J-1 Short-Term Scholar

You may participate in the J-1 Short-Term Scholar category if you will visit Stony Brook University for a brief academic or professional exchange.

This category allows you to come to the United States for a short period of time to lecture, consult, observe, conduct research, or demonstrate specialized knowledge or skills. It is commonly used for visiting scholars, researchers, professors, and experts who will participate in a short academic program or collaboration.

Your program must have a specific purpose and defined activities that are sponsored by a Stony Brook University department.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the J-1 Short-Term Scholar category, you must:

Have a clearly defined, short-term academic objective (e.g., lecturing, consulting, observing, or conducting research)
Hold at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in a relevant field
Demonstrate sufficient English proficiency to participate in the program
Show adequate funding for the duration of the visit
Maintain required health insurance for the entire program period
Be coming for a temporary visit of six months or less (no extensions permitted)

Length of Stay

The J-1 Short-Term Scholar category is intended for short academic visits.

Minimum stay: There is no minimum program length.
Maximum stay: 6 months

Your program end date will appear on your Form DS-2019.

This category cannot be extended beyond 6 months. If your activities will require more time, a different J-1 category may be more appropriate.

Program Activities

During your program, you may participate in activities that support academic exchange and collaboration.

Examples of common activities include:

Giving lectures or presentations
Consulting with faculty or research teams
Conducting short-term research
Observing academic or research activities
Demonstrating specialized skills or techniques

Your activities must match the purpose listed on your Form DS-2019 and must be sponsored by a Stony Brook University department.