What Can International Students Do During Summer Break in the U.S.?

American summer breaks are long — typically mid-May through late August. For international students, those three months present both opportunities and restrictions you should plan for well in advance.

Option 1: Work an Internship (CPT)

The most valuable use of your summer is landing an internship in your field. To work off-campus, you'll need Curricular Practical Training (CPT) authorization from your school's international student office.

Requirements for CPT:

• You must have been enrolled full-time for one academic year (two semesters).
• The internship must be directly related to your major.
• Your school must approve it and update your I-20.

Start searching for summer internships in the fall or early winter. Many competitive programs have deadlines in September through January.

Option 2: Take Summer Classes

Summer courses let you get ahead on credits, take lighter course loads during the regular year, or explore elective subjects. Some international students use summer classes to graduate a semester early, saving thousands in tuition.

Option 3: On-Campus Employment

F-1 students can work on campus up to 40 hours per week during summer break without any special authorization. Campus jobs include library assistants, research assistants, dining hall workers, and administrative support. The pay is typically $10-$18/hour.

Option 4: Go Home

Many international students return home for the summer. If you plan to do this:

• Make sure your I-20 is valid and has a current travel signature (within the last year).
• Check that your visa stamp hasn't expired if you plan to re-enter the U.S. If it has, you'll need to apply for a new one before returning.
• Consider storing your belongings rather than shipping them back and forth.

Option 5: Travel Within the U.S.

Summer is a great time to explore America. Road trips, national parks, and city visits are affordable with planning. Keep your I-20, passport, and visa with you when traveling domestically, especially if traveling by air.

Option 6: Volunteer

F-1 students can volunteer as long as the work is truly unpaid and not displacing a paid worker. Volunteering can build your resume and community connections. However, be careful — "volunteering" at a for-profit company can be seen as unauthorized work.

What You Can't Do

• Work off-campus without authorization — No freelancing, gig work, or under-the-table jobs.
• Do nothing for too long — If you're not enrolled in summer classes and not working, be mindful of your visa status obligations.