New COVID Testing Requirement for International Travel by Air to the U.S.

Effective December 6, 2021, air travelers flying to the U.S. are required to show documentation of a negative viral COVID test result taken within one day of their flight’s departure before boarding their flight. This new rule applies to all air travelers, regardless of nationality or vaccination status. This new rule applies to all travelers –…Continue Reading New COVID Testing Requirement for International Travel by Air to the U.S.

Superstitions From Around the World

You might have heard about the bad fortune that black cats can bring or the good luck that comes from finding a random penny. We asked USC international students about common superstitions held in their home countries and here’s what they shared: Written by: Tamara Amhaz, OIS Communications Editor, Master of Communication Management, USC Annenberg…Continue Reading Superstitions From Around the World

International Education Week

The Office of International Services celebrates International Education Week (IEW) from November 15-19, 2021. IEW is a joint initiative of the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education, through various events and programs around campus. Check out this flyer for more information about international events on campus this week….Continue Reading International Education Week

New Vaccination Requirement for Travel by Air to the U.S.

Effective November 8, 2021, adults traveling to the U.S. by air must provide proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 under a presidential proclamation issued on October 25, 2021. The new policy applies to all inbound, adult air travelers to the U.S. The policy also extends to those traveling from COVID-19 travel-restricted regions. Vaccination documentation will…Continue Reading New Vaccination Requirement for Travel by Air to the U.S.

Important OPT Information for Fall 2021 Graduates

As you prepare to apply for OPT with USCIS, OIS would like to clarify some frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding the OPT application process and filing Form I-765 with USCIS. Click here to review the OPT FAQs. For questions related to employment requirements while on OPT and other important FAQs, refer to the OPT Instructions….Continue Reading Important OPT Information for Fall 2021 Graduates

Celebrate Halloween in Los Angeles

Halloween in Los Angeles

Now that you know all about Halloween, check out our guide of things to do to celebrate the spooky season in Los Angeles! USC Events Tommy’s Place Trivia Night – Halloween and Horror Date: Wednesday, October 27, 2021 Location: Tommy’s Place Cost: Free Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM PST Details: Join Tommy’s Place at…Continue Reading Celebrate Halloween in Los Angeles

Community Safety Advisory: Burglary Prevention

For any campus emergency, call DPS

The Department of Public Safety (DPS) has received several reports of home burglaries where thieves have been able to enter students’ homes through unlocked doors. Some of these burglaries have happened while students were at home.  Please help DPS protect you and prevent burglaries by following the crime prevention tips below: Protect your home, apartment,…Continue Reading Community Safety Advisory: Burglary Prevention

Fall 2021 Graduates May Apply for OPT Up to 120 Days Before Program End Date

Fall 2021 Graduates can apply for OPT Starting August 17, 2021. Review the OPT Instructions to learn more!

Due to ongoing receipt notice processing delays, USCIS is allowing post-completion OPT applicants to file Form I-765 up to 120 days before their program end date. This additional time is applicable to post-completion OPT applications received by USCIS through October 31, 2021. For USC students, this means Fall 2021 graduates with a program end date…Continue Reading Fall 2021 Graduates May Apply for OPT Up to 120 Days Before Program End Date

COVID-19 Emergency Assistance for International Students

International students with financial need are eligible to receive emergency grants from the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF). Students must be enrolled in fall 2021 and complete an application demonstrating financial need to be eligible for an emergency grant.  Login to Scholarship Universe and complete the application for COVID-19 Emergency Assistance Fund – International Students. The deadline to apply for an emergency grant is September 17, 2021. USC is required to prioritize…Continue Reading COVID-19 Emergency Assistance for International Students