Hosting a J-1 Research Scholar at Teachers College

If you are interested in hosting a Visiting Scholar who requires J-1 visa sponsorship, there are a few additional items to consider before pursuing the request. 

The OISS is here to assist you through the process of inviting and hosting a J-1 Research Scholar. We ask that you make your request to host a J-1 Research Scholar and their Form DS-2019 at least two to three (2-3) months in advance of the expected program start date of the Visiting Scholars program. This allows time for the scholar to receive the DS-2019 and obtain a J-1 Visa in a timely manner. 

We provide a J-1 visa workshop/orientation for an incoming J-1 Exchange Visitor. We are also available to departments by phone, email, or appointments for questions about J-1 status, extension, cultural adjustment, etc.    

Host Academic Department Responsibilities 

As an academic host department, you have certain responsibilities to ensure that your invited Visiting Scholar is successful as a J-1 Exchange Visitor. We encourage the host department and faculty to provide opportunities that inspire educational and cultural exchanges amongst the J-1 Exchange Visitor and TC students, faculty, and staff. 

 J-2 Dependents

If the J-1 Research Scholar will be bringing their child(ren) or spouse as their dependent, they will need to request J-2 visa sponsorship via TC-Compass. They may also have questions regarding child care resources. While not extensive, you will find information and resources regarding child care here. 

Insurance Requirement

J-1 Exchange Visitors are required to have insurance for themselves and their dependents for the duration of their program. The academic host department is responsible to notify the J-1 Exchange Visitor regarding this requirement. More information can be found here. 

Inviting Faculty Host Responsibilties 

By extending an invitation to a J-1 research scholar, the faculty host agrees to the following:

• Notify and verify the J-1 Exchange Visitor's English language proficiency meets the U.S. Department of State requirement
• Be present on campus for the duration of the scholar's visit
• Ensure the scholar checks-in with the department's administrator and the OISS immediately upon arrival
• Meet with the scholar at the start and through out the program to discuss research strategy and goals
• Have a general idea of the scholar's whereabouts (e.g., out for illness, out for vacation) and report any concerns to the OISS as soon as possible
• Report as soon as possibleto the OISS any unexplained, extended absences 
• Obtain prior approval from the OISS before any changes occur in the scholar's program (e.g., finances, end date, program objectives)