Through the Exchange Visitor Program, international exchange visitors may enter the United States temporarily to teach, lecture, study, observe, conduct research, consult, train or demonstrate special skills. “The purpose of the program is to provide foreign nationals with opportunities to participate in educational and cultural programs in the United States and return home to share their experiences and to encourage Americans to participate in educational and cultural programs in other countries.” [CFR 22 62.1 (b)]   

The U.S. Department of State has provided more details about the J-1 exchange visitor's program in their Welcome Brochure for exchange visitors.

ISSS has created a Welcome Handbook for our international scholar community that includes many practical resources and considerations for living in the U.S.