Applying for a J-1 Visa
The information here refers to the process for applying for a J-1 visa in a student category. If you will be applying for a J-1 visa in any non-student category (e.g. Professor, Research Scholar), please refer to the information on the International Scholar Services pages.
This information should be used as a guideline only. You should be in contact with the U.S. Consulate where you will be applying for your visa for the exact requirements. General information about the J-1 visa status is also available from the U.S. Department of State.
Most (but not all) J-1 students at UND are participants in one of UND's exchange or short term programs with our partner universities. If your institution participates in one of these agreements, please contact your home institution.
Degree-seeking international students are automatically issued paperwork for F-1 status unless a request for J-1 processing is made. Students who are not participating in one of the exchange programs should contact an International Student Advisor to determine whether a J-1 visa is an appropriate fit.
You will need the following documents from UND:
This is the Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status from the Office of International Programs. It will be issued for This form verifies that you have met the eligibility requirements to participate in the exchange program. You will need the DS-2019 form to apply for your J-1 visa. You will also need to show it when you enter the United States.
- Letters regarding financial support from UND
If you are receiving a tuition waiver or tuition reduction as part of an agreement between your home university and UND, you will need a letter explaining this from the Office of International Programs
If you are receiving other types of financial support from the university such as a graduate tuition waiver or stipend from a graduate assistantship, you will need a letter from the granting department detailing the type of funding you are receiving.
How to obtain your form DS-2019
- Complete admissions requirements appropriate to your program
- Provide financial certification in accordance with program requirements
Obtaining DS-2019 forms for dependents
- If you will be bringing your spouse or children with you during your studies, they will need to apply for J-2 status.
- Each dependent will require his or her own DS-2019 form
- Please contact an International Student Advisor if you wish to obtain DS-2019 forms for your dependents.
Preparing for your visa interview
- SEVIS Form DS-2019
- Form DS-160—Online Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application
- All forms can be accessed at the U.S. Department of State website:
- Your Passport
- Photographs
- Nonimmigrant visa application processing fee
- Visa Reciprocity Fee (if applicable)
- Proof of payment of the SEVIS (I-901) fee
- Evidence of financial ability to meet expenses
- Evidence of English ability sufficient for exchange program
- Evidence of residence abroad and intent to depart the United States after the completion of the exchange program
- Review current State Department information to determine if you are required to bring additional documentation to your visa interview
- Be prepared to answer questions honestly and clearly about your program of study, your plans, your finances, your intent to return after your studies. Remember that your visa interview is a conversation not just a review of your documents.
After the Interview
There are three possible outcomes of your visa interview:
- Approved: Your visa is approved. You will receive information from the consular official regarding the production of the visa and approximately when you will receive it. Often your passport with the new visa is sent to your home within a few days.
- Denied: Your visa application is not approved. The consular official will give you a paper with a written explanation of the denial. Be sure to keep the paper. If you choose to pursue the application again, it will be important to have the written information about why you were denied the first time.
- Pending: A decision has not yet been made on your visa application. It may be necessary for the consulate to do an additional background check or clearance, do additional review or your case or you may need to provide the consulate with additional documents. You should be given an explanation in writing telling you what the next steps in your case will be.
In general, the Office of International Programs cannot intervene in the visa application process. However, if you have questions, you are welcome to contact an International Student Advisor at any time.
Note: The consular officer will inform you whether you will be subject to the two-year home country physical presence requirement before issuing a J-1 visa. The consular officer will also discuss the effects of being subject to this requirement.
