University of Southern California Office of International Services University of Southern California
USC Student Affairs

Who can pay J-1’s and how much do they need?

J-1’s are allowed to be paid from multiple sources including USC, the visitor’s home government, personal sources and private organizations. 

J-1’s are allowed to be USC employees, but CANNOT be in tenure-track positions.  This runs counter to their non-immigrant visa status.

Minimum funding levels are as follows:

J-1 scholar $18,000/year ($1,500/month)
J-2 spouse $7,000/year
J-2 child (under 21)          $3,500/year/child

These amounts hold true regardless of the Exchange Visitor’s role on campus or source of funding.  This minimum funding amount can be met through a combination of funding sources (ex: $1,200/month foreign government scholarship and $300/month personal funds).