Off-campus employment authorization is available to J-1 students who are facing severe economic hardship due to an unforeseen change in their financial circumstances.

Students wishing such authorization should consult with an J-1 advisor to submit the J-1 Student Employment Request form along with documentation of the unforeseen change in economic circumstances. OIS will evaluate the application and issue written employment authorization.

Students may use this authorization to work up to 20 hours a week when classes are in session and 40 hours a week during winter and summer breaks. However, this limit is cumulative of all types of J-1 student employment including assistantship and other on-campus employment combined. Receiving this type of employment authorization does not affect eligibility for Academic Training.

Eligibility Requirements

Students must have completed one academic year in J-1 status at USC and maintain a full-course of study. Students are encouraged to try to find employment on campus before applying for this type of off campus employment authorization. Students must have documentation of the unforeseen change in financial circumstances that necessitates the off-campus employment.

To begin the application process, students must consult with a J-1 advisor.