What is the difference between a J-1 Research Scholar and a Professor?
Compare the J-1 Research Scholar and Professor categories, their primary activities, shared rules, and how to choose the right program.
What is a J-1 Research Scholar?
Learn who qualifies for the J-1 Research Scholar category, eligible activities, the 5-year limit, and key requirements for participating in the program.
How do I know my official program completion date?
Find your official F-1 or J-1 program completion date, understand which immigration document controls your status, and avoid status problems.
How long can I stay in the U.S. after I finish my program?
Find out how long F-1 and J-1 students can stay in the U.S. after completing their program, what the grace period allows, and key deadlines.
When can I apply for post-completion OPT?
Find out when to apply for post-completion OPT, key filing deadlines, and how applying early can help avoid delays in starting work legally.
After OPT, what other options exist, such as J-1, H-1B, O-1, and permanent residence?
Explore your visa options after OPT or Academic Training, including J-1, H-1B, O-1, and green card pathways to remain in the U.S.
How do recent immigration policy changes affect me?
Stay informed about recent U.S. immigration policy changes, how they may affect your status, and where to find the latest updates and guidance.
Can I work or conduct research during my grace period?
Learn whether you can work or conduct research during your F-1 or J-1 grace period and what activities are allowed after your program ends.
What can I do during my grace period?
Learn what you can do during your F-1 or J-1 grace period, including travel, preparing to leave, and eligible post-program options like OPT or transfers.
What is Optional Practical Training (OPT)?
Learn what Optional Practical Training (OPT) is, who qualifies, how to apply, and the rules for F-1 students seeking work experience in their field.
How do I transfer to a new school or change my academic level?
Transfer schools or change your academic level without risking your F-1 or J-1 status by following the correct SEVIS transfer process.
Can I apply for post-completion OPT as an ABD (All But Defense) student?
Learn when PhD students who are ABD can apply for post-completion OPT, how it differs from pre-completion OPT, and key eligibility rules.
What is “specialized knowledge” for an L-1 visa?
Understand what qualifies as specialized knowledge for an L-1B visa, who meets the standard, and how USCIS evaluates eligible positions.
Is there an annual limit on H-1B visas?
Find out how the H-1B annual cap works, who qualifies for the master's cap, and which employers are exempt from the H-1B lottery.
How much do I need to invest for an E-2 visa?
Understand how much you need to invest for an E-2 visa, what "substantial investment" means, and the requirements for a qualifying business.
What are the EB-1A extraordinary ability criteria?
Review the 10 EB-1A extraordinary ability criteria, the three-criteria requirement, and how USCIS makes its final eligibility decision.
Can I apply for my marriage green card at the same time my spouse petitions for me?
Find out when you can file Form I-130 and Form I-485 together, who qualifies for concurrent filing, and how a spouse's status affects timing.
What is the National Interest Waiver (NIW)?
Understand how the National Interest Waiver (NIW) lets eligible EB-2 applicants self-petition without employer sponsorship or labor certification.
Which jobs qualify for a TN visa?
See which professions qualify for a TN visa, the education requirements, and how your job offer and qualifications must match USMCA rules.
What does “extraordinary ability” mean for an O-1 visa?
Understand what extraordinary ability means for an O-1 visa, the evidence USCIS requires, and how applicants qualify under the eligibility criteria.