Incoming International Graduate Exchange Students conducting Research (Visiting Scholars)- Part A.2

Application Requirements: International graduate students participating in an exchange and exclusively involved in research at Penn State will be classified as visiting scholars and must submit the following application documents: 

  • Demonstrated ability to interact and conduct research in English;
  • Documentation of financial support or funding (minimum amount determined by Penn State annually);  
  • Any additional department requirements.

Visa: The Penn State Office of Global Programs assists visiting scholars, faculty, and staff with immigration related issues. J-1 Professor and Research Scholars may stay up to five 5 years at Penn State under current visa regulations; J-1 Short-Term Scholars may stay for six (6) months. Visiting scholars will work directly with a DISSA advisor to ensure that all visa regulations are followed.

Medical Insurance: Visiting scholars must have medical insurance that meets the guidelines of the J-1 program, including medical evacuation and repatriation of remains. This can be accomplished by purchasing Penn State’s medical insurance plan or my providing proof (in English) of comparable alternate health and accident coverage. For more information, visit the University Health Services website.