The F-1 and J-1 student visas allow on-campus work only for up to 20 hours during the fall and spring semesters and up to 40 hours during summer and other school breaks.  Off-campus work is permitted only when a student has applied for and been approved for off-campus work authorization.

CAUTION: Any kind of off-campus work that is done without approved employment authorization is illegal and is a violation of your F-1 or J-1 immigration status.  This must be reported in the SEVIS database through which your immigration status, including work benefits, will be ended.  There is no flexibility in this regulation. 

If you need assistance in determining if a job opportunity is legal, please e-mail intlprog@sc.edu or set up an appointment with an international student advisor by calling (803) 777-7461.

To remain eligible for on-campus employment as an F-1 or J-1 student,

• You must be in good academic standing with the university and be maintaining your immigration status.
• You must have a passport that is valid throughout the term of employment.
• Your I-20 or DS-2019 must not be expired and you must still be pursuing your degree.
• You must be enrolled in a minimum 6 hours if you are a graduate assistant, 9 hours if you are a graduate student, and 12 hours if you are an undergraduate. 
• Enrollment during summer terms is optional, but required if you are a new or transferring student beginning studies at USC.
• J-1 exchange visitors need a letter from their sponsor (if other than USC) authorizing the employment.

F-2 dependents are not eligible for on-campus or off-campus employment.  J-2 dependents must apply for work authorization from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and must be approved before the employment begins.

Driver’s License

Employment

Frequently Asked Questions
 

Job Search Preparation Skills Presentation

H-1B Presentation

F-1 Off-Campus Employment

J-1 Off-Campus Employment

Funding Information

USC Career Center