The general purpose of the Exchange Visitor Program is to promote international education and cultural exchange to develop mutual understanding between the people of the United States and other countries.
- For more information on this program, we recommend you visit the J-1 Visa Exchange Visitor Program website.
- The U.S. Department of State has authorized Iowa State University to host J-1 research scholars, professors, short-term scholars, specialists and student interns.
- The U.S. Department of State offers a Welcome Brochure with important immigration requirements and regulations.
J-1 Exchange Visitor Categories
The J-1 Exchange Visitor has several categories. It is important to know which category you fall under as regulations vary slightly for each one.
Research Scholar
Conducting research, observing or consulting in connection with a research project. Must have the equivalent of a US bachelor’s degree. Duration of stay from three weeks to five years maximum. Individuals accepting tenure-track positions are not eligible for J-1 status.
Professors
Teaching, lecturing, observing, or consulting; may conduct research as a secondary activity. Must have the equivalent of a US bachelor’s degree. Duration of stay from three weeks to five years maximum. Again, tenure-track positions are not eligible for J-1 status.
Short-Term Scholars
Lecturing, observing, consulting, training, or demonstrating special skills. Must have the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree. Duration of stay from one day to six months.
Specialists
Expert in a field of specialized knowledge or skills who enters the US for the purpose of observing, consulting, or demonstrating special knowledge or skills. Duration of stay from three weeks to one year maximum.
This category
- cannot be used if the primary activity will be teaching, lecturing, or researching.
- is unique and rarely used, so ISSO must be consulted by ISU department ahead of time for approval.
Student Intern
Participant in a student internship program that will fulfill the educational objectives of a degree currently being completed at an educational institution outside the US. Bachelor's degree is not required. Duration of stay from three weeks to one year.
Student interns must
- Complete the internship before completion of their degree program outside the US.
- Return to their foreign university to resume their degree program upon completion of internship.