J-1 Categories

The specific purpose of a scholar's visit, along with their credentials and education, are used to determine the appropriate J category. While we request that the hosting department make a recommendation as to which category is most appropriate, the International Services office is able to offer assistance and guidance as needed. Please review the category descriptions below and contact our office with any questions.

  • Short-Term Scholar

    Short-Term Scholar: An individual sponsored by a Clemson department to join the University as a short-term scholar enters the US for a short-term visit for the purpose of lecturing, observing, consulting, training, or instructing in special skills. If extensions beyond 6 months are possible, a different category is recommended.

    • Duration: 1 day to 6 months
    • Minimum Education Requirement: Bachelor's degree
  • Research Scholar

    Research Scholar:  An individual sponsored by a Clemson department to join the University for the purpose of conducting research, observing, or consulting on a research project. A Research Scholar may also teach or lecture at the discretion of the sponsor.

    • Duration: 3 weeks to 5 years
    • Minimum Education Requirement: Bachelor's degree
  • Professor

    Professor:  An individual sponsored by a Clemson department to join the University for the purpose of teaching or lecturing. A Professor may conduct research at the discretion of the sponsor.

    • Duration: 3 weeks to 5 years
    • Minimum Education Requirement: Bachelor's degree
  • Specialist

    Specialist (rarely used):  A specialist is an expert in a field of specialized knowledge/skill that is sponsored by a Clemson department for the purpose of observing, consulting, or demonstrating the special knowledge or skill.

    • Duration: 3 weeks to 12 months
    • Minimum Education Requirement: N/A
  • Student Non-Degree

    Student Non-Degree (rarely used): A visiting student in a prescribed course of study in an academic program with a specific educational objective. Such course of study may include research projects, classroom instruction, and/or academic training. Must be engaged full time.

    • Duration: 3 weeks to 24 months
    • Minimum Education Requirement: N/A
    • Funding Requirement: At least 50% or more must be non-personal (home institution, Clemson, government, etc.) or there must be an MOU in place.
  • Student Intern

    Student Intern:  A visiting student currently enrolled at a postsecondary academic institution outside the U.S. (usually pursuing bachelor’s degree or equivalent). The internship at Clemson must be used to fulfill education objectives for their current degree program outside the U.S. Please complete the IS-201 request instead.

    • Duration: 3 weeks to 12 years
    • Minimum Education Requirement: N/A