The J-1 Visitor Exchange Program at Jackson State University

Jackson State University serves as a sponsor for the J-1 Exchange Visitors program. Managed by the US Department of State, this program exists “to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries by means of educational and cultural exchanges.” (Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act / Fulbright -Hayes Act of 1961).

Visitors in possession of a J-1 (J-2 visa for their dependents) are a vital part of the community at Jackson State University. They are students, scholars, instructors and researchers contributing to our mission of promoting greater cultural understanding in an intellectual environment that recognizes and celebrates cultural diversity. J-1 exchange visitors stay in the United States for periods as short as a few weeks or as long as several years.

Please note : Exchange visitors in possession of a J-1 visa cannot be candidates for tenure track faculty positions.

The J-1 Visa and Form DS2029

An applicant for a J-1 visa must meet specific requirements. In order to apply for a J-1 visa, applicants are issued a Form DS 2019, also known as a Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status. In order to apply for a DS2019, the potential exchange visitor should complete the form linked here and send it to the appropriate Responsible Officer at Jackson State University.

Please note : It will take approximately 7 – 10 business days to process a DS2019 from the time that all documents are received by our office. Please plan accordingly.

The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System and Responsible Officers

Also known as SEVIS, the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System maintains electronic records for international visitors of various visa categories. The staff members who maintain these records for the J-1 Exchange program are called Responsible or Alternate Responsible Officers. J-1 scholars must schedule an appointment with the Responsible Officer or Alternate Responsible Officer upon their arrival to Jackson State University in order to update their records and validate participation in the exchange program. Responsible Officers must also be notified immediately of any changes to a visitor’s program, such as an address change or a request to shorten or extend participation in an exchange program.

There are certain restrictions unique to the J-1 visa exchange program. For more information, please visit the Department of State’s website linked here.