Information for WHOI Sponsors

J-1 Exchange Visitor Program

General Information

The purpose of the Exchange Visitor Program is to facilitate educational and cultural exchange activities in order to develop mutual understanding between the people of the United States and other countries.

The Institution has been designated as a sponsor for the Research Scholar and Short Term Scholar categories by the U.S. Department of State (DOS) which administers this program.

J-1 Research Scholar is an individual primarily conducting research, observing or consulting in connection with a research project. They may also participate in lectures, and teach. A J-1 Short-term Scholar - is an individual whose primary purpose is to participate in lectures, observation, consulting, training, or demonstrating a special skill.

Exchange Visitors under the category of Research Scholar may remain in the U.S. for a maximum of three years. It may be possible to apply for an additional six months if the sponsoring department is able to demonstrate that the additional time is needed to complete research and that the Exchange Visitor will then return to their home country. Exchange Visitors under the category of Short-Term Scholar may remain in the U.S. for up to six months. The six month period coincides with the maximum period of stay in J-1 status which will not trigger the bar on participation in a J-1 Research Scholar or Professor Program for J-1 stays within the preceding year (see Bar on Participation as Scholar or Professor for Previous J-1 Visa Holders). There can be no extension of stay beyond the six-month limit for Short Term Scholar participants.

J-1 scholars are authorized to conduct employment as indicated on the Form DS-2019. An exchange visitor may accept additional employment, (occasional lectures and short-term consultation), so long as the employment is directly related to the purpose of the exchange visitor's program; is incidental to the primary program activity; and will not delay the completion date of the program. The exchange visitor must present a letter of offer for the incidental employment stating the terms and conditions of the offer; and a letter from their sponsor recommending the activity and explaining how the activity will enhance the exchange visitor's program. If approved, written authorization is obtained from the Responsible/Alternative Responsible Officer prior to the exchange visitor initiating employment.