What is a J-1 Research Scholar?
FAQ.
Answered by Robin Catmur-Smith, Managing Director of the International Student Resource Center
Last updated: July, 2026
What is a J-1 Research Scholar?
The J-1 Research Scholar is an Exchange Visitor visa category that allows up to 5 years in the U.S. to conduct research (and, where authorized, teach) at universities, hospitals, research institutions, and R&D-engaged companies. It requires a relevant degree and a position offer from an approved Exchange Visitor Program sponsor. In some cases, it may subject you to the Two-Year Home-Country Requirement.
Key details
Duration: up to 5 years.
Purpose: conducting research, observing, or consulting on a research project; may also teach/lecture where the sponsor authorizes. (The Research Scholar and Professor categories are largely interchangeable — a researcher may teach and a professor may research where authorized.)
Requirements: a relevant educational degree and an appropriate position offer from an organization approved to sponsor under the Exchange Visitor Program.
May subject you to the Two-Year Home-Country Physical Presence Requirement (INA 212(e).
