J-1 scholar immigration status is designated for individuals coming temporarily to the U.S. to exchange knowledge and skills. J-1 Exchange Visitors (EVs) fall into many categories. The U.S. Department of State (DOS) approved WashU to serve as a visa sponsor for these individuals.
The J-1 Exchange Visitor Program was developed to implement the Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act (Fulbright-Hayes Act) of 1961. The purpose is to increase mutual understanding between the U.S. and other countries through educational and cultural exchanges. A J-1 scholar must be engaged in exchange activities for their own benefit. J-1 immigration status is not intended for temporary work as the primary purpose. The sponsoring department should encourage the scholar to participate in cross-cultural activities on- and off-campus, in order for the scholar to gain the broadest exposure to American society and institutions.
WashU sponsorship of J-1
J-1 Exchange Visitors (EVs) use Form DS-2019, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) status, to apply for a J-1 visa stamp overseas. When OISS processes the DS-2019 for an exchange visitor in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), WashU acts as the J-1 visa sponsor.
Requirements for a J-1 EV position at WashU:
- The position must be supervised within the department.
- A minimum of a master’s degree is required (this applies to J-1 Research Scholars, Professors, and Specialists).
- The position should not be a regular staff role; technician or assistant-level positions are not suitable for a J-1 program.
- The position must not be tenure-track or tenured.
If you (as a department contact) or your department are requesting a J-1 for the first time, contact the Associate Director for Scholars for an introduction and a brief orientation of the process. J-1 EVs at WashU fall into several categories. Find information about J-1 categories on Overview of Scholar Status Options. Departments considering requesting a J-1 for an incoming scholar should be aware of the limitations on time and regulations affecting status.
J-1 categories
- J-1 Short-term Scholar
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For short-term visits (maximum 6 months) for research, teaching, lecturing, consulting, training, demonstrating special skills or other collaboration.
Scholar must possess at least a bachelor’s degree. For information on the application process, refer to the Application process: J-1 scholars section further down this page.
Note: If the department anticipates the possibility of extending the EV beyond 6 months, we do not recommend choosing this category as it cannot be extended past the maximum period.
- J-1 Research Scholar or Professor
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For longer visits (maximum 5 years, minimum 3 weeks) for research, teaching, lecturing or other collaboration.
The Research Scholar and Professor categories are interchangeable during a scholar’s stay at WashU. Scholar must possess at least a master’s degree. For information on the application process, refer to the Application process: J-1 scholars section further down this page.
- J-1 Specialist
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For longer visits (maximum 1 year, minimum 3 weeks) for observing, consulting, or demonstrating knowledge and skills as an expert in a specialized field.
Scholar must possess at least a master’s degree. For information on the application process, refer to the Application process: J-1 scholars section further down this page.
- J-1 Student Intern or Non-Degree Student
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For a structured internship program (maximum 12 months).
Student must be enrolled in a degree-seeking program at a postsecondary institution abroad at any level. For information on the application process, refer to the Application process: J-1 student interns section further down this page.
- J-1 Degree-Seeking Student or exchange student
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These EVs are considered international students. See Overview of Student Status Options for more information.
Regulations affecting status
J-1 EV immigration status is meant to be temporary and encourage the exchange of knowledge and skills between countries. Therefore, immigration regulations limit the activities that many EVs can participate in prior to or after their J-1 EV program ends. Departments must inform OISS if a prospective J-1 EV has been in J-1 immigration status in the past. OISS can help determine whether someone is subject to either of the bars or the two-year residence requirement.
Submission process: J-1 Professors, Research Scholars and Short-term Scholars
For EVs living outside of the U.S. or those currently in the U.S. on a J-1 EV program at another institution in the same scholar category (Professor, Research Scholar or Short-term Scholar).
The WashU sponsoring department must initiate all submissions.
OISS processing time for J-1 scholar DS-2019s is up to 10 business days. Visa appointment wait times and processing times vary greatly based on the U.S. embassy/consulate.
If the prospective EV is currently in the U.S. in another immigration status (such as F-1, H-1B etc.), contact OISS at J1Scholar@wustl.edu. Depending on the status and the timeline, it may not be possible to complete a change of status from within the U.S.
View the full J-1 Scholar application process below.
Step 1: Invite scholar & submit request
Contact OISS at J1Scholar@wustl.edu with questions or if you are unsure whether the prospective scholar qualifies for J-1 immigration status.
Issue your prospective J-1 scholar an invitation offer letter. You can use our J-1 Offer Letter Template. We recommend submitting the J-1 Scholar Application request in MyOISS for Scholars at least three (3) months in advance of the requested J-1 start date.
OISS processing time is up to 10 business days for an accurate and complete request. However, it is essential to have sufficient time for the J-1 EV to apply for a visa overseas and prepare to travel to the U.S. or to submit a change of status application from within the U.S.
You will be unable to submit a request that is less than 60 days from the scholar’s program start date. We ask that you plan in advance. OISS may also ask the department to update the requested program start date if insufficient time is allowed before an EV’s start date.
Step 2: Scholar prepares required documents
After the department contact initiates and submit a J-1 Scholar Application through MyOISS for Scholars, the scholar will receive an email with a link to request a one-time passcode and login to MyOISS for Scholars. There the system will walk them through all required forms and documentation.
Required for all submissions:
| Document type | Additional details |
| English proficiency | Info: English Language Proficiency |
| Passport bio page | Copy required |
| CV or resume | Copy required |
| Diploma | Copy required |
| Financial documents | Info: Proof of funding |
| Insurance documents | Info: Health insurance Eligible for WashU benefits: Proof of purchase of GeoBlue/BCBS Global Solutions insurance, enrollment code KZC-38035 Not eligible for WashU benefits: J Health Insurance Verification Form (PDF) |
- Required for scholars with dependents
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Document type Additional details Passport bio page for dependent(s) Copy required Prior/current visa documents for dependent(s) Copy required Financial documents Proof of funding including dependent(s) Documents also required to sponsor J-1 scholars with dependent(s). You must show proof of marriage for a spouse or relationship for a child (birth certificate) at the visa interview.
- Required for scholars who are eligible for WashU benefits
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Document type Additional details Health insurance verification Proof of purchase of GeoBlue/BCBS Global Solutions insurance Document also required to sponsor benefits eligible J-1 scholars.
- Required for scholars who were previously in J immigration status
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Document type Additional details Prior or current J immigration document Copies of all previous/current DS-2019s Documents also required to sponsor scholar who was previously in J immigration status.
Step 3: OISS reviews
When a request is completed, it will be assigned to an OISS adviser. We will check it for accuracy and completeness, and verify that both the prospective EV and position qualify for J-1 immigration status.
We will process complete requests within 10 business days of all completed sections. This includes information submitted by the prospective scholar.
Note: For transferring scholars, OISS will not be able to issue the DS-2019 until the transfer-in release date in SEVIS has passed. The WashU department should work with the scholar and their previous sponsor institution to determine this date.
Step 4: OISS approves request and creates DS-2019
Up to 10 business days
After the J-1 Scholar Application is submitted, reviewed and approved, OISS will create a Form DS-2019 for the incoming J-1 scholar and any dependents. The scholar’s program is limited by the dates on the DS-2019. They can enter the U.S. up to 30 days before the DS-2019 start date to prepare for their program and find housing.
Submission process: J-1 Student Interns and Non-Degree Students
For EVs living outside of the U.S. or those currently in the U.S. on a J-1 EV program at another institution in the same student category (Student Intern or Student Non-Degree).
The WashU sponsoring department must initiate all submissions.
OISS processing time for J-1 student intern and non-degree applications is up to 15 business days. Visa appointment wait times and processing times vary greatly based on the U.S. embassy/consulate.
If the prospective EV is currently in the U.S. in another immigration status (such as F-1, H-1B etc.), contact OISS at J1Scholar@wustl.edu. Depending on the status and the timeline, it may not be possible to complete a change of status from within the U.S.
WashU uses two different categories for international interns: J-1 Student Intern or J-1 Student Non-Degree. The table below shows a comparison of the two J-1 Exchange Visitor (EV) categories. Before submitting an application, contact OISS at J1Scholar@wustl.edu to determine the appropriate category. View the full process below.
| J-1 student intern | J-1 student non-degree | |
| Purpose | Structured internship which fulfills a home country degree requirement; Coursework allowed in addition to the required 32 hours/week of internship | Student engaged in a full-time course of study including classroom and/or research |
| Home Institution Requirements | Intern enrolled at home institution and internship enhances the academic program | N/a |
| Site of Activity | Must be WashU and/or site listed prior to arrival on Form DS-2019 and Form DS-7002 (T/IPP) | Must be WashU |
| Funding Source | No limitations | +51% of funding must be non-personal funds |
| Employment | Intern can only be paid for and participate in the internship listed on Form DS-2019 and Form DS-7002 (T/IPP) | Employment or payment allowed at WashU |
| Program Duration | 12 month maximum | 24 month maximum |
| OISS Processing Timeline | Up to 15 business days | Up to 10 business days |
View the full application process for J-1 student interns and J-1 student non-degree categories below.
Step 1: Invite student intern & submit request
Contact OISS at J1Scholar@wustl.edu with questions or if you are unsure whether the prospective scholar qualifies for J-1 immigration status.
Issue your prospective J-1 student intern an invitation offer letter. You can use our J-1 Offer Letter Template. We recommend submitting the J-1 Intern Application (student interns) or J-1 Scholar Application (non-degree students) request in MyOISS for Scholars at least three (3) months in advance of the requested J-1 start date.
OISS processing time is only up to 10 business days for an accurate and complete request. However, it is essential to have sufficient time for the J-1 EV to apply for a visa overseas and prepare to travel to the U.S. or to submit a change of status application from within the U.S.
You will be unable to submit a request that is less than 60 days from the scholar’s program start date. We ask that you plan in advance. OISS may also ask the department to update the requested program start date if insufficient time is allowed before an EV’s start date.
Step 2: Scholar prepares required documents
After the department contact initiates and submit a J-1 Intern Application (for interns) or J-1 Scholar Application (for non-degree students) through MyOISS for Scholars, the scholar will receive an email with a link to request a one-time passcode and login to MyOISS for Scholars. There the system will walk them through all required forms and documentation.
Required for all submissions:
| Document type | Additional details |
| English proficiency | Info: English Language Proficiency |
| Passport bio page | Copy required |
| CV or resume | Copy required |
| Diploma | Copy required |
| Financial documents | Info: Proof of funding |
| Insurance documents | Info: Health insurance Not eligible for WashU benefits: J Health Insurance Verification Form (PDF) |
- Required for J-1 student interns
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Document type Additional details Enrollment and good standing letter Letter on official
university stationery/letterhead from current institution
MUST be in EnglishSigned approval for participation letter Document from current institution’s
dean or academic adviser
approving participation in J-1 programWritten purpose statement for internship Written statement from
prospective EV indicating how
internship helps with their
educational objectives and
academic course of studyDocuments also required for J-1 student intern category.
- Required for scholars with dependents
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Document type Additional details Passport bio page for dependent(s) Copy required Prior/current visa documents for dependent(s) Copy required Financial documents Proof of funding including dependent(s) Documents also required to sponsor J-1 student intern or non-degree student with dependent(s). You must show proof of marriage for a spouse or relationship for a child (birth certificate) at the visa interview.
- Required for scholars who were previously in J immigration status
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Document type Additional details Prior or current J immigration document Copies of all previous/current DS-2019s Documents also required to sponsor J-1 student intern or non-degree student who was previously in J immigration status.
Step 3: OISS reviews
When a request is submitted, it will be assigned to an OISS adviser. We will check it for accuracy and completeness, and verify that both the prospective EV and position qualify for J-1 status as a student intern or non-degree student.
We will process complete requests within 15 business days of all completed sections. This includes information submitted by the prospective scholar.
Note: For transferring interns, OISS will not be able to issue the DS-2019 until the transfer-in release date in SEVIS has passed. The WashU department should work with the intern and their previous sponsor institution to determine this date.
Step 4: OISS approves and creates DS-2019
Up to 15 business days
After the J-1 Intern Application (or J-1 Scholar Application) request is submitted, reviewed and approved, OISS will create a DS-2019 for the incoming J-1 scholar and any dependents. The scholar’s program is limited by the dates on the DS-2019. They can enter the U.S. up to 30 days before the DS-2019 start date to prepare for their program and find housing.
English proficiency requirement
The Department of State (DOS) requires J‐1 scholars to show proof of English language proficiency. J‐1 scholars need English proficiency to function in their positions and perform daily living activities. Strong English proficiency enables cultural exchange, the goal of the J‐1 EV program.
Health insurance requirement
DOS J-1 Exchange Visitor Program regulations require that J-1 EVs and their J-2 dependents carry health insurance meeting specific minimum standards (Code of Federal Regulations – 22 CFR 62.14) during the entire length of their J program. Failure to maintain required insurance coverage can result in termination of J immigration status.
Proof of funding requirement
Before we can issue a DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility for a new J-1 scholar, DOS requires that WashU has evidence of sufficient funding from the EV. Financial documentation must show access to sufficient funds to cover the minimum amount established for the scholar and any dependents for the entire length of the program.
Student Non-Degree funding
At least 51% of Student Non-Degree funding must come from non-personal sources.
Proof of funding may come in the form of a bank statement, bank letter, or sponsorship letter from the source providing funding. We encourage scholars to send original documentation; however, OISS will accept printouts of online bank statements and scans/copies of original statements or letters. OISS reserves the right to require original documentation.
Minimum levels of funding are:
- J-1 Exchange Visitor — $2,644 per month or $31,720 per year
- First J-2 dependent — $817 per month or $9,800 per year
- Each additional J-2 dependent — $417 per month or $5,000 per year
If you will be paid by WashU and if the monthly or annual payment amount is equal to or exceeds the required amount for you and any applicable dependents, you are not required to submit additional supporting documentation.
U.S. Government Restrictions on acceptable funding evidence for an I-20 or DS-2019: U.S. OFAC financial sanctions prohibit OISS from accepting financial statements from financial institutions of countries subject to applicable sanctions, including countries subject to comprehensive OFAC sanctions (currently Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Syria, and certain regions of Ukraine).
- WashU funding
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If the sponsoring department is providing funding for the scholar, an official letter to OISS demonstrating their intent to provide financial support must be provided. Include this information in the offer or invitation letter or as a stand-alone document.
If the total amount listed does not equal or exceed minimum living expenses for the entire length of the program, for both the scholar and any dependents, additional funding documentation will be required.
- Outside sponsor funding
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Common forms of outside funding include scholarships, fellowships and employer funds (foreign or domestic). Document non-WashU funding, in English, as follows:
- A letter on official letterhead stating the entity’s intent to provide financial support for the scholar and/or dependents, if applicable, while at WashU
- The type and amount of the support being provided
- The dates that support will be provided
If the total amount listed does not equal or exceed minimum living expenses for the entire length of the program, for both the scholar and any dependents, additional funding documentation will be required.
- Personal funding
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A copy of an official bank letter or bank statement is required if the scholar is using only personal funds for the J program, or is bringing dependents that are not being supported by a sponsor. All documents from a financial institution must include the following information:
- Dated no more than 6 months from the received date
- Account holder’s full name in English – we will not accept only initials or first name and last initial
- Total amount listed per account or a sum of all the accounts which equals or exceeds minimum living expenses based on the university pay-scale for the entire length of the program for both the scholar and any dependents
All bank letters must be printed in English and on official bank letterhead or contain an official logo, stamp, seal, or signature.
- Unacceptable financial documents
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The following items are not acceptable proof of financial support:
- Retirement or investment accounts
These accounts are subject to taxes and a plethora of laws which would greatly reduce the amount of money received compared to what appears on the document. - Proof of valuable property
Property cannot be easily sold and the value is subject to many outside factors. - Tax and income statements
These statements show only how much money a person made over a given time or their projected income, not the amount which is currently liquid.
- Retirement or investment accounts
Hosting responsibilities
Once you have been approved to host a J-1 scholar and OISS has created their DS-2019, DOS J-1 Exchange Visitor Program regulations require that you understand and meet certain obligations, referred to any host department responsibilities. Direct any questions during this time to OISS at J1Scholar@wustl.edu.