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 that can be found here
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 earned the equivalent of a U.S. 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; also may conduct research as a secondary activity. Duration of stay from three weeks to five years maximum. Must have earned the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree. Individuals accepting tenure-track positions are not eligible for J-1 status.
Short-Term Scholars
Lecturing, observing, consulting, training, or demonstrating special skills. Duration of stay from one day to six months. Must have earned the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree.
Specialists
Expert in a field of specialized knowledge or skills who enters the United States for the purpose of observing, consulting, or demonstrating special knowledge or skills. This category may not be used if the primary activity will be teaching, lecturing, or researching. Duration of stay from three weeks to one year maximum. This category is unique and rarely used, so your Iowa State University host department must consult with ISSO to determine if it can be used.
Student Intern
Participant in a student internship program that will fulfill the educational objectives of a degree being completed at an educational institution outside the U.S. Duration of stay from three weeks to one year. Must be currently enrolled in a degree program in a country outside the U.S. that student will resume upon completion of internship. Bachelor's degree is not required.