Yes. For example, a Department-designated university can sponsor a J-1 Research Scholar to conduct research at a STEM business. This includes STEM start-ups.
FAQ Category: Higher Education Institutions
Yes. The school may place the J-1 research scholar with an off-campus host as long as the research scholar is conducting research consistent with their original program objectives. The host organization does not need to have any affiliation with the school. Examples include a startup that is affiliated with a faculty member of the school … Read more
Yes. Department-designated sponsors must have robust procedures in place to confirm the legitimacy of any host organization, lab, or office that will serve as a host their exchange visitors. Research scholars may receive wages or other remuneration as long as the individual is conducting research consistent with their original program objectives. STEM placements meet the … Read more
Yes. A J-1 research scholar may continue their research off campus with a host organization if the primary objective of the exchange will remain the same (e.g., continuation of original research goals). Sponsors must add the additional site of activity in the exchange visitor’s SEVIS record and may amend the length of an exchange visitor’s … Read more
Once you connect with a Department-designated sponsor, it will be your primary resource and implementing partner for the duration of the exchange. It can guide you through the recruitment and sponsorship of exchange visitors for your organization. It will inform you of your roles and responsibilities as a host organization.First, the sponsor will work with … Read more
This initiative aims to promote a global perspective for U.S.-based STEM businesses interested in transforming their operations with international exchange. This results in diversified teams, enhanced innovation, and enhanced and increased global network opportunities. Participating organizations may gain a competitive edge in our global economy with the perspectives and skillsets of international visitors, particularly in … Read more
Host organizations provide research, training, teaching or internship opportunities in the United States on behalf of a designated sponsor pursuant to an executed written agreement with the sponsor. Host organizations are where exchange visitors conducting training or research in a STEM-related field or industry are placed. Visit the BridgeUSA website, for additional information on host … Read more
Providing off-campus opportunities will increase a university’s connection with STEM businesses in your community. Current trends in international education continue to show that exchange visitors are increasingly seeking professional development and hands-on experience in their chosen fields of research and study. STEM students and scholars are especially keen about practical research and training experience in … Read more
Sponsors are designated by the U.S. Department of State to conduct exchange visitor programs. There are approximately 1,450 private sector, academic, and federal, state, and local government entities currently designated as sponsors who conduct 15 categories of exchange programs. This includes the seven categories which are eligible to participate in the STEM Initiative: College and … Read more
Below are some concrete examples of how sponsors are implementing the STEM initiative in the Trainee category, based on a March 2023 data snapshot. All exchange visitors are on a STEM exchange connected to a Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List.