Visiting Scholars Program

LSU hosts nearly 100 visiting scholars from around the world at any given time, through the US Department of State’s J-1 Exchange Visitor Program. The J-1 Exchange Visitor Program is designed for temporary educational and cultural exchanges and collaboration rather than long term employment. Exchange visitors are expected to return to their home countries at the end of their participation in the program to share their experience.   

J-1 Scholar Overview

Scholar participants in the J-1 program come to LSU to teach, conduct collaborative research, observe, consult, or demonstrate specialized knowledge and skill. The presence of Exchange Visitors at LSU promotes diversity and awareness of other cultures, peoples, and languages; and a greater understanding, appreciation, and respect for other cultures. LSU’s visiting scholar program provides valuable experiences and opportunities for long-term collaboration for both visiting scholars and the LSU community.

J-1 Student Intern Overview 

The U.S. Department of State allows students who are enrolled in degree programs at home universities outside the US to be sponsored for internships as J-1 Student Interns in the US. LSU uses the J-1 Student Intern category for undergraduate students from academic institutions outside the US coming to LSU to engage in internship activities. Student interns may participate in a student internship program for up to 12 months for each degree/major. 

B-1 Visa Overview

Visitors coming to LSU to conduct independent research, to consult, observe, or to participate in similar activities on a temporary basis come on a B visa or the Visa Waiver Program.