Office of International
Programs and Services

J-1 Students

George Mason University hosts J-1 Exchange Visitors in the classifications of non-degree, undergraduate, and graduate students.  Students are admitted to George Mason University as part of a regular degree program by their college or admitted as non-degree students as part of various exchange agreements set up by the Center for Global Education, College of Education and Human Development, College of Humanities and Social Sciences or the Provost’s Office.

• J-1 Students are partially or wholly funded by their own government, the U.S. government, or their university. 
• J-1 Students are expected to register for a full course load each semester; 9 credits for graduate students, 12 credits for undergraduate students.  Students with Academic or Medical Issues may receive permission for a Reduced Course Load with documentation from the Academic Advisor, Mental Health Counselor, or Physician.

J Student Reduced Course Load Packet

• J-1 Students may work on campus if they are maintaining a least a 2.0 GPA for undergraduates and a 3.0 GPA for graduate students. 
• J-1 Students must attend orientation in the semester they expect to begin their new program, even if they are transfer-in students from another university.
• J-1 Students must apply for a program extension no later than the end date on the DS-2019 if they will not be able to complete their academic program.  The extension includes an explanation from the Academic Advisor and proof of funding to cover the additional time needed for themselves and their dependents. 

J-1 Program Extension

• J-1 Students in good standing can use Academic Training to work in their field of study for up to 18 months for bachelors and masters students, and 36 months for PhD students. Non-degree students may apply for Academic Training equal to the time spent in J-1 student status.

Academic Training Application Packet for J-1 Students