Visiting International Scholars

We understand that navigating the rules and requirements for studying abroad can be very difficult. Therefore, we strive to make the application process as easy as possible for anyone interested in attending UNC in the Visiting International Scholars (VIS) program.

Below you will find a list of documents needed to apply to our VIS program beginning with our application. Please send all correspondence to songlobalhealth@unc.edu.

• Application is available here. 
• Current CV
• There are two options where an English test is not needed.
• 1) If you completed a bachelor’s or graduate degree within the past 10 years at a recognized institution of higher learning in the U.S. a copy of the diploma or transcript indicating degree conferred will suffice.
• 2) If you graduated from a country outside the U.S. within the past 10 years where the language of instruction is English, an English transcript showing degree conferred and when is sufficient. If the transcript does not state the language of instructions were in English, you need to submit an official letter from the institution’s registrar confirming you attended the institution and the language of instruction was English.
• If an English test is needed, you can use one of the English Tests approved by the US State Department listed below:
  • TOEFLl, IELTS, CEFR, ACTFL OPI or ACTFL OPIc or TOEIC
• Letter(s) of reference on official letter head of the corresponding organization
  • One from the Dean or a faculty member at your university if you attend or work at a university
  • One from your immediate supervisor at your work place if you work.
• Include in the application your goals and expectations for your visit, as well as, any scholarly projects that you would like to complete during your stay at UNC.

Once we have received all your documents and a faculty member has agreed to be your mentor, you will receive the following from us:

• A formal invitation letter to the VIS Program and a request to send back the following included documents:
  • Release of Liability Form
  • Personal Information Form
  • Compliance Information
  • Social Media and Confidentially form

Once we have received these documents, we will begin to process your DS-2019 paperwork which you will use to obtain your J-1 visa from the U.S. consulate in your country.  Click here for more information about the J-1 requirements.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at songlobalhealth@unc.edu.

Every year, the School of Nursing welcomes dozens of visitors from around the globe through our Visiting International Scholars (VIS) program.

Whether a graduate student working toward a degree or an experienced professional looking to enhance a particular skill-set, the VIS program offers nursing professionals in all stages of their careers a chance to be mentored by one of UNC’s world-renowned faculty. UNC’s faculty will mentor VIS through an individualized study-plan suited to their professional goals. The relationships developed during this experience benefit both the faculty mentor and visiting scholar as they work towards a new understanding of patient care, research, and education.

Every visiting scholar’s experience and time spent at UNC is unique. Visits vary in length from as short as two weeks to over a year. In addition to working closely with their faculty mentor, VIS can audit up to two courses per semester to enhance their studies. Scholars will have the opportunity to participate in any relevant seminars and workshops held around campus.

Established in 1789, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-CH), is home to a vibrant international community, and scholars always have the support of on-campus organizations and staff to help them adjust to life away from home.

Chapel Hill is located 272 mi (437 km) from Washington DC, and approximately midway between the Atlantic Ocean (169 mi (272km)) and the Appalachian Mountains (168 miles (270km)), thus opportunities for travel are many. Still, there are lots to do in Chapel Hill and the surrounding area with its festivals and unique culture.

Please read on to find out more about our VIS program and begin by filling out our application. Also, make sure to check out our list of faculty members, searchable by specialty, to help you in your search for a suitable mentor.  If you are a university official interested in setting up a visit for a larger group, please contact us at songlobalhealth@unc.edu.

If you have questions please check out Frequently Asked Questions and contact us if you can’t find your answer there:

Email: songlobalhealth@unc.edu

Phone: (919) 843-8590

Please contact songlobalhealth@unc.edu