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J-1 Students and Scholars

At Central Michigan University, we believe international education and cultural exchange are powerful tools for building lasting global connections. Through the U.S. Department of State’s Exchange Visitor Program, participants experience life in the United States while sharing their unique perspectives with CMU’s students, faculty and staff. 

This program, established under the Fulbright-Hays Act of 1961, promotes mutual understanding between the U.S. and other countries through academic and cultural engagement. Most students and scholars return home after their program, equipped with meaningful experiences and new connections. 

CMU’s Office of International Student and Scholar Services supports this process by issuing the Form DS-2019, required for obtaining a J-1 visa and beginning your journey with us. 

Learn more about the  Exchange Visitor Program

General eligibility 

To participate in the J-1 Students and Scholars Program at Central Michigan University, applicants must meet U.S. Department of State requirements as outlined in Title 22 of the Code of Federal Regulations. These ensure each visitor is prepared for a meaningful and temporary experience in the United States. 

Basic eligibility includes: 

  • A clear plan to stay in the U.S. for a temporary, specific purpose.
  • English proficiency for day-to-day communication and program participation.
  • Acceptance into an approved CMU program.
  • Sufficient financial resources for the duration of stay.
  • Strong ties to their home country, demonstrating intent to return.
  • Appropriate qualifications for the chosen J-1 category.

J-1 categories sponsored by CMU 

J-1 scholars

  • Professors: Primarily teaching, lecturing or observing (may also conduct research).
  • Research scholars: Conducting or consulting on research projects (may also teach).
  • Short-term scholars: Visiting experts for observing, consulting, training or demonstrating special skills. 

J-1 students

  • Non-degree students: Participating in a curated academic program.
  • Degree-seeking students: Enrolled in full-time degree programs.
  • Student interns: Only for international students completing internships tied to their home degree program (up to 12 months).

    CMU’s International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) assists departments and international scholars throughout the invitation and visa process. 

    For further information, please contact ISSS by email at j1ev@cmich.edu or by phone at 989-774-4308.

    Entering the U.S.  

    To enter the United States, you will need: 

    • A valid DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility issued by your program sponsor.
    • A valid J-1 visa stamp (not required for Canadian citizens).
    • SEVIS I-901 fee payment receipt.

    You may enter the U.S. no earlier than 30 days before the start date listed on your DS-2019 (Item #3), and no later than 15 days after that date.  

    Frequently asked questions

      When traveling outside the United States, you will need to have the proper documents to return, including:

      • Passport valid 6 months into the future.
      • Valid DS-2019 with travel signature less than 1 year old.
      • Copy of your I-94 Arrival/Departure Record.

      After completing their J-1 program, exchange visitors are granted a 30-day grace period to remain in the United States for the purpose of travel, wrapping up personal affairs and preparing to depart. Employment is not allowed during this period, and reentry to the U.S. is not permitted once the individual has left the country.

      All J-1 exchange visitors are required to file federal tax forms for each year they are present in the United States, regardless of whether they earn income.

      • April 15 filing deadline: if U.S. income was earned
      • June 15 filing deadline: if no U.S. income was earned

      For more guidance, consult a tax advisor or refer to our Resources page.