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Office of International Programs

Explanation of J-1 Status

What does it mean to be "in status"?
The Department of State (DOS) considers you to be in valid J-1 status if you fulfill all of the conditions of your J-1 visa. The conditions are as follows below.  For more information, please review our Maintaining the J-1 Status (PDF).  

  • Attend the school listed on the DS-2019 you used to enter the US
  • Maintain the validity of your passport and DS-2019 form
  • Maintain good academic standing
  • Maintain sufficient financial resources 
  • Enroll each semester as a full-time student; 12 credits for undergraduate, 9 credits for graduate students per semester. For IHS short-term exchange students, full-time requirement may vary.
  • J-1 exchange students must be enrolled in University Health insurance. For IHS short-term exchange student students, please contact OIP for requirement details. 
  • Work no more than 20 hours per week on-campus while classes are in session with specific written authorization obtained before you begin employment from your J-1 sponsor
  • Work off-campus only with specific written authorization from your J-1 sponsor and approval from OIP for Academic Training.  

Failure to maintain your J-1 status will result in termination of your status which can result in departing the U.S. and may not be able to complete your studies. If you are no longer able to maintain your J-1 status or have violated your J-1 status, please contact OIP immediately for guidance.  

If your J-1 status is terminated for any reason, there are ways to request to regain your status. For more details, please contact OIP for guidance.  

How do I get back in status?
Students who have fallen "out of status", please schedule an appointment with OIP to discuss your sitution.  

When does my J-1 status end?
Your J-1 status ends either on the date listed in #3 on your DS-2019, or when you complete the last requirement for your program of study, whichever comes first. If you are considering withdrawing from your program or if you may be dropped from your program, please consult an OIP advisor as these actions have serious ramifications on your visa status.

How long can I stay in the U.S.?
You may stay in the US for 30 days after completion of your program. You may not work during those 30 days.

Contact Information for the Exchange Visitor Program
OIP is required by the Department of State to provide the contact information for the Exchange Visitor Program to our J-1 Exchange Visitors. They can be contacted via mail, e-mail, and telephone at the following:

United States Department of State
Office of Exchange Coordination and Designation
ECA/EC - SA-44, Room 734
301 4th Street, S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20547
E-mail: [email protected]
Telephone: (202) 203-5029