In general, neither F, J, or M visas allow students to work while they are in the U.S. except for special circumstances. Spouses on a derivative F-2 visa also cannot work while in the U.S. F-1 students can work at their university on campus "incident to status," and does not require prior authorization from USCIS. This work is limited to 20 hours per week while school is in session, but can be full-time during official school breaks.