J-1 Status Maintenance

While studying in the United States on an J-1 student visa, it is the responsibility of each individual participant to follow all rules and regulations associated with their student visa to maintain valid status. This includes, but is not limited to, maintaining full-time enrollment, reporting any changes in address or academic status, adhering to employment restrictions, and keeping immigration documents up to date. Specific rules and student responsibilities can be found in the Guide to Status Maintenance.

Failure to comply with these rules and responsibilities will result in a violation of status. This will trigger the termination of the exchange visitors SEVIS record and associated J-1 status, meaning the participant is no longer eligible for any benefits associated with J-1 status. In such cases, the participant must depart the United States immediately.

Immigration Support

J-1 participants are encouraged to consult with the International Services office for any questions or concerns related to their status to ensure they remain in compliance with U.S. immigration laws

J-1 Participant Responsibilities

Report to Your Responsible Officer

Report to the Responsible Officer prior to the program start date listed on your DS-2019, complete your immigration check-in via the International Services Portal and report your U.S. address.

Report Address Changes within 10 Days

J-1 students must update your address in your Student Profile via your eCampus account.

J-1 scholars (Short-Term Scholar, Research Scholar/Professor) must notify your RO directly of your new address.

Keep Your Passport and DS-2019 Valid at All Times

You must have a valid passport (valid at least 6 months in the future) along with a valid DS-2019, and an I-94 record that reflects “D/S” and “J-1” status.

Engage in Appropriate Activities

J-1 students are required to carry a full course of study.

J-1 scholars (Short-Term Scholar, Research Scholar/Professor) are required to perform research, lecture, consult, or teach.

Employment

J-1 students may work on-campus, no more than 20 hours per week, while school is in session and enrolled in a full course of study with permission from International Services.

J-1 scholars (Short-Term Scholar, Research Scholar/Professor) must seek permission for employment from International Services.

Health Insurance

J-1 students are required to be insured by the university student health insurance plan.

J-1 scholars (Short-Term Scholar, Research Scholar/Professor) and their dependents must maintain required health insurance meeting the minimum requirements specified at 22 CFR 62.14 insurance throughout their program.

Program Completion

J-1 participants and their J-2 dependents must depart the United States within 30 days of their Form DS-2019 expiration date or program completion date, whichever is earlier. Scholars completing their programs early must notify International Services.

Program Extension

J-1 scholars (Short-Term Scholar, Research Scholar/Professor) must apply for a program extension within the overall time limit for a specific category before their current Forms DS-2019 expire.