On-Campus Employment

During your first year at Union, F-1 and J-1 students are limited to employment on campus and must be paid by Union College. All students who gain employment, whether on-campus or off, need to apply for a Social Security Number.

F-1 Students

F-1 students do not need separate authorization from International Advising to work on campus. The job does not need to be related to your major or field of study. First-Year international students may only work on campus during their first year.

J-1 Students

J-1 students must obtain authorization from their host academic department before beginning on-campus employment.

While school is in session, students may only work up to 20 hours per week total across all on-campus jobs. During school breaks, international students may work up to 40 hours per week total. Students may not work during Exam Week.

Work-study is based on financial need and is awarded as part of a student's financial aid package. Only students who have been awarded work-study may apply for positions designated as work-study positions. If you are not sure if you have been awarded work-study, contact the Financial Aid Office. Students who do not have a work-study award will only be able to see non-work study opportunities in Workday. Find more information about on-campus employment opportunities on the Student Employment page.

The Social Security Administration issues Social Security Numbers (SSNs) to all who are work-eligible as a way to identify participants, including taxpayers, in the federal government's social security program, which provides retirement and disability benefits to workers and their families. There is no charge for a Social Security number and card.

If you are going to work in the United States, either on-campus or off-campus you must obtain a Social Security Number and card. At Union College, international students can not work on-campus without a Social Security card on file in the Human Resources office. You must be in the U.S. for at least 10 days before applying for a Social Security Number.

Before you can begin working, you must complete the required employment process, which includes obtaining a Social Security Number and completing Union's employment and HR requirements. You may not begin working until you have obtained your SSN. If you have received a job offer and need to apply for a Social Security Number (SSN), contact International Advising to assist you in scheduling an appointment at the Social Security Office and to receive guidance on the application process.

• Apply for an eligible on-campus job

• Confirm your employment by completing the Evidence of On-Campus Employment Form, provided by International Advising; J-1 students also need a copy of their invitation and employment letter from their visa sponsor

• Complete the Social Security Number application process and make an appointment at the local Social Security Administration Office

• Attend your Social Security Administration appointment

• Wait to receive your Social Security card via mail

• Complete Union's new hire paperwork through Workday after you receive your SSN

• Complete the required in-person verification with Human Resources in CPH

• Receive confirmation that you are cleared to work

• Begin working only after completing all required steps

The Social Security Number and employment process can take several weeks. Plan accordingly and do not wait until the last minute to begin the process. If you have questions, please connect with the International Advising Office!