University of California, Santa Barbara

Office of International Students & Scholars - Santa Barbara, CA 93106-7150 Telephone (805) 893-2929 Fax (805) 893-7132


Research Scholar and Professor



J-1 Scholar Categories

The Research Scholar category is defined as:
An individual primarily conducting research, observing, or consulting in connection with a research project at research institutions, corporate research facilities, museums, libraries, post-secondary accredited educational institutions, or similar types of institutions. The research scholar may also teach or lecture, unless disallowed by the sponsor.[22 C.F.R. 62.4(e)]*(Add footnote to Federal Regulation Code)

The Professor category is defined as
An individual primarily teaching, lecturing, observing, or consulting at post-secondary accredited educational institutions, museums, libraries, or similar types of institutions. A professor may also conduct research, unless disallowed by the sponsor. [ 22 C.F.R. 62.4(e)]* (Add Footnote to Federal Regulation Code)

The Research Scholar and Professor categories are nearly identical, with the exception to the primary academic intent to conduct research or to lecture. Both categories require the exchange visitor to have appropriate academic credentials. The sponsoring Department at UCSB will determine the exchange visitor academic level and credentials before he/she is allowed to engage in the proposed academic activities.

  • Duration in the Research Scholar and Professor categories ranges from three weeks minimum to the maximum duration of five years.
  • Tenure or “Tenure Track” positions are restricted in Research Scholar and Professor categories.
  • The 12 month and 24 month bar applies to the Research Scholar and Professor categories.
  • 212(E) Two Year Home Residency Requirement may apply.