Launch of New OIS System Impacts Document Processing Timelines

On March 20, 2023, the Office of International Services (OIS) will launch a new web-based case management system, Trojan International, which will improve how OIS serves students. This new system will provide international students and academic advisors with a web portal to submit and check the status of document requests. In preparation for Trojan International, OIS must…

DS-2019 Extensions for J-1 Non-Degree Students (NDS)

OIS Processing Time: 10 business days Extension Durations You may request an extension up to the maximum period of participation for your Exchange Visitor’s J-1 category: Non-Degree Student 2 years Application Requirements Workday Financial Management is the best resource for specific guidance on the new IR protocols. There’s helpful information on the Internal Requisitions Overview webpage, as well…

DS-2019 Application for J-1 Non-Degree Students

The DS-2019 is the “certificate of eligibility” for J-1 status. All Exchange Visitors must have this document to receive a J-1 visa. J-1 degree-seeking students receive the DS-2019 from the Office of Admissions with their admission letter or shortly thereafter. J-1 Non-Degree Students are issued DS-2019s by the Office of International Services at the sponsoring academic department’s request. Change…

Standard Leave of Absence (LOA)

updated 03/11/2024 Quick Navigation A standard leave of absence (LOA) is a temporary leave from the university, which may be necessary during the academic program due to personal or financial reasons. Students can also request a standard LOA due to health reasons if they are receiving medical treatment from outside the U.S. F-1 and J-1…

DHS Extends Existing Guidance for the 2021-2022 Academic Year

As USC plans for a return to campus for the Fall 2021 semester with primarily in-person classes, the Office of International Services (OIS) would like to share some information to help international students determine their academic plan. Please read the rest of this message carefully, as it contains important information pertaining to international student enrollment…

Sprintax TDS

Overview of SprintaxTDS Personal SprintaxTDS Personal is a software that can prepare your pre OPT/CPT tax documents for you. SprintaxTDS Personal can determine your residency for tax purposes, FICA exemption, tax treaty eligibility and generate the pre-employment tax forms that you need, such as the W-4, 8233, W8-BEN and more. Once your forms have been…

Safety Advisory: Scams

The USC Department of Public Safety has received reports from students, many of whom are international students, who were deceived into giving money to impostors posing as law enforcement officials or representatives of agencies such as the Social Security Administration, IRS, U.S. Customs, Citizenship and Immigration Services and Department of Homeland Security. Some impostors or…