/Office of Global Affairs
Visa and Immigration Services

J-1 Student Program Overview

 

The J-1 Exchange Visitor Program allows international students to study in the United States through approved educational and cultural exchange programs. At Stony Brook University, J-1 students must follow federal regulations related to enrollment, employment, health insurance, travel, and maintaining valid immigration documents.

Am I Eligible for J-1 Status?

At Stony Brook University, J-1 status is typically used for students who:

  • Receive funding from a government or international organization
  • Participate in a formal university exchange agreement
  • Are Fulbright students transferring sponsorship to Stony Brook University

Students who do not meet these requirements are generally issued a Form I-20 and study in F-1 status instead.

Your Program Sponsor

Visa and Immigration Services (VIS) serves as your J-1 program sponsor. We issue and maintain your Form DS-2019, process immigration requests, and help you understand the requirements and benefits of J-1 status.

Maintaining Your J-1 Status Checklist

  • Complete Check-In: Report your arrival to Stony Brook University by completing the International Student Check-In process in accessVIS after arriving in the United States.
  • Carry Your Immigration Documents: You are required to carry a copy of your passport, DS-2019 and Form I-94, at all times.
  • Maintain Full-Time Enrollment: Enroll full-time every required semester (fall & spring), unless you receive prior authorization for a reduced course load.
  • Limit Online Courses: Follow J-1 enrollment rules for online and distance education courses each semester.
  • Make Normal Academic Progress: Continue making progress toward completing your degree requirements.
  • Monitor Your Program End Date: Complete your program before the end date listed on your Form DS-2019. If you need more time, request a DS-2019 extension before your current document expires.
  • Keep Your Immigration Documents Valid: Maintain a valid passport and Form DS-2019 at all times.
  • Maintain Required Health Insurance: You and your J-2 dependents must maintain health insurance that meets U.S. Department of State requirements for the entire duration of your J program.
  • Update Your U.S. Address and Contact Information: Report any change of your U.S. residential address in SOLAR and contact information in accessVIS within 10 days.
  • Renew Travel Signature As Needed: Before traveling internationally, make sure your Form DS-2019 has a valid travel signature for your return to the United States.
  • Obtain Authorization Before Working: Do not work on-campus or off-campus unless you receive authorization in advance from Visa and Immigration Services.
  • Follow Grace Period Rules: Understand and follow the J-1 grace period rules after completing your program or ending your J-1 status.
  • Follow U.S. Laws: Follow all local, state, and federal laws while in the United States. Violations may affect your immigration status and future immigration benefits.
  • Ask for Help if You Have Questions: Contact Visa and Immigration Services before taking any action that may affect your J-1 status.