The University of California, Davis School of Law is pleased to welcome visiting scholars to our law school to engage in research for up to one year. Scholars join a vibrant academic community of outstanding faculty, scholars, and students at one of the top U.S. research universities.
Scholars accepted into the Visiting Scholars Program have access to an array of resources to support them as they engage in their research at the UC Davis School of Law.
These include the following:
- Full access to the School of Law Mabie Library and its research resources, both online and onsite
- With the permission of the instructor and based on space available, the ability to audit a class(es) in their field
- An individual carrel in the Mabie Library to undertake research
- Participation in the law school’s rich intellectual community including noon-time lectures and conferences with distinguished experts in their fields
- Participation in all international law program social events and activities as a member of the School of Law global community
Scholars also are expected to contribute their knowledge to the School of Law community. Each year, scholars will give a presentation at a UC Davis School of Law Scholar’s Annual Roundtable for members of the law school community. Scholars may also be asked to share their knowledge in classes or in special activities. Scholars provide a brief quarterly report about their research progress.
In order to gain the greatest benefit from their visit, and in accordance with J-1 visa requirements, Visiting Scholars are expected to predominantly engage in in-person program activities. While some of the research activities may be conducted remotely, scholars should be present at the law school on a regular basis, typically every week: https://siss.ucdavis.edu/j-1-visa
Fees
Visiting Scholars and Visiting Ph.D. Researchers are required to pay a Visiting Scholar Program Fee of $1,500 per semester.
Visa Information
The department responsible for issuing DS-2019 forms (the certificate of eligibility for J-1 Exchange Visitor status) charges a visa administration fee of $727. If you are accepted into the program, you will receive instructions on how to obtain your DS-2019 form. You will then use this document to apply for a J-1 visa at the U.S. embassy or consulate serving your jurisdiction.
Financial Documentation Requirements
To obtain a DS-2019, applicants must provide documentation demonstrating sufficient financial support for living expenses during their stay.
Minimum funding requirements:
| Visitor Type | Required Funding |
| Visitor only | $2,400 per month |
| Spouse | Additional $800 per month |
| Each child | Additional $400 per month |
For additional information regarding the J-1 visa process, please visit the UC Davis Services for International Students and Scholars (SISS) website: https://siss.ucdavis.edu/j-1-visa
Health Insurance Requirements
All visitors must maintain health insurance that meets U.S. Department of State requirements throughout the duration of their program. If you do not already have qualifying coverage, UC Davis Services for International Students and Scholars (SISS) partners with Gallagher to provide health insurance options for J-1 visitors and their dependents: https://siss.ucdavis.edu/health-insurance-j-1. Enrollment instructions will be provided by SISS after acceptance into the program.
Application
Applications are accepted throughout the year.
To express interest in the program, please send the following materials:
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Brief research proposal or project description
- Requested dates of participation
Email: [email protected]
We strongly encourage applicants to submit materials a minimum of at least three months before their intended start date.