Work and Study Policy for International Students at VACU

1. Introduction Virginia Christian University (VACU) is committed to supporting international students in their academic and professional development. This policy outlines the regulations governing employment opportunities for international students while ensuring compliance with U.S. immigration laws and maintaining academic excellence.

2. Eligibility for Employment International students at VACU must hold valid F-1 or J-1 visas to be eligible for work opportunities. Employment options vary based on visa type and university policies. Students must maintain full-time enrollment and satisfactory academic progress to be eligible for work-study opportunities.

3. On-Campus Employment International students on F-1 visas may work on campus. The following conditions apply:

• Students may work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions.
• Employment opportunities include positions in the library, administrative offices, cafeteria, and research departments.

4. Off-Campus Employment VACU does not provide Curricular Practical Training (CPT). Off-campus employment is strictly regulated, and unauthorized employment will result in immediate termination of visa status.

a. Optional Practical Training (OPT)

• Provides up to 12 months of employment authorization per academic level.
• Post-completion OPT must begin within 60 days of program completion, and students must not exceed this timeframe.
• Requires explicit approval from USCIS, with strict adherence to application deadlines.
• Employment must be directly related to the student’s field of study and must be reported to the university’s Designated School Official (DSO) within 10 days of any changes.
• Failure to maintain employment or report changes may result in termination of visa status.

b. Severe Economic Hardship

• Available to students experiencing financial difficulties beyond their control.
• Must demonstrate proof of economic hardship and apply for USCIS authorization.

5. J-1 Visa Employment Regulations Students on J-1 visas may work under the following conditions:

• Must receive written authorization from the Responsible Officer (RO) of their exchange program.
• Work is limited to 20 hours per week during academic sessions.
• Academic Training (AT) allows employment related to the student’s field of study for up to 18 months post-graduation.

6. Application and Approval Process

• Students must submit an employment request to the main office.
• Required documentation includes a valid visa, proof of enrollment, job offer letter, and necessary authorization forms.
• Students must comply with tax regulations and obtain an SSN before beginning employment.

7. Academic Performance and Work Balance VACU prioritizes students’ academic success. Students must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 (undergraduate) or 3.0 (graduate) to remain eligible for employment. Those facing academic difficulties may be required to reduce or cease work commitments.

8. Violation of Work Policies Engaging in unauthorized employment may result in the following penalties:

• Termination of employment authorization.
• Visa status violation, leading to possible deportation.
• Disciplinary actions, including academic probation or dismissal.

VACU encourages international students to gain valuable work experience while adhering to legal and academic requirements. This policy ensures compliance with immigration laws while promoting academic excellence and career growth.