Visiting Scholars
The J-1 Exchange Visitor Program was established by the U.S. Government to allow scholars from other
countries to come to the U.S. to participate in educational and cultural programs.
The objective of the
Exchange Visitor Program is to increase mutual understanding between the citizens
of the U.S. and the
Exchange Visitors’ countries. California Lutheran University has been recognized by
the U.S. Department
of State as an Exchange Visitor Program Sponsor. The presence of visiting scholars
at California
Lutheran University promotes diversity and awareness of other cultures, peoples, and
languages; and a
greater understanding, appreciation, and respect for other cultures.
The exchange visitors coming to CLU may participate in studies, research, or teaching
as it corresponds
to their specific J-1 category. All U.S. visitors holding J-1 visa status are referred
to as Exchange Visitors
(EV). CLU hosts exchange students as well as exchange faculty. Details about student
exchange are
available through the provided link to the OISS student exchange site. The current page overviews faculty
exchange (aka. Visiting Scholars).
J-1 Exchange Visitor Categories at CLU
Before inviting a EV it is important to know what role is pursued. There are several
J-1 Categories that a
J-1 Visiting Scholar can be selected for pending the type of work.
Scholars in this category may be invited to collaborate on research projects, observe,
and may also teach
or give lectures or seminars. Minimum stay in the U.S. is 3 weeks, maximum is 5 years.
The short-term scholar category is suitable for scholars coming to lecture, observe,
consult, and
participate in seminars, workshops, or conferences. No minimum stay is required. Maximum stay in
the U.S. is 6 months. Extensions of the program beyond six months are not allowed.
This category is appropriate for visitors coming to the U.S. to consult, observe,
or demonstrate
specialized knowledge or skills in which they are experts. Minimum stay in the U.S. is 3 weeks,
maximum is 1 year.
Note: The Department of State usually does not permit change from one J category to another.
However,
change from research scholar to professor category, and vice versa, is permitted.
The J-1 Visiting Scholar status may not be used for tenure-track faculty positions.