Once accepted to the University of Western California (UWC), students are issued either:

• I-20 Certificate of Eligibility → for applying to an F-1 Visa

• DS-2020 Certificate of Eligibility → for applying to a J-1 Visa

These documents are required when applying at a U.S. consulate or embassy for the respective non-immigrant visa.

. Visit the US State Departments website for more details.

Differences Between F-1 and J-1 Visas

Funding

• J-1 Students:

  • Must be substantially supported by external funding (not personal or family funds).

  • Must show sufficient funds to cover the entire duration of the program.

• F-1 Students:

  • No restrictions on funding sources.

  • Must demonstrate funding for the first year only, plus proof of continued financial ability.

Academic Issues

• J-1 Students:

  • Allowed to change to a higher degree level.

  • Cannot move from higher to lower degree, or from non-degree to degree.

  • Must remain in the same field of study as on their DS-2020.

• F-1 Students:

  • No restrictions on changing degrees or fields of study.

Employment

• J-1 Students:

  • Require authorization from their Responsible Officer (RO) or Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO) for all employment.

• F-1 Students:

  • Do not need authorization for on-campus employment.

  • For off-campus employment, require approval from either their Designated School Official (DSO) or U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS).

The Grace Period After Study Completion

• J-1 Students: 30 days

• F-1 Students: 60 days

Dependents

• J-2 Dependents:

  • May apply for work authorization

  • May pursue a degree

• F-1 Dependents:

  • Cannot work

  • Cannot pursue a degree

Two-Year Home Country Residency Requirement

• J-1 Students: Some are subject to the Two-Year Home Country Residency Requirement (see form below).

• F-1 Students: Not subject to this requirement.

Download: Two-Year Home Country Residency Requirement