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Choosing the right J-1 category is one of the most important first steps in building a successful exchange. IREX helps hosts, advisors, institutions, and prospective exchange visitors understand which BridgeUSA category may align with the proposed activity, participant background, host environment, and timing.

About BridgeUSA: BridgeUSA is the U.S. Department of State’s Exchange Visitor Program. It supports educational and cultural exchange by connecting international participants with structured opportunities in the United States. J-1 exchange programs are designed for learning, training, research, teaching, observation, consultation, and cross-cultural engagement—not ordinary employment.

• Intern: For foreign university students or recent graduates seeking structured, entry-level, work-based learning in their occupational field for up to 12 months.
• Trainee: For foreign professionals seeking guided, skills-based training in their occupational field for up to 18 months. Eligibility generally requires a degree plus at least one year of related experience, or at least five years of related experience without a degree.
• Research Scholar: For professors, researchers, postgraduate students, postdoctoral fellows, doctors, or similar participants entering the United States primarily to conduct research, observe, or consult for up to five years.
• Short-Term Scholar: For time-bound academic or professional engagements such as lecturing, observing, consulting, training, or demonstrating special skills for up to six months, with no extensions.
• Professor: For foreign nationals whose primary purpose is teaching, lecturing, observing, or consulting at an accredited post-secondary institution, museum, library, or similar organization. Research may be permitted if consistent with program objectives.
• Specialist: For experts in a field of specialized knowledge or skill who come to the United States to observe, consult, or demonstrate their expertise as part of an exchange of knowledge and skills with U.S. counterparts.
• University Student: For eligible university-level study or exchange opportunities, when aligned with sponsor requirements and program objectives.

Not sure which category applies? IREX can review the proposed activity, host organization, participant profile, and timeline to help identify the most appropriate pathway.

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