Economic hardship is considered to be unexpected extenuating financial circumstances beyond the control of a student on an F1 visa. 

In order to be eligible for employment based on severe economic hardship, you must:

• Be a valid F-1 status-holder for at least one academic year (nine months)
• Be in good academic standing, and enrolled in a full course load
• Be able to provide evidence of unforeseen economic hardship caused by circumstances beyond your control
• Show that on-campus employment is either unavailable or insufficient
• Guarantee that employment will not interfere with your studies

To gain work authorization due to economic hardship, you must first apply for an “employment authorization document” (EAD). You can do this with the help and guidance of your school’s International Student Office. They will be able to help you with the forms and documents you need. You will also need to supply two photos of yourself, and pay a fee of $410 USD.

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