Scholars

Scholar Application

The scholar application is an online request process involving both the sponsoring department and the incoming exchange visitor.  

NOTICE

Per , ALL scholars are now required to complete  BEFORE our office can proceed with the production of the DS-2019. This screening can add several weeks to the departmental timeline.

Departmental Requirements

After the USF department or faculty member determines they will host an international scholar at USF to engage in research, teaching, observation or other appropriate academic activity for 1 week to 5 years, they need to:

  1. Verify that the scholar鈥檚 academic credentials are appropriate to the proposed academic activity.
  2. Follow the which include agreeing to supervise the activity during the stay at USF and arranging for appropriate work space and access to appropriate office equipment (computer, phone, etc.).
  3. Go to the . If the scholar will be employed you will follow the standard Foreign Influence process. You will provide the scholar with an official offer letter and proof of completing Foreign Influence. If the scholar will not be employed you will need to complete Foreign Principle Screening during the first stage of the J-1 Scholar Application.
  4. Send an invitation letter by mail or email an offical invitation letter. Here is a . 

The department begins the online J-1 Scholar Application鈥痯rocess three to six months prior to the planned start date at USF. This ensures that the scholar鈥痺ill have adequate time to apply for the visa and arrange travel.  Please refer to the J-1 Scholar Application Instruction for Departments document for a detailed walkthrough of the process. 

OIS issues a DS-2019 within鈥�10 business days鈥痮f submission of a complete and correct online J-1 Scholar Application. OIS sends the DS-2019 electronically directly to the scholar.

***Important: Do not start the iStart scholar application process until the scholar has been sent their official USF job offer letter if they will be employed, and the Foreign Influence/Principal Screening has been completed.***