Definition
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On June 10, 1998, the USCIS implemented special regulations that will permit F-1 students whose financial support comes from Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines or Korea to apply for authorization. Special Student Relief, if granted, allows a student to work more than 20 hours per week while school is session and/or to be enrolled less than full time (6 units per quarter for undergraduates; 3 units per quarter for graduate students). Note that students may not be under-enrolled legally until after they have received formal Special Student Relief work authorization.
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Students must meet certain eligibility criteria and must formally apply following the procedures outlined below.
Eligibility
The student's financial support, as reflected on your visa document, must come from Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, or Thailand. The student:
- Must demonstrate severe economic hardship resulting from the economic crisis;
- Must have received the SCU issued visa document and engaged in studies prior to June 10, 1998;
- Must currently be in status and carrying a full course of study.
Length
Special relief will be authorized for a period of one year or until the expected date of program completion, whichever is shorter.
Procedure for Off-Campus Work Authorization
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Make a request in writing for Special Student Relief to the International Student Advisor explaining specifically how the Asian economic crisis has affected your home country source of support.
Complete Form I-765 (you can download the form at: http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/I-765.pdf ).
- Make an appointment to meet with the International Student Advisor in Drahmann Center and bring:
- A written statement about your home country support
- Completed I-765
- Original SCU issued visa document
- Two photos taken within 30 days, white background, three-quarter profile showing right ear, 1 1/2" to 2" square, name and I-94 number written lightly on the back
- Check or money order for $120.00 made payable to the "DHS".
The International Student Advisor will certify and obtain appropriate notarization on the I-538 and endorse your visa document. The application should be mailed through certified mail with a return receipt with the envelope clearly marked on the bottom right-hand side "SPECIAL STUDENT RELIEF" to:
USCIS Western Service Center
P.O. Box 10765
Laguna Niguel, CA 92607- 0765
Please Note:
- Make photocopies of all documents mailed to USCIS.
- See the SCU international student advisor immediately after you receive your EAD card authorizing Special Student Relief.
