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J-1 Eligibility

In order to qualify as a J-1 exchange visitor, an individual must meet the following eligibility requirements:

  1. Possess the qualifications, background, and experience for the program.  This requirement is further specified for each of the J-1 categories.
  2. Possess English language proficiency sufficient to participate in the program.*
  3. Possess adequate financial resources to complete program and support any accompanying dependents.

 

English Language Requirement

The US Department of State recently released new regulations which further address English language proficiency for J-1 exchange visitors.  The new regulations require that the sponsor (VT) verify the prospective exchange visitor possesses sufficient proficiency in the English language as determined by an objective measurement of English language proficiency, successfully to participate in his or her program and to function on a day-to-day basis.  Currently, information about English Language requirements can be found here: English Language Requirements.

 

Funding Requirements

The total funding must meet minimum requirements listed on the Funding Requiremenst Page.

 

Export Review and Conviction Check

All J-1 Scholars and Student Interns must be reviewed by the Office of Export and Secure Research Compliance (OESRC) before ISS can process the J-1 request.  Follow the instructions detailed here.

 

Invitation Letters for J-1 Exchange Visitors 

The invitation letter to the potential J-1 Scholar/Student Intern is important both for the J-1 visitor and to GSS.  The J-1 visitor may need the invitation letter to obtain funding and to present at the visa interview and GSS needs to see a copy of the invitation letter to know more specifically the purpose of the visit and possible long term plans which might affect the visitor’s immigration status in the future. See templates here.

 

Other Criteria

Criteria and rules for J-1 exchange visitors are further specified based on which J-1 category the individual will use.  Virginia Tech has four J-1 categories available for individuals who will not enroll as students at Virginia Tech: Student Intern, Short-Term Scholar, Research Scholar, and Professor.