To qualify for Economic Hardship Work Authorization, F-1 students must meet the following conditions:

• Valid F-1 Status for at least one academic year (two semesters).

• Good Academic Standing and enrolled full-time.

• Unforeseen Circumstances beyond the student's control: The financial hardship must be due to unforeseen circumstances such as loss of financial aid, unexpected medical bills, or substantial fluctuations in the value of their home country’s currency that occurred after the student’s arrival in the U.S. 

• Insufficient On-Campus Employment: On-campus employment opportunities must be unavailable or insufficient to meet the student’s financial needs.

• Acceptance of employment will not interfere with your full-time study.

Some examples of “unforeseen circumstances” include:

• Loss of financial aid or on-campus employment resulting from circumstances beyond the student’s control.

• Substantial fluctuations in the exchange rate or value of home country’s currency

• New laws that prohibit the export of currency from your country

• Unexpected medical bills

• Other substantial and unexpected expenses

Work Hours: Students can work up to 20 hours per week while school is in session and full-time during official school breaks.

Duration: Authorization is granted in one-year intervals and can be renewed as long as the student maintains F-1 status and good academic standing. The work authorization ends if the student transfers to another institution or completes or ends their academic program at ACU.

Job Type: The employment does not need to be related to the student’s field of study.

Note: This is a paper application to USCIS

1. Make an appointment to meet with the PDSO/DSO in the OISVS to explain your circumstances and discuss the process.

2. Write a personal statement which details the unforeseen hardship, discusses the on-campus jobs situation, and demonstrates how you plan to manage your financial and academic responsibilities. Additional details will be discussed in your appointment.

3. Documentation: Provide evidence of the economic hardship, such as medical bills, proof of currency devaluation, or letters detailing changes in financial support.

4. Prepare your most recent I-94 and a valid passport copy

5. Complete the OISVS request form here.

6. Complete USCIS Form I-765 and Form G-1145, and prepare the required fee (personal check is strongly recommended).

7. Visit the OSIVS to pick up your new I-20 and bring your forms and letters for review. The detailed list of all application documents will be provided at this appointment.

8. Submit the complete application package to USCIS.

USCIS processing times will vary, from 2-5 months. Students can renew this work authorization if they remain qualified. Renewal applications can be submitted up to 180 days prior to the EAD expiration. Economic Hardship Work Authorization provides a valuable lifeline for F-1 students in dire financial situations, helping them to continue their education without the overwhelming burden of unexpected financial stress.