In order to participate in the Study America Program, candidates must be professionals in their fields whose careers will benefit from the proposed program. Their experience shall foster the exchange of ideas between Americans and foreign nationals and stimulate international collaborative exchange of ideas and culture. Positions must be temporary in nature, not exceeding the permitted duration of stay as stipulated by Federal Regulations.
Host institutions requesting IIE’s services must carefully review the candidate’s vitae, references, publications, objectives and means of providing a mutually beneficial program. The Exchange Visitor and host institution must have compatible program goals.
The host institutions should identify ways in which the Exchange Visitor can further contribute to the institution. Specialists, trainees, professors, researchers and short-term scholars may receive payment for services rendered at the institution where the program is to take place. The above materials and program description must be submitted to IIE for review. IIE will determine if the candidate’s qualifications are sufficient and that the program is appropriate.
The host institution must determine that candidates have adequate English language skills to achieve the stated objectives. If proficiency is not known, institutions should ask prospective visitor to submit an English Proficiency Report or by phone interview conducted by IIE.
Before non- immigrant visa documentation can be issued, IIE must obtain documentation that the participant has financial resources sufficient to meet living expenses. Acceptable documents include a letter from the institution outlining funding to be provided or bank statements in U.S. dollars or letters in English, from the participant (if participant is using personal funds). Living expenses vary from region to region, however a general estimate of living expenses for one year is $15,000.
Exchange Visitors must show an additional $5,000/year if accompanied by a spouse and $3,000/year for each accompanying child. Documentation will not be issued until proof is submitted to IIE. J-1 Exchange Visitor program regulations require all participants and their J-2 dependents to maintain health insurance coverage that meets regulatory minimum levels. The Exchange Visitor must be provided with coverage or purchase their own coverage. The policy must provide benefits of at least $50,000.00 for medical costs, cover costs of repatriation in the event of death or disability, and must cover costs incurred in the area of the country where your institution is located. Proof of such coverage must be submitted to IIE. IIE offers a private insurance program that meets the J-1 insurance regulations.
Exchange Visitors must return to their home countries and careers abroad at the conclusion of their program at the host institution. It is hoped that they will carry with them not only the expertise gained but also impressions and experiences. Host institutions should make every effort to assist the Exchange Visitor in adjusting to living in a different educational community and cultural setting. It may be necessary to explain many aspects of American institutions, culture, etc. On a practical level, the Exchange visitor will need assistance in finding suitable housing (if not provided), acquiring telephone service, etc. A representative should be assigned to assist in these matters.
The completed REQUEST FOR DS-2019/J-1 STATUS SPONSORSHIP should be submitted, along with the candidate’s resume and documentation of financial support, to the Study America Program Senior Program Coordinator at IIE. A letter of agreement will be sent to the host institution. Once payment is received, documentation will be sent to the exchange visitor by express mail service.
Any questions or for further guidance, please contact the Study America Program Senior Program Coordinator at (212) 984-5504 or send an e-mail to studyamerica@iie.org |
