Frequently Asked Questions
Can I begin working before receiving authorization?
Learn when international students can begin working, required work authorization, and why starting early can jeopardize your immigration status.
What is a Responsible Officer (RO) and an Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO)?
Understand the roles of J-1 Responsible Officers (ROs) and Alternate Responsible Officers (AROs), and when to contact them about your status.
Who is subject to the Two-Year Requirement (212e)
Learn who is subject to the J-1 two-year home residency requirement (212(e)), what it affects, and how to determine if it applies to you.
What is a J-1 program sponsor?
Learn what a J-1 program sponsor is, what they do, and how they manage your SEVIS record, DS-2019, program benefits, and J-1 compliance.
How much financial support do I need to demonstrate for a J-1 visa?
Learn how much financial support you need for a J-1 visa, what proof of funding is accepted, and how sponsors determine required amounts.
How do I request an expedited visa interview?
Learn how to request an expedited U.S. visa interview, including eligibility, required steps, timing, and supporting documents.
What to do if my visa is denied?
Learn what to do if your U.S. visa is denied, including understanding the reason, fixing issues, informing your DSO, and reapplying if eligible.
How do I know who my J-1 program sponsor is?
How to identify your official J-1 sponsor (the organization on your DS-2019) and why to contact its RO/ARO for all immigration matters.
What is the I-901 SEVIS fee?
Learn what the I-901 SEVIS fee is, how much it costs, when to pay it, and why it's required before applying for an F-1, M-1, or J-1 visa.
How does non-immigrant intent affect my application
Learn how nonimmigrant intent affects your U.S. visa application, what an INA 214(b) denial means, and how to strengthen a future application.
How much financial support do I need to demonstrate for an F-1 visa?
Learn how much financial support you need for an F-1 visa, what counts as proof of funding, and how schools calculate Cost of Attendance.
What is Form I-20?
Learn what Form I-20 is, what it includes, and why you need it for your F-1 visa, SEVIS fee, travel, and maintaining student status.
What is SEVIS?
Learn what SEVIS is, how it tracks F-1 and J-1 students, and why keeping your SEVIS record active is essential to maintaining legal status.
What documents will I receive after being admitted to a U.S. school as a J-1 student?
Learn which documents you'll receive after J-1 admission, including your Form DS-2019, and what you need before applying for a J-1 visa.
What is Economic Hardship employment?
Learn what Economic Hardship employment is, who qualifies, how to apply, and what F-1 students need to prove for USCIS work authorization.
What if my visa expires while I’m abroad?
Learn what to do if your U.S. visa expires while you're abroad, when you need a new visa, and when Automatic Visa Revalidation may apply.
What is J-1 Academic Training (AT)?
Learn what J-1 Academic Training (AT) is, who qualifies, time limits, and how to get work authorization through your program sponsor.