Non-Degree-Seeking Students
If you want to attend classes at UF but you will not be pursuing a UF degree, you may be eligible for the J-1 non-degree student category.
Students in this category may participate in the following activities at UF:
- Non-degree coursework at UF that may contribute toward a degree or other academic program at a foreign institution.
- Non-degree students are required to pay the current non-resident UF tuition rate (unless otherwise specified through a cooperative agreement), and must be affiliated with UF as “non-degree students.”
- Required internship coursework that contributes toward a degree at a foreign institution.
- Coursework done under an active cooperative agreement/Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between UF and a foreign institution.
Step 1
Admission
First, you must connect with a UF faculty member. Once a UF faculty member has agreed to host your visit, you must then submit a Non-Degree Application with the UF Registrar office. Contact the department you plan to join for instructions on completing the application.
EVS does not assist with matching prospective students with host departments. While we are excited to welcome you to the University of Florida, EVS can only assist with the visa process once your host department submits your J-1 Non-Degree Student Request.
Your UF academic department will send an admission letter to you via email and/or physical mail. This letter must be saved for the visa application process. If you receive an electronic letter, please print the letter in color for use in your visa application.
Step 2
DS-2019 Process
After admission, your academic department will submit a J-1 Non-Degree Student Request for you in the International Center’s portal. The DS-2019 process cannot begin until you have been admitted by UF and this request has been submitted.
Your department will ask you for a few required documents. As part of these required documents, you will be asked to provide proof of funding.
Funding
In addition to non-resident tuition and fees, J-1 non-degree students at UF must demonstrate the following minimum funding for living expenses:
| Type of Individual | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|
| Exchange Visitor (Student on J-1 Visa) | $2,266/month |
| Spouse | $1,000/month |
| Child | $500/month (per child) |
Accepted proof of funding includes:
- Scholarship Letter
- Bank statement in your name showing balance of checking or savings account, or certificates of deposit
- Education Loans
- Certificate of Financial Responsibility for funding from a friend or family member
- Per federal requirements, the proof of funding cannot be in the name of your J-2 spouse, although joint accounts bearing your name are acceptable
All documentation must be in English or accompanied by an English translation.
Sources that will not be accepted as proof of funding include a friend or family member's salary, paycheck, or tax return; credit cards; insurance policies; and non-liquid assets such as property or investment accounts.
After your department submits the J-1 Non-Degree Student Request, EVS will review it within 7 business days. Your EVS advisor may email you to request additional information/documentation prior to issuing your DS-2019.
Step 3
Access to DS-2019
When your DS-2019 has been issued, you will receive an email with instructions for accessing the DS-2019 in the International Center's online portal. This email will also provide information about next steps in the visa process and the check-in process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan ahead! The full process usually takes 3 months or more.
EVS does not assist with housing. Most students in Gainesville (UF main campus) live off campus because on-campus housing is very limited.
Immigration Fees: To apply for the J visa, you must pay the $220 I-901 SEVIS Fee and the $185 visa application fee. Citizens of some countries may be required to pay a reciprocity fee.
Tuition and Fees: J-1 students must pay non-resident tuition and fees. These costs may be waived if you have a scholarship, assistantship, or fellowship.
Living Expenses: You will be required to demonstrate at least $2,266 per month for living expenses. If you bring dependents, you must show an additional $1,000 per month for your spouse and $500 per month for each child. Your personal financial needs may be higher. We also encourage you to review health insurance costs.
Legally married spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21 may join you as J-2 dependents. Parents, siblings, and partners to whom you are not legally married do not qualify for the J-2 visa.