J-1 Students

We are your resource for information about your J-1 visa.

If you received a DS-2019 from Indiana University Indianapolis, you should apply for a J-1 visa.

J-1 status is primarily for students who come to the United States as exchange visitors. You are an exchange visitor if you are participating in an exchange program and will attend IU Indianapolis for a set time period, usually a semester or an academic year.

Our staff members are experts in visas and immigration. They can help you before you come to IU Indianapolis and while you are here. You have three options to get J-1 visa advising here:

Apply for a Visa

You have to complete several steps to apply for a J-1 visa. We will also help you get J-2 visas for your dependents.

Learn how to apply for a J-1 visa

Maintain Your J-1 Status

You have to stay in J-1 status in order to remain in the United States legally. You are responsible for staying in status. You should pay close attention to all rules and regulations, and we will help you take the appropriate steps to keep your status.

Learn how to maintain your J-1 status

Get Ready for Employment

J-1 students can get jobs, but off-campus employment requires authorization and on-campus employment has restrictions. We will help you understand what you need to do.

Learn about employment

Prepare to Complete Your Program

You should start thinking about your post-graduation plans by the beginning of your final semester. Restrictions will affect what you can do—for example, you may be required to fulfill a two-year home residency requirement. We will help you fulfill all of your obligations before you leave, and we will help you prepare for what is next.

Make post-graduation plans