Next Steps

Visa & Entry Requirements for J-1 Scholars 

• Prospective scholars must use the DS-2019 to:

  • Pay the SEVIS fee

  • Apply for a J-1 visa at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate

Entry to the United States

• Scholars may enter the U.S. no more than 30 days before their program start date.
  
  

• Scholars must arrive no later than 20 days after the program start date listed on their DS-2019.
  
  

Delayed Arrival

• If arrival will be delayed, notify internationalSVS@groupmail.acu.edu.
  
  

• An amendment request must also be submitted to ll09a@acu.edu to issue a new DS-2019 with updated program dates.
  
  

Check-In & Orientation

• Check-In: Scholars must complete the International Scholar Immigration Check-In in person as soon as possible after arriving in the U.S.
  
  

• Orientation: J-1 Scholar Orientation is scheduled individually and held upon appointment after arrival.
  
  

Maintaining J-1 Status

J-1 Scholars at ACU are responsible for ensuring they remain in valid J-1 status throughout their stay. Scholars must:

• Follow all requirements outlined on the Maintaining Immigration Status page
  
  

• Take necessary steps to remain in compliance with U.S. Department of State regulations
  
  

⚠ Failure to maintain J-1 status may result in program cancellation and termination of the DS-2019.

Reporting Responsibilities

For ACU Host Departments

Departments must promptly report any changes to a scholar’s program to OISVS. Examples include:

• Program withdrawal or early departure

• Change in supervisor

• Modification of site of activity

• Updates to funding

• Biographical changes

• J-1 scholar incident reporting
  
  

For J-1 Scholars

Scholars must report the following to OISVS to remain in compliance:

• Residential address

• Personal phone number