International Student and Scholar Services
J-1 Visiting Scholars (Exchange Visitors)
J-1 Exchange Visitor Program Overview
St. Cloud State University believes educational and cultural exchanges with people and institutions of higher learning in other countries increase global understanding on its campus and in the community. We are a sponsor of the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program and follow the Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961 regulations.
The Exchange Visitor Program allows participants the opportunity to engage broadly with Americans, share their culture, strengthen their English language abilities, and learn new skills or build skills that will help them in future careers.
SCSU is approved to host exchange visitors as professors, research scholars, or short-term scholars.
For more information about the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program, visit the U.S. Department of State J-1 Exchange Visitor Program website.
Types of Exchanges
Professor
- Primary purpose of teaching, lecturing, observing or consulting at accredited post-secondary academic institutions, museums, libraries or similar types of institutions. A professor may also conduct research.
- Minimum 3 week stay in the United States
- Maximum 5 year stay in the United States
- After completion of a program are barred for 2 years from beginning a new J-1 Professor/Research Scholar program)
Research Scholar
- Primary purpose of conducting research, observing, or consulting in connection with research projects at research institutions, corporate research facilities, museums, libraries, post-secondary accredited academic institutions, or similar types of institutions. A research scholar may also teach or lecture.
- Minimum 3-week stay in the United States.
- Maximum 5-year stay in the United States.
- After completion of a program, participants are barred for 2 years from beginning a new J-1 Professor/Research Scholar program.
Short-Term Scholar
- Person with similar education to a professor or research scholar coming for a short-term visit, primarily for lecturing, observing, or training.
- No minimum stay.
- Maximum 6-month stay in the United States.
- Status cannot be extended or changed.