Navigating Research as an F-1 Undergraduate International Student at the University of Washington

F-1 international students at the University of Washington (UW) seeking to engage in research opportunities must navigate specific visa requirements and university protocols. Below is a guide to assist you in this endeavor. By following these guidelines, you can successfully balance your academic and research pursuits while maintaining your F-1 visa status at the University of Washington. 

Essential Resources at International Student Services (ISS) 

• ISS Website: Visit the International Student Services (ISS) page for detailed information on maintaining F-1 status, obtaining visa guidance, and accessing relevant workshops and events. 
• Advisory Services: ISS provides personalized advice on F-1 regulations, including program extensions, travel restrictions, and employment authorization. 
• Workshops and Updates: Attend ISS workshops for guidance on employment and other specialized topics.  

Maintaining F-1 Status while engaging in research  

Key Requirements 

• Full-Time Enrollment: Enroll in at least 12 credits during each academic quarter. 
• Address Updates: Update your local address in MyUW within 10 days of moving for a research internship. 
• Travel Signatures: Ensure your I-20 has a valid travel signature from ISS before any international travel related to your US-based research opportunity. 
• Stay informed about changes in immigration policies. 

On-Campus vs. Off-Campus Paid Research 

On-Campus Paid Research 

• Work Authorization: F-1 students are automatically authorized to work on-campus without additional permissions, provided they maintain valid F-1 status. 
• Employment Duration: During academic quarters, students can work up to 20 hours per week. During official school breaks and summer, students may work full-time (more than 20 hours per week). Please note that students who have additional on-campus employment should not exceed 20 hours per week total during academic quarters. 
• Finding Research Positions: On-campus research roles can be secured through university departments, research centers, the undergraduate research database and other job postings. These positions must be directly affiliated with UW. 

Application Process: 

1. Search for Opportunities: Explore research assistant positions within your department or at UW research centers. 
2. Apply: Submit your application and secure the position. 
3. Authorization/ISS Reporting?: No authorization or reporting to ISS is required for on-campus work. 

Off-Campus Paid Research 

• Work Authorization: CPT authorization or Pre-Completion OPT authorization is required for off-campus research roles, such as internships or practicum that are required or related to your curriculum. 
• Eligibility Criteria: Access this ISS page to review the eligibility criteria for the different off-campus work authorizations.  

For-Credit Research 

• Course Enrollment: Enroll in research credits as part of your academic program. 
• Credits: Conduct research under the supervision of a faculty mentor and receive academic credit. 
• Authorization/ISS Reporting?: No additional authorization/reporting is required for on-campus research work that is for-credit. If your research work or training is off-campus then authorization is required. Please contact the ISS office to discuss further.

Maintaining your F-1 status while conducting research at UW requires careful attention to visa regulations and university policies. By understanding the distinctions between on-campus and off-campus research, as well as the differing requirements during academic quarters and summer, you can ensure compliance and make the most of your research opportunities. 

For further assistance or inquiries, please contact ISS at iss@uw.edu or visit the ISS website or office at Schmitz Hall, Suite 459.