On July 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security published a final rule eliminating Duration of Status for certain nonimmigrant students and exchange visitors. The rule takes effect on September 15, 2026. Please visit our Duration of Status Rule Change webpage for additional information and updates.
Types of J-1 scholars
J-1 scholars are participants in an exchange program sponsored by the U.S. Department of State.
The J-1 scholar program increases mutual understanding between the people of the U.S. and the people of other countries by means of educational and cultural exchanges. General requirements for eligibility include intent to return to the home country, sufficient funding and health insurance for J-1 scholars and accompanying dependents, appropriate educational background for program activities and adequate English ability.
J-1 scholar types
| J-1 Scholar category | Maximum duration |
|---|---|
| Short-term Scholar | 6 months |
| Professor/Research Scholar | 1 year upfront, then extended yearly for a total of 5 consecutive years |
| Specialist | 12 months |
| Student Non-Degree | 2 years |
| J-1 Student Intern | 12 months |