Frequently Asked Questions - Hiring & Payroll

You can request a Social Security Verification Form through iserp-hiring@columbia.edu, which you will need to apply for a Social Security Number.

Department: 

Where is ISERP located at?

You can find directions and a video here.

When will I get paid?

Please refer to the Columbia University payroll calendar, which you can find here.

What benefits does Columbia offer?

Here is an overview of Columbia’s extensive benefits for Officers, Postdocs and Support staff.

Can you help me find housing in New York?

ISERP has limited housing availability for postdoctoral employees, depending on availability. Please visit the following websites for more information on housing options:

CU - Off Campus Housing Assistance

Housing (incl Visiting Scholars)

Educational Housing Services

Manhattan Student Residence

Who can help me get a visa?

You will work with ISERP and the International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) to complete the visa application process.

Am I eligible for paid time off?

This depends on your title and employment status. You can refer to Columbia’s HR website for information on administrative titles, and to the Faculty Handbook for academic titles.

Who can I contact with questions about my paycheck?

The HR Service Desk can assist you at 212-851-2888.

Department: 

My Professor offered me a position, what’s next?

Please fill out the Hire Data Form for Candidates.

I was accepted for a position with the QMSS program. What’s next?

The QMSS Program Coordinator will work with you to assemble your appointment package. You can reach the QMSS Program Coordinator at qmss@columbia.edu.

What hiring documents do you need from me?

Please refer to the hire checklists for Department Research Assistants or Casual Employees. Depending on your position, we will need from you:

  • CV
  • Academic Profile
  • W-4 tax form
  • One of the following forms: IT2104 (NYS residents.), IT2104.1 (Non-residents), IT2104E: (Full-time students under the age of 25).
  • Voluntary Race & Ethnicity form
  • Inventions/ Patents Agreement I-9 Verification

International students, please also include:

  • Passport copy
  • Visa copy
  • Copy of DS-2019/ or I-20

Undergraduate students:

  • Casual Employment form
  • NYS Department of Labor form

When will I get paid?

Please refer to Columbia’s Payroll Calendar.

I don’t have a Social Security Number. How can I get one?

You can request a Social Security Verification Form through iserp-hiring@columbia.edu, which you will need to apply for a Social Security Number.

Who can help me get a visa?

The International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) can help you in the visa application process.

My visa will expire soon, what should I do?

You will need to work with the International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) and your home department if your visa needs to get extended. Please remember that you are not allowed to work on an expired visa!

How many hours per week can I work?

Full-time students can work for up to 20 hours per week. If you have multiple positions, make sure to not exceed this limit.

Can I extend my appointment?

If your PI would like to rehire you, s/he can complete the Hire Request form for PI’s, so we can initiate the process.

How do I complete an I-9?

See instructions here. The I-9 is completed in two parts. Part 1 may be completed online; part 2 must be completed in person at a designated I-9 service center. After you completed both parts, return the I-9 receipt to ISERP staff. Please do not begin work until your hire paperwork has been completed.

Do I need to be a full-time student to hold a position?

Yes, many appointment types require you to be a full-time student.

Can I work in multiple positions during a semester?

Student Officers of Research or Administration may only hold one such title at a time. Casuals may hold multiple positions concurrently, as long as these do not interfere with their academic commitment or pass the allowable threshold of 20 hrs/week. Additional restrictions may apply for international students.

I am not happy in my employment. What should I do?

Please always feel free to discuss your concerns with your PI, or ISERP staff to get some guidance on your options.

Do you offer internships for high school students?

Unfortunately, ISERP does not offer internships for high school students.

Department: 

You will need to work with the International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) and your home department if your visa needs to get extended. Please remember that you are not allowed to work on an expired visa!

Department: 

Please refer to Columbia’s Payroll Calendar.

Department: 

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