The J-1 Student Intern program is often confused with another J-1 Exchange Visitor category called the "J-1 Student Non-Degree." The table below shows a comparison of the two J-1 Exchange Visitor categories. Host departments are urged to contact an International Scholar Advisor at Berkeley International Office (jscholar@berkeley.edu) to determine the appropriate category in which to invite an undergraduate visiting student researcher.
| J-1 Student Intern | J-1 Student Non-Degree | |
|---|---|---|
| Intent* | The internship fulfills a home country degree requirement. Coursework is allowed in addition to the required 32 hours/week of internship. | The student is engaged in a full-time course of study including classroom and/or research. |
| Home Degree Program Requirements | The intern is enrolled with good academic standing at the home institution and the internship enhances the educational program. | The student is not required to return to home institution educational program. |
| Site of Activity* | Must be UCB and/or site listed prior to arrival on Form DS-2019 and Form DS-7002 (T/IPP). | UCB |
| Funding Source* | Funding can come from any source, including personal funds ($2000/mo minimum funding requirement). | 51% or more of funding must be from non-personal funds ($2000/mo minimum funding requirement plus department fees). |
| Employment & Payment Authorizations | The intern can only be paid and participate in the internship listed on the Form DS-2019, Form DS-7002 (T/IPP), and home university attestation. | Employment not allowed. Student can receive payment for UCB research. |
| Duration of Program | 4 week minimum per UCB Visiting Student Researcher appointment. The maximum duration is 12 months. | 4 week minimum per UCB Visiting Student Researcher appointment. The maximum duration is 24 months. |
| J-1 Services Fees | $1000 | $650 |
| Overall Processing Timeline | 4-6 months | 2-4 months |
* Primary factors determining J-1 category