UCI International Center

J-1 Eligibility

Section 1

J-1 Eligibility

UCI is designated by the Department of State to serve as a J-1 program sponsor, and is required to comply with rules, policies, and regulations in the administration of the J-1 program.

Departments should allow at least 60 days between submission of the DS-2019 request to the International Center and the anticipated start date of the Exchange Visitor's program. This allows for mailing, SEVIS fee payment, visa application, visa processing--including any required background checks, and travel arrangements. 

J-1 Categories at UCI

CategoryActivity at UCIDuration of Stay
Research Scholar Individual primarily conducting research, observing, or consulting in connection with a research project may teach or lecture. 3 Weeks to 5 Years
Short-Term Scholar A professor, research scholar, or specialist, coming for a short-term visit for the purpose of lecturing, observing, consulting, training, or demonstrating special skills. 6 Months
Professor An individual primarily teaching, lecturing, observing, or consulting. May also participate in departmental research. 3 Weeks to 5 Years
Non-Degree

An individual in a full-course of study including classroom and/or research, as part of an international agreement (Agreement must be attached to request) or with an Academic  Appointment. This category requires that the undergraduate student be enrolled and pursuing an undergraduate program at an accredited post-secondary academic institution outside the U.S. and funding is at minimum 51% non-personal funds (home institution, scholarship, fellowship). 

Exchange visitors in the categories above may be subject to the Two-Year Home Country Physical Presence Requirement.

Academic Titles Eligible for Sponsorship

  • Visiting Scholar
  • Visiting Graduate
  • Visiting Undergraduate
  • Visiting Professor Series
  • Visiting Professional Researcher Series
  • Visiting Project Scientist Series
  • Project Scientist Series
  • Specialist Series
  • Professional Research Series
  • Adjunct Professor Series
  • Lecturer
  • Junior Specialist [job description must require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree]
  • Postdoctoral Scholars
  • Staff Research Associate II, and above