Welcome! 

The J-1 Exchange Visitor Program, established under the Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961 (Fulbright–Hays Act), is managed by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Its goal is to promote mutual understanding through educational and cultural exchanges between people of the United States and other countries.

At Abilene Christian University (ACU), eligible professors and research scholars may be sponsored as J-1 exchange visitors when their activities support these objectives, (from 22 CFR 62.20(b)):

• Stimulate international collaboration and exchange of ideas

• Engage in teaching, lecturing, and research alongside American colleagues

• Participate in cross-cultural events with the U.S. community

• Share knowledge and experiences with home-country peers to broaden perspectives

J-1 scholars must have a designated U.S. sponsor and their participation must align with approved program objectives and institutional goals. For further details, see the Department of State’s BridgeUSA website.

The Office of International Students and Visiting Scholars provides immigration, cultural and social support for departments and scholars to ensure compliance with relevant federal and state regulations and university policies, to facilitate a smooth entry and a successful research or teaching experience at ACU. 

In the following pages, you will find the basic immigration requirements, along with tips on how to welcome and host your scholar well.

Please note that all individuals whose primary purpose in coming to the U.S. is for academic research should enter the U.S. as a J-1 exchange visitor. The B-2 visitor visa (or ESTA for some) is specifically for activities related to pleasure, tourism, visiting family or friends, or receiving medical treatment. Employment, paid or unpaid academic work, and formal study are strictly prohibited by the U.S. federal laws.

J-1 exchange visitors are expected to return home after completing their program. The J-1 classification is not intended for permanent employment; tenure or tenure-track positions are not permitted under this visa category. This restriction should be clearly stated in the letter of invitation for any J-1 scholar who will also serve as an ACU employee.

If your department intends to employ a foreign national in a more permanent capacity, the H-1B visa category must be pursued instead by contacting the Office of General Counsel.

All departments wishing to host a J scholar or professor should set up a consulting appointment with Lucy Dawson at your convenience. Email Lucy Dawson at lld09a@acu.edu to schedule. Please see the overview in the following pages.

Contact the OSIVS at oisvs@groupmail.acu.edu or Lucy Dawson at lld09a@acu.edu for additional support and guidance on J-1 Exchange Visitor related questions.