J-1 Students

The J-1 student category is an option for students who receive qualifying financial sponsorship or who are participating in a formal university exchange program. Once we receive the required admission, biographical, and financial documentation, you will receive a Stony Brook issued Form DS-2019.

Length of Permitted Stay

As a student in J-1 status, you are admitted to the U.S. for “D/S” (duration of status). This allows you to stay until the end date reflected on your Form DS-2019, as long as you enroll in and complete a full course of study each required term, maintain legal status, and have a SEVIS record in good standing.

If you finish your program early, your DS-2019 will be adjusted. At the end of your program, J-1 status permits a 30 day grace period for you to depart the U.S.

Important Considerations

Limited work permission is available for on-campus employment and off-campus academic training related to your major field of study. Qualifying family members may be eligible for J-2 dependent status.

The intent of the Exchange Visitor Program is for the home country to benefit from the J-1 Exchange Visitor’s experiences in the U.S. Accordingly, J-1 Exchange Visitors and their accompanying J-2 dependents may be subject to a two-year home residency requirement.