Compare Student Visa Categories

For additional information on comparing these student visa categories, read the guidance below. You can also visit the US Department of State website.

F-1 students (Form I-20)

• No residency requirements for changing status to another visa category in the future
• Source of funding can come from any combination of sources
• Spouses and children (F-2 dependents) are not eligible for employment or full-time study
• Health insurance is not mandatory by government regulation, but is required by the University and is strongly recommended for all dependents
• SEVIS Fee is required for initial I-20 (not required for dependents)
• On-campus employment is automatically granted during the program
• Off-campus employment can be recommended; Optional Practical Training (OPT) can allow students 12 months (and possibly an additional 24 months for students in the STEM Fields) work authorization related to the field of study.

J-1 students (Form DS-2019)

• Potential 2-year home-residency requirement (for J-1 and dependents) before gaining eligibility to change or adjust visa status, including long term employment or permanent residency.
• Source of funding: Majority of funding must be from sources other than personal or family funds. Self-funded students are not eligible for the J-1 student visa.
• Spouses and children (J-2 dependents) are eligible to apply for work authorization, and may enroll in full or part-time study
• Health insurance is mandatory for J-1 students andJ-2 dependents
• SEVIS Fee is $220 and required for initial DS-2019 (not required for dependents)
• On-campus employment must be approved in advance by ISO or program sponsor
• Off-campus employment: Academic Training can be granted for up to 18 months’ work authorization (and a possible total of 36 months for Doctoral candidates), provided the work is related to the field of study and a job offer letter is available in advance