J-1 On Campus Employment

Federal regulations require that J-1 exchange students obtain authorization in writing and in advance of their employment start date from their sponsor for all employment, including on-campus employment.

To be eligible for on-campus employment at Champlain College, a J-1 exchange student must be:

  1. In good academic standing by having a cumulative G.P.A of 2.0, and
  2. Engaged in a full course of study.

If approved by the A/RO, a J-1 exchange student may work no more than 20 hours per week while school is in session. If approved, during campus breaks and vacations, a J-1 exchange student may work up to 40 hours a week. At Champlain College, authorization for on-campus employment must be obtained every semester.

1. Find a job on campus.

2. Obtain an offer of employment.

Students should obtain an offer letter from their employer. 

The letter should be signed and appear on the College's letterhead.

The letter should include the following pieces of information:

  • Your Name and Student ID Number
  • Position Name
  • Office Offering the Position
  • Dates of hire
  • Address of office location
  • Hours per week

3. Make an appointment with your A/RO in the Office of International Student Services and complete an On-Campus Employment J Visa Authorization Form. This is a pink form and is not valid until it has been signed. While at OISS, your A/RO will report your on-campus employment in SEVIS. An updated DS-2019 will be printed for you to sign and keep with the rest of your documents.

4. Begin working if you already have a Social Security Number or apply for a Social Security Number with your A/RO.

If you are renewing your On-Campus Employment Authorization Form and already have your Social Security Number, you can begin working immediately.

If you have never worked in the US before, you will need to apply for a Social Security Number with your A/RO.