International Students As Peer Tutors: Is It Lawful?

Abstract

Students enrolled in Principles of Accounting courses might require peer tutoring services.  Accounting Departments (schools) can assist these students by maintaining a list of students offering tutoring services for a fee.  The opportunity to be included in the list of tutors must be offered to all university students, both domestic and foreign.  Universities might be hesitant to maintain such a list in fear of a violation of employment and immigration laws of F-1 international students.  Failure to assist in locating tutors for Principles of Accounting students can be disadvantageous for students needing help, as well as for potential tutors who would welcome extra income and who can benefit from “teaching what they know.”  This paper discusses a system that universities can establish and manage where foreign students can serve as peer tutors and remain within legal requirements of campus employment.