J-1 and F-1 Visas: What Is the Difference?

	F-1 Visa	J-1 Visa
Source of Funding	Supported by personal/family funds, outside funds, or a combination of both	More than 50% of funding is from an outside source such as a scholarship, fellowship, or government sponsorship
Proof of Funding	Student must show URI and the U.S. consulate proof of sufficient funding for his or her first year of study	Student must show URI and the U.S. consulate proof of sufficient funding for the entire duration of his or her her academic program
Off-Campus Employment	Two types of employment authorization available for students who have completed one academic year of full-time enrollment in the U.S.: Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for working off campus during studies. This work authorization is approved one semester at a time. Optional Practical Training (OPT) for working off campus, usually after the completion of studies. This is a 12 month work authorization. Student in STEM fields may be authorized for an additional 24 months.	One type of employment authorization is available for students on a J-1 visa. Academic Training (AT) authorization allows students to work off campus during studies or after the completion of studies. This work authorization is for up to 18 months or the length of study in the program, whichever is shorter. PhD students may be authorized for an additional 18 months. The length of approved AT is equal to the length of time spent studying in the U.S.
Dependents	Dependents in F-1 status may study part time and are not eligible for employment.	Dependents in J-1 status may study full time and may apply for employment authorization.

Department of State: F-1 Visa Information

Department of State: J-1 Visa information

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Office of International Students and Scholars
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