Leave of Absence

A leave of absence is required for any term of the Academic Year (summer terms excluded) for which a student does not wish to enroll in classes. International students on F-1 and J-1 visas must return to their home countries during the leave, unless they have been granted a medical leave of absence that has been approved through the Office of International Services. Therefore, students should consult with an OIS counselor when contemplating a leave of absence for a Medical Leave of Absence.

Students with multiple degree programs or majors should note that a leave of absence will not be granted from one degree program or plan at the University of Southern California in order to pursue another. Leaves will not be granted for more than one year at a time. A leave of absence from your program may not exceed a cumulative total of two years. See the University of Southern California Catalogue for additional information.  

Students in good academic standing may request a leave of absence from the Office of International Services. Leave of Absence Forms are available from the Office of International Services in Student Union Room 300. Students with Teaching Assistantships and Research Assistants should consult with their departments when contemplating taking a leave of absence to discuss the matter and learn whether they will still be offered a TA or RAship when they return to USC.

In order to return to USC after a leave of absence of over 5 months, it is necessary to obtain a new USC Form I-20. A student cannot use the previous Form I-20 as it is no longer valid. Please note that it is the student’s responsibility to contact OIS at least 2 months prior to returning to USC to request the new Form I-20. Please also be aware that it may be necessary to provide financial documentation demonstrating ability to pay tuition and living expenses for at least one academic year.

After a leave of absence of five months or more outside the United States the F-1 student must also pay the SEVIS fee and apply for a new F-1 visa, even though they may possess an unexpired visa. 

CIS regulations state that an International Student must be in F-1 status for a full academic year in order to be eligible for Optional Practical Training or Curricular Practical Training. Contact OIS immediately to discuss this requirement if you are taking a leave of absence of over 5 months in your final year at USC.