Student Visa Comparisons
There are different types of student visas designated for international students to study. Each has its own purpose, restrictions, and benefits.
Comparison Between F-1 and J-1 Status
View our comparison chart below on the differences between the F and J student visa.
| Characteristics | F-1 Students | J-1 Students |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | All full-time international students are eligible for an F-1 visa who are supported by personal/family funds, outside funds, or a combination of both. | Full-time students who are supported substantially (at least 51%) through funding from an outside source such as a scholarship, fellowship, or government sponsorship. |
| Earliest Entry Date | Enter 30-days before the program start date | Enter 30-days before the program start date |
| Grace Period | 60-day grace period at the end of the program | 30-day grace period at the end of the program |
| Home Residency Requirement | No home residency requirement | May be subject to 2 year home residency requirement |
| Employment | On-Campus Employment: Eligible to work 20 hours/week on-campus (40 hours during official school breaks) while remaining in F-1 status.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT): Employment off campus for eligible students pursuant to an internship requirement or internship elective for which the experience is an integral part of the established curriculum, the student is earning academic credit, and counted towards degree completion. Optional Practical Training (OPT): Employment off campus for eligible students directly related to the student’s major area of study, up to 12 months used before completing their academic studies (pre-completion) and/or after completing their academic studies (post-completion). |
On-Campus Employment: Eligible to work 20 hours/week on-campus (40 hours during official school breaks) while remaining in J-1 status.
Academic Training (AT): Employment 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. |
| Health Insurance | Federal regulations do not require F-1 students and their F-2 dependents to carry health insurance but Adelphi University requires all international students to enroll in the university’s health insurance plan. | J-1 students and their J-2 dependents are required to have comprehensive medical coverage mandated by J regulations. The student medical insurance provided by Adelphi University meets all the requirements. |
| Dependents | Dependents in F-2 status may study part-time and are not eligible for employment. | Dependents in J-2 status may study full-time and may apply for employment authorization. |