumni as well! 

Check out their website, career.ucsb.edu, which features over 500 pages of personalized career tips! 

From this site, you can do things like:

  • Submit your resume, CV, or cover letter for document review
  • Meet with a Career Counselor 
  • Log into Handshake to search jobs, internships, and virtual events
  • Explore many other services offered

In addition, Career Services offers an International Student page as well as GoinGlobal, a platform for your international job hunting!