Academic Programs
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who usually applies for the Program?
- How do I apply?
- How may I be accepted?
- In order to be considered, do I need to pass the TOEFL?
- Does a Visiting Scholar pay a fee?
- Are there any scholarships available?
- If I am accepted, what should I do to prepare?
- How do I get a visa?
- If I came as a Visiting Scholar, could I bring my family?
- How long may a Visiting Scholar do research at the Levin College of Law?
- May a Visiting Scholar get an extension to study for a longer period?
- May a Visiting Scholar attend law school classes?
- How much interaction may a Visiting Scholar have with faculty and students?
- What responsibilities does a Visiting Scholar have?
- Are there opportunities to study English as a Visiting Scholar?
- How do I find out about Gainesville?
- How do I find out more about the University of Florida and Levin College of Law?
- My question was not answered.
Who usually applies for the Program?
Any serious researcher may apply. In the past, applicants have been judges, professors, lawyers, Ph.D. law students and various government officials.
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How do I apply?
After approved sponsorship, applicants are encouraged to review the UF International Center Exchange Visitor website at http://ufic.ufl.edu/evs.html prior to submitting their application via email to Levin College of Law International Programs Department at intlprogs@law.ufl.edu. At that time, please provide a current resumé, two letters of recommendation, and a personal statement explaining your area of research and why you are interested in the University of Florida as a place to do your research.
How may I be accepted?
After all application materials are received, the packet is distributed to International Programs Committee members for review and consideration. The Committee reviews Visiting Scholar applications on a rolling basis. It is recommended applicants submit material six months in advance of the anticipated visit.
In order to be considered, do I need to pass the TOEFL?
Currently no TOEFL is required to be considered as a Visiting Scholar. However, the law school expects that Scholars have a good understanding of English for productive research and effective communication with other scholars, faculty and students.
Does a Visiting Scholar pay a fee?
Yes, there is a $100 per month fee payable in advance or within 30 days following acceptance.
Are there any scholarships available for research?
No scholarships or stipends are available. The Visiting Scholar is responsible for all expenses associated with his/her stay. Most Visiting Scholars are funded by their governments, businesses, or universities.
If I am accepted, what should I do to prepare?
If accepted our policy is to assist the visitor to obtain with obtaining J1 visa; if family members will accompany the visitor we will also assist visitors with obtaining J2 dependent visas. There are forms to complete and detailed information will be requested. Please review the Exchange Visitor requirements outlined on the University of Florida International Center website and particularly the information on the Current or Prospective Exchange Visitors section.
It is important to communicate with the Program Assistant at intlprogs@law.ufl.edu to receive detailed information on the appropriate visa process and other required paperwork. Below is a partial listing of the administrative requirements:
- Accept offer of Research Visit by signing letter of invitation
- Pay appropriate program fee
- Coordinate with Program Assistant to complete DS2019 forms
- Provide copies of all academic transcripts and degrees
- Provide proof of financial resources to meet UF minimum requirements
- Provide proof of medical/health insurance to meet UF minimum requirements
Prior to arrival scholars should obtain a credit card, laptop computer and begin to research possible housing arrangements.
How do I get a visa?
Concerning a visa, you have two choices: 1.) obtain a visa on your own 2.) Have the Program Assistant for International Programs help you with paper work for a J-1 visa. The J-1 will allow you to stay in the U.S. for an entire year, if desired. Please review the previous section on preparing for a visit.
If I came as a Visiting Scholar, could I bring my family?
Yes. The Program Assistant for the International Programs Department can help with J2 dependent visa paperwork for immediate family members. For visitors with school age children, information on local school registration can be found at the School Board of Alachua County’s website.
How long may a Visiting Scholar do research at the Levin College of Law?
A Visiting Scholar may conduct research for up to one year, although some scholars come for a shorter period of time.
May a Visiting Scholar get an extension to study for a longer period?
Because of limited space and the number of applicants each year, it is not our policy to allow extensions.
May a Visiting Scholar attend law school classes?
Yes, a Visiting Scholar may attend law school classes with permission of professors. Of course, no credit is given for attendance.
How much interaction may a Visiting Scholar have with faculty and students?
Both faculty and students are interested in Visiting Scholars. Visiting Scholars are encouraged to attend faculty colloquia and luncheons, and interact with students in the International Law Society.
What responsibilities does a Visiting Scholar have?
Other than personal research, a Visiting Scholar is required to give a presentation or lecture on his/her topic to either faculty or students. This is the International Programs Committee’s attempt to give more exposure to Visiting Scholars and to foster interest in world cultures. Projects written as a result of this research scholar project should acknowledge the use of resources at the UF Levin College of Law.
Are there opportunities to study English as a Visiting Scholar?
There are several opportunities, ranging from free evening classes in several locations around Gainesville, to more formal classes through the English Language Institute or Santa Fe Community College.
How do I find out about Gainesville?
Look at the official website for Gainesville, the Gainesville Sun newspaper online, or the Gainesville Area Chamber of Commerce website. You can buy Gainesville-related publications (maps, apartment guides) on the Chamber of Commerce website.
How do I find out more about the University of Florida and the College of Law?
- Levin College of Law website
- University of Florida webpage
- International Center on main campus
- University of Florida International Student Organizations website
My question was not answered.
Please contact the Program Assistant if you have any further questions at intlprogs@law.ufl.edu or by phone at 352-273-0777.