Economic Hardship
What is Economic Hardship?
If severe economic hardship was caused by unforeseen circumstances beyond the student's control after the student's first year of study, the student may be eligible for Economic Hardship employment. The circumstances that cause the economic hardship may include a loss of financial aid or on-campus employment without fault on the part of the student, substantial fluctuations in the value of currency or exchange rate, inordinate increases in tuition and /or living costs, or unexpected changes in the financial condition of the student's source of support, medical bills, or other substantial and unexpected expenses.
Am I eligible to file?
You are eligible to file if you have been a full-time F-1 status student for at least one academic year, you are in good standing at Texas Wesleyan University, you are not able to meet your financial obligations due to unforeseen economic problems, and these problems were beyond your control.
If approved, this authorization allows you to work part-time off campus (up to 20 hours a week). Your employment may not interfere with your carrying a full course of study. You may apply for this type of work permission without a job offer. Even if you have a job offer, no letter from your employer is required for the application.
You may begin work only when you receive Form I-766, Employment Authorization Document, known as the EAD, from USCIS. EAD does not affect your ability later on for F-1 Optional Practical Training permission based on your program of study. USCIS authorizes economic hardship employment for one year at a time, or the program end-date, whichever is shorter.
When & Where do I file?
The process should only begin after you have looked on campus and have been unable to find work there. It is important that you discuss this with your International Student Advisor. Your application is filed with the International Programs Office.
What do I need to bring with me?
- A letter explaining the unforeseen circumstances beyond your control that have led to the need for employment. Explain why other employment options are unavailable or insufficient. Please state the approximate amount of money you need in order to meet your financial obligation. Bring financial backup documentation similar to that required for the I-20.
- I-765 form (part of application packet obtained at the International Programs Office).
- I-538 form (part of application packet)
- I-20 (original, no photocopies)
- $340.00 fee made payable to the Department of Homeland Security (check or money order only).
- Signature Card (part of application packet)
- 2 photocopies of the passport identification page (copy must show the photograph and the expiration date).
- 2 photocopies of your I-94 (both front and back pages).
- 2 ADIT style photos.
How will my application be processed?
Once these documents are received, your application will be reviewed by the International Student Advisor. If everything is acceptable, your application will be sent to USCIS (allow 3-4 working days for process). You should receive a receipt from USCIS within 4-6 weeks and a decision within 3-4 months. You can pick up your original I-20 in the International Programs Office (allow 3-4 working days after turning in your application).
