Scholar (J) Program Basics

U. S. Government Regulations

This page is an abbreviated introduction to the complicated regulations that govern exchange visitors to the United States. These regulations change often; therefore, please contact the global education office with any questions you might have.

Exchange Visitor Program

Hampshire College is designated as a sponsor of the J-1 Exchange Visitors Program by the Department of State (DOS). The purpose of this program is to promote international education and cultural exchanges in collaboration with universities around the world. Hampshire College is permitted to sponsor visitors in the following categories: professor, research scholar, short-term scholar, or university/college student. For more information about the Exchange Visitor Program and its requirements, please visit Exchange Visitor visas on the U.S. Department of State website.

Other Visa Types

B-1/B-2 Visas (Visitor visas for business or pleasure)

May be appropriate for visitors who are coming to Hampshire College for fewer than 9 days and whose lecture or consultation at Hampshire College is incidental to their visit to the United States. This also applies to visitors currently in the U.S. in the B-1/B-2 category. Inquiries regarding reimbursement, payment, and honorarium procedures should be directed to the controller's office. For more information about the B-1/B-2 visa, please visit the Department of State Website.

Visa Waiver Program (VWP)

Allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the United States without a visa for stays of 90 days or less, when they meet all requirements. Visit Visa Waiver Program website for more information provided by the U.S. Department of State.

TN (Mexican and Canadian NAFTA professional workers)

May be appropriate for citizens of Mexico or Canada looking temporarily to visit the United States to work. For more information about the TN visa, please visit the Department of State Website.

Health and Accident Insurance

All J-1 exchange visitors are required to carry health insurance that meets the following criteria:

The global education office will assist J-1 exchange visitors understand and navigate this requirement.

Department of State Welcome Brochure

The Department of State (DOS) created a welcome brochure providing information regarding the J-1 exchange visitor program. 

Here is the Welcome Brochure.