/Office of Global Affairs
Visa and Immigration Services

J-1 Research Scholar/Professor

You may participate in the J-1 Research Scholar category if you will come to Stony Brook University for a temporary academic or research program.

In this category, you may conduct research, teach, lecture, observe, or consult as part of a specific academic or research objective sponsored by the university. Your program must support academic exchange and the sharing of knowledge between you and members of the university community.

Your program must be clearly defined before it begins. You must work with a Stony Brook department that will host your activities and oversee your program.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the J-1 Research Scholar or Professor category, you must:

  • Have a temporary academic appointment at Stony Brook for research, teaching, or consulting
  • Possess the appropriate academic credentials for the role
  • Demonstrate sufficient English proficiency for the program
  • Show adequate funding to cover living expenses (including dependents, if applicable)
  • Maintain required health insurance for the full program duration
  • Be eligible under the 12- and 24-month J-1 bars, if previously in J status

Length of Stay

The J-1 Research Scholar category has both a minimum and a maximum program length.

  • Minimum stay: 3 weeks

  • Maximum stay: 5 years

You may remain in the United States for the period listed on your Form DS-2019, as long as you continue to participate in your approved program and follow J-1 regulations.

If your program ends early, your department must notify Visa & Immigration Services. If additional time is needed to complete your program, your department may request an extension before your program end date.

Program Activities

During your J-1 program, your activities must match the purpose listed on your Form DS-2019.

Your activities may include:

  • Conducting academic research

  • Teaching or lecturing

  • Consulting on research or academic projects

  • Observing research or teaching activities

You must only participate in activities that are approved as part of your program.

Tenure Restrictions

The J-1 Research Scholar category is intended for temporary exchange programs.

If you are sponsored in this category:

  • You cannot hold a tenure-track position

  • You cannot be a candidate for tenure

If your appointment involves a tenure-track position, a different immigration category may be required.