Request DS-2019 Form

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What is a DS-2019 Form?

The DS-2019 or "Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status" is the official document used for administration of the exchange visitor program. It allows a prospective exchange visitor to apply for an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate in order to obtain a J visa to enter the United States. 

On the document, both the exchange visitor and their designated sponsor are listed, along with a brief description of the exchange visitor's program (with start and end date), category of exchange (research scholar, short-term scholar, exchange students, etc.), and an estimated cost of the program. 

More information about the purpose of the DS-2019 can be found here.

How can I apply for one?

After a designated sponsor has been found, they will complete and issue this form to prospective exchange visitors they have screened and selected for the exchange program. Once the exchange visitor has been given the DS-2019, they can apply for the J-1 visa.

It is important to note that even if the DS-2019 has been issued and you have been accepted into a program, the Consular Officers in charge of reviewing visa applications will have the final decision regarding the issuance of a visa. 

At Clemson University, the DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility requests are submitted by the department on behalf of the exchange visitors. 

What is the timeline?

  1. Department invites scholar to Clemson University.
  2. Work with your department to complete and submit the IS-200 Request for DS-2019 for Scholars or IS-201 Request for DS-2019 for J-1 Non-Degree Student to is@clemson.edu.
  3. Please allow International Services up to 10 business days for processing of the IS-200 or IS-201.
  4. The DS-2019 will then be shipped to you along with additional information about the next steps to take.

What to do after receiving DS-2019 Form?

After you receive your form, you may begin the process of applying for a J-1 visa. Please click "How to Apply for Your Visa" on the left for more information.