J-1 scholars come to MU through the Exchange Visitor Program. J-1 scholars are short-term employees or visitors who can teach, lecture, study, observe, conduct research, consult, train or demonstrate special skills.

To bring a J-1 scholar to the MU campus, International Student and Scholar Services must issue a Form DS-2019, required for the exchange visitor’s visa application. This process is initiated by the host department, following the steps outlined below. Please contact an international scholar adviser with any questions.

J-1 scholar fees

New J-1 scholar request process

Step 1: Host department submits J-1 scholar request

The request is submitted online in myStatus, and the host department must provide the following information. This information is used to create the document the scholar will use to apply for their visa (Form DS-2019), so please ensure it is accurate.

• Scholar’s biographical information, including copy of passport biographical page
• Dependent information (including copies of passport biographical pages) — if applicable
• J-1 Scholar Program Agreement
• J-1 Scholar Program Information (includes scholar fee form)
• Proof of English language proficiency (one of the following, learn more about this requirement):
  • Results from a recognized English language test
  • Signed documentation from an academic institution or English language school
  • Documented interview conducted by host department either in person or by phone/video conference
• Scholar’s résumé or curriculum vitae
• If host department is providing financial support: Letter of offer
• If host department is not providing financial support: Letter of invitation (sample) and proof of funding
  • Proof of funding must show at least $1,200 per month for the scholar, with an additional $700 for a spouse and $400 for each child if applicable. The financial document must show the scholar’s full name in English. If the financial support is provided by someone other than the scholar, a completed affidavit of support is also required.

Note: If the scholar’s spouse or children intend to travel to MU with the scholar, the scholar must provide the family member’s biographical information (birth date, city and country of birth, relationship to scholar, email address).

Start a new J-1 scholar request Return to existing request

Step 2: International Student and Scholar Services produces DS-2019

• An international scholar adviser will review the request, determine the eligibility of the scholar for J-1 status and prepare the DS-2019.
• ISSS notifies the department that they DS-2019 is ready to be picked up.
• Simultaneously, the J-1 scholar will receive credentials to log in to myStatus, where they will be able to access the J-1 scholar portal. The scholars should take time to review all of the content in this portal, including the pre-arrival checklist and medical insurance information.

Step 3: Department sends the documents to scholar

• Scholar will use these documents to make an appointment at a U.S. embassy/consulate abroad. They will be required to show proof of financial support and citizenship (valid passport) and give a statement regarding the purpose of the visa. If dependents are accompanying the scholar, they also will need to attend the appointment. Note: A scholar who is already in the U.S. in J-1 status must apply for a transfer to MU.
• The scholar will either be granted a J-1 visa, asked for more information or possibly denied the visa. Denial of a visa is difficult to overcome. This is why we request that you ensure all information submitted for the DS-2019 is accurate.

Extending a J-1 program

If a visiting scholar’s DS-2019 will expire soon and the host department plans to extend their stay, a request for extension should be made to International Student and Scholar Services. Note: This information is not applicable to J-1 students.