CISS

On-Campus Employment

International students in F-1/J-1 status are eligible to work on campus up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and full-time during vacation breaks (spring, summer, etc). New students must complete the SEVIS Immigration Registration to be eligible for on-campus employment. 

Common examples of employment that are NOT considered on-campus employment are:

  • A professor paying a student directly to help with a project/research
  • Tutoring outside of official Bentley tutor positions
  • Posting flyers or advertising for a non-Bentley affiliated company on campus
  • Remotely working from your on-campus residence for a non-Bentley affiliated company

This is not an exhaustive list.   For detailed information about student employment, go to the Student Financial Services website and review the Student Employment Manual. 

For F-1 Students: Follow the steps below to apply for an on-campus job and obtain a Social Security number.

For J-1 Students: Follow the steps below and apply for a J-1 On-Campus Employment Letter in the CISS Portal. J-1 students who are not sponsored by Bentley University must speak with their program sponsor regarding employment.

Step 1: Find an On-Campus Position

On-campus office jobs for international students generally become available approximately 2-3 months into the semester. International students are not eligible to apply for “Federal Work Study” jobs but are eligible to apply for jobs with businesses on campus that provide services to students, such as Dunkin' Donuts, the bookstore, and Sodexo dining services.

Visit the Student Financial Services website for more information.

Step 2: Apply for a Social Security Number

Once you have been offered a position, you will need a Social Security number. If you do not already have a Social Security number, you must apply for one.

Follow the instructions below:

  • Complete the "On-Campus Employment – Confirmation of Job Offer Form with your hiring supervisor and then have the form signed by a CISS staff member.  Electronic signatures are acceptable.
  • Visit the Social Security Administration (SSA) website for information on how to apply for a Social Security number.  
  • Complete the online application
  • Schedule an appointment at the nearest Social Security Administraion office within 45 calendar days to provide your documentation.
  • Present the following documents:
  • When you visit the Social Security Office in person to apply for an SSN, you will be given a receipt.
    • You may be able to begin working as soon as you have the receipt proving that you applied for an SSN.  
    • You may not be able to receive payment until you receive your SSN.
  • After the SSA verifies your document(s) and approves your application, you will receive your Social Security card in the mail within 14 business days.
  • When you receive your Social Security Card, review it for accuracy and sign it.

Remember to keep your SSN card in a safe place and to be cautious about who you share your Social Security number with.  For more information, visit the Social Security Administration website.

Important Note:   If you need to apply for an SSN when you first arrive in the U.S., you must wait at least 10 days after entering the country before you apply.  This time will allow your entry information to be processed in the Save System. 

Step 3: Complete the Student Employment Paperwork

Once you have your social security number, you can complete the University student employment paperwork in Workday. Go to the Student Financial Services website for more information.