The J-1 visa's formal name is the Exchange Visitor Program (EVP). The EVP is administered by the U.S. Department of State for the purpose of fostering mutual educational and cultural exchange. The program allows international students, scholars, professors, researchers, specialists, etc., to participate in academic (study or teaching) and research activities in the U.S. on a temporary nonimmigrant status.
The J-1 visa cannot be used for tenure-track or tenured appointments as well as Managerial and Professional (M&P) or Clerical and Technical (C&T) positions. Here is a list of acceptable J-1 Scholar job titles.
UMass Amherst and all J-1 participants must comply with the Exchange Visitor Program regulations found at 22 CFR Part 62. Note that participation in cross-cultural activities is an integral part of the exchange visitors’ program in the U.S.
Exchange Visitor Categories
UMass Amherst sponsors these categories under the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program:
| Category | Description | Maximum Duration | 212e Subjectivity | Bar on Repeat Participation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Research Scholar/Professor |
|
Maximum duration of 5 years | Maybe | Yes |
| Short-Term Scholar |
|
Maximum duration of 6 months (no extensions) | Maybe | No* |
| Specialist |
|
Maximum duration of 1 year | Maybe | No* |
*UMass Amherst requires at least 6 months between J-1 Scholar programs; each repeat visit must be based on a new academic objective.
