Postdocs & Scholars
Information about studying, researching, teaching and working in the United States as a postdoctoral candidate, researcher, or scholar from another country.
Featured Resources
This is ISRC's interactive tool that helps F-1/J-1 students and scholars determine their new I-94 "Admit Until Date," grace period, and I-539 extension requirements under the incoming "Loss of D/S" rule taking effect September 15, 2026 (currently facing a court challenge).
Fixed Admission and the “loss of D/S” rule for J-1 exchange visitors and program sponsors
A straightforward guide to transferring your J-1 exchange visitor program from one designated sponsor to another.
The J-1 program is the U.S. Department of State's framework for international educational and cultural exchange. This overview explains what it is and how it's run, then links to the details.
Postdocs face choices that other scholars don't — especially J-1 vs H-1B and how those choices might affect a future green card. Here's what to weigh.
FAQs
Find out what J-1 scholars can study, when incidental coursework is allowed, and why degree programs require a different visa status.
Understand the J-1 212(e) waiver process, the four grounds for approval, and when to apply before pursuing H-1B or permanent residence.
Find out when you can change your J-1 category, why approval is rare, and how the process affects your status and future exchange programs.
Know which changes J-1 exchange visitors must report to their sponsor, the 10-day reporting deadline, and how to avoid SEVIS status problems.
Find out when J-1 visa holders can work in the U.S., which jobs require prior approval, and what employment could jeopardize your status.
Understand who qualifies for the J-1 Short-Term Scholar category, permitted activities, the 6-month limit, and important program restrictions.
Compare the J-1 Student Intern and Intern/Trainee categories, who qualifies for each, and the key differences in eligibility and training.
Understand the J-1 health insurance requirements, minimum coverage amounts, dependent rules, and how to maintain compliance throughout your program.
Find out what English proficiency is required for a J-1 program, how sponsors evaluate language skills, and which forms of proof are accepted.
Compare the J-1 Research Scholar and Professor categories, their primary activities, shared rules, and how to choose the right program.
Learn how J-1 cross-cultural exchange works, what sponsors must provide, and how participating helps you maintain a successful exchange program.
Learn who qualifies for the J-1 Research Scholar category, eligible activities, the 5-year limit, and key requirements for participating in the program.
Find out when to apply for post-completion OPT, key filing deadlines, and how applying early can help avoid delays in starting work legally.
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.
Find out what happens if you fall out of F-1 or J-1 status, your options to regain status, and why acting quickly is critical.
Stay informed about recent U.S. immigration policy changes, how they may affect your status, and where to find the latest updates and guidance.
Helpful Guides
This is ISRC's interactive tool that helps F-1/J-1 students and scholars determine their new I-94 "Admit Until Date," grace period, and I-539 extension requirements under the incoming "Loss of D/S" rule taking effect September 15, 2026 (currently facing a court challenge).
Fixed Admission and the “loss of D/S” rule for J-1 exchange visitors and program sponsors
A straightforward guide to transferring your J-1 exchange visitor program from one designated sponsor to another.
The most common employment green cards for graduates with a U.S. job offer, plus the National Interest Waiver, which can skip the job offer entirely.
Your eligible family members can join you in the U.S. on J-2 visas, tied to your J-1 status. Learn what you need to know in this overview of J-2 Dependent Visas for spouses and children.
Your J-1 category is chosen by your sponsor based on your qualifications, role, activities, and length of stay. Here's how the academic and research categories compare.
The J-1 program is the U.S. Department of State's framework for international educational and cultural exchange. This overview explains what it is and how it's run, then links to the details.
Keeping J-1 status means meeting reporting obligations to your sponsor and handling program changes the right way. Learn about the landscape for scholars in this overview for maintaining J-1 Status and program changes.
Three separate J-1 rules are often confused: the 212(e) two-year home-country residency requirement, the 24-month bar, and the 12-month bar. This guide explains each and how they differ.
Before and just after you arrive, your sponsor must give you certain orientation and arrival information and confirm that you meet a few requirements. Learn what to expect in this overview for pre-arrival, orientation, English, and health insurance while in the United States.
Postdocs face choices that other scholars don't — especially J-1 vs H-1B and how those choices might affect a future green card. Here's what to weigh.
Once your sponsor issues your DS-2019, you can apply for your J-1 visa. The core process matches the student J-1 process, with a few scholar-specific funding points.
While holding J-1 visa status in the U.S., your activities must center on your program objectives, and most work opportunities will need your RO/ARO's prior written approval. Here's the framework, with real scenarios.