Changes and Extensions
OIS relies on a close partnership – and frequent communication - with faculty supervisors of J-1 Research Scholars. OIS is responsible for updating and authorizing reportable events in SEVIS, but OIS often knows of changes in a scholar’s program only if and when the supervisor, departmental personnel representative, or the scholar notifies us. Please contact us whenever there is a question, problem, or substantive change to a scholar’s research program or circumstances.
Research Scholars are required to update their address information with OIS immediately if they change their residence. This can be done in person, via email, or the OIS HelpDesk. Research Scholars are also usually the first to tell us of an early completion/departure, an approved change of status (e.g., to H-1B), or request to transfer to another program sponsor, but we depend on departmental personnel to confirm or certify critical changes.
Departments should submit a complete Request for DS-2019 (and supporting documents) under the following circumstances:
- New Program for overseas scholar (who has not been in J-1 status for preceding 2 years)
- Extension of Program for same research project/objectives
- Transfer-in of a J-1 Research Scholar currently sponsored by another program sponsor
Departments may submit a complete Request for DS-2019 (and supporting documents) – OR submit the J1 Research Scholar Amendment Form - in the following circumstances:
- Early Departure (more than 30 days before end date on DS-2019)
- Change in Pay Status/RateChange in pay amount (more than 15%)
- Change in “site of activity” (give full physical address)
- Change in primary supervisor/PI
- Delay in New Program (often caused by visa delay or professional reasons)
Scholars are free to schedule an appointment (call 515-2961 for available days and times) with an OIS advisor for immigration counseling or to consult about family or personal matters. Scholars are encouraged to bring their supervisor with them to any advising appointment. Unfortunately, scholars are not permitted to use student fee based services such as Student Health Services (with the exception of those who are in Post-Doc positions) or Student Legal Services. Scholars should direct their medical questions or needs to an off-campus health provider and legal questions to a private attorney.
Scholars may be directed to the Office of Post-Doctoral Affairs (OPA) in the Graduate School for professional assistance and certain other issues.
Supervisors and departmental staff are also encouraged to schedule an appointment with an OIS advisor to discuss a current or possible research scholar’s circumstances. Important changes or concerns regarding a research scholar’s program or circumstances (or his/her dependents) should be brought to the attention of OIS.