Category changes

All J-1 exchange visitors are in one of the following nine categories: college/university student; trainee; teacher; professor or research scholar; short-term scholar; specialist; medical trainee; international visitor; secondary school student. Generally, an exchange visitor may not change from one category to another; however, under exceptional and unusual circumstances it may be possible to apply to the Department of State for permission for certain category changes. This application process usually takes several months.