J-1 Exchange Visitors may receive funding from multiple sources, including USC, the visitor’s home government, the visitor’s home university, personal sources, and outside organizations.
J-1s are allowed to be USC employees, but cannot be in tenure-track positions, as this runs counter to their non-immigrant visa status.
Minimum Funding Levels
- J-1 Exchange Visitor $24,000/year ($2,000/month)*
- J-2 Dependent Spouse $14,253 for your spouse ($1087/month)*
- J-2 Dependent Child (under 21) $7,127/year per child ($594/month per child)*
*If you are a degree seeking student, please reference the yearly figures determined by the USC Financial Aid Office for Tuition & Living Expenses
What to submit for Proof of Funding Requirement
- If paid by USC: Invitation letter from USC
- If funded by outside organization or your home government: Letter which outlines funding amount and the duration of funding.
- If self-funded: Bank statement* or letter from the bank in the visitor’s name.
- Combination of Different Financial Sources: This minimum total funding amount may be met through a combination of funding sources indicated above.
Guidelines regarding bank statements & proof of funding letters
- If bank statement is not in English, provide a translation.
- Funding should be in U.S. dollars. If not, please attach a currency conversion print out.
- Must be readily available funds. Bank statement must show total balance of checking or savings account. (No investments, stocks, mutual funds, non-USC income letters, etc.)
- Must be no older than 3 months from date submitted.
- On-line bank statements must indicate the account holder and identify the type of account.
- Letter from Bank must be printed on bank stationary and signed.
- Non-USC income letters are not accepted
Note for J-1 Degree & Non-Degree Students & Degree Students at USC:
- Over 51% of funding must come from source other than personal funding for Non-Degree & Degree Students
- Exception: The 51% rule waived for direct exchange students (MOU with their university)