J-1 Scholar Arrival, Orientation & Check-in
The following webpage provides both requirements for your arrival and first days in the United States.
J-1 Scholar Orientation
You are required to complete the J-1 orientation module through our orientation platform, Homebase. Follow the steps provided to you upon initial issuance of your DS-2019 to create your Homebase account. The J-1 orientation covers essential information on topics including:
- Understanding the J-1 Exchange Visitor Category
- Maintaining immigration status
- Resources to assist with your adjustment to life at Â鶹´«Ã½
Once the orientation is completed, including the post-orientation quiz, a certificate of completion will be sent as an attachment to the email address you used to create your Homebase account to access the course. You must complete the J-1 orientation before checking in with the OISS upon arrival in the U.S. The J-1 Orientation Certificate of Completion is a requirement for your OISS immigration check in.
Entry and Arrival
When planning your arrival, remember that you are eligible to enter the country up to 30 days before the start date listed on your DS-2019.
Be sure to present the DS-2019 and J-1 visa stamp to the immigration official to ensure you enter in J-1 status.
After entering the U.S., access your I-94 on the , and save it for your records. Learn more about the I-94 Record.
Immigration Check-in for J-1 Scholars sponsored by Â鶹´«Ã½
Within 5 days of arrival to the U.S., please complete required check-in with the Office of International Student and Scholar Services (OISS) by emailing the follow to your assigned OISS Scholar Advisor:
- Completed J-1 Exchange Visitor Check-in Form
- JPEG or PDF of the visa page in your passport
- Most recent I-94 Record
- J-1 Orientation Certificate of Completion (sent via email attachment upon completion of the J-1 Orientation course in Homebase)
Email subject: J-1 Scholar Check-in (Last name, First name)
After you have checked in, the OISS will send you an email acknowledging your check-in and other important information.
Note: J-1 Scholars sponsored by Fulbright do not need to check in with OISS. The U.S. State Department manages SEVIS immigration records for J-1 scholars sponsored by Fulbright.
New Employee Checklist for Foreign Nationals
If you will be a paid employee of Â鶹´«Ã½, the New Employee Checklist for Foreign Nationals will help you understand required steps with OISS, Human Resources, and Payroll.
Social Security
If you are being paid by Â鶹´«Ã½ (or any other U.S. institution) you must apply for a Social Security number. You are eligible to apply 10 days after your arrival in the United States.
For application details, visit our webpage on Social Security.