Overview of Student Visas
Which Visa do I Apply For?
A majority of international students attend USC on an F-1 visa, while a smaller number of students study on a J-1 visa. Please review the table below to determine which visa would be more appropriate for you.
| VISA TYPE | F-1 | J-1 |
| Document (provided by USC) for visa application | I-20 | DS-2019 |
| Funding | Private (personal or family) or organization/government. | Must be majority-sponsored by an organization/government. |
| On-Campus Employment | Part-time for 20 hours or less during the academic year; full-time during holiday breaks. | Part-time for 20 hours or less during the academic year. |
| Off-Campus Employment | May be eligible for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) pending approval from academic advisor.
Eligible for 12-month post-graduation Occupational Training (OPT). |
18-36 months of academic training post-graduation. |
| Dependents | Cannot seek employment; eligible to pursue part-time study. | Can apply for employment authorization; eligible to pursue full- or part-time study. |
| Medical Insurance | Not applicable | Required as per Department of State regulation. Visit OIS for more information. |
| Home Residency | Not applicable | Two-year home residency may be required, depending on funding source and skill. Visit J-1 Bars for more information. |