International Experiences
There are many different types of international opportunities a PhD research fellow can experience. Types of international opportunities include teaching, training, studying (specific courses) and research. However, the international opportunity must be academically relevant. For example, if it is a research experience, the PhD research fellow must remain within the project network with which the research group had established the collaboration. Studies abroad can provide an opportunity to build an international network as well as acquire language skills, cultural competence and new experiences.
How to establish initial contact
Review helpful networking and letter format suggestions from a presentation given by Leanne Torgersen, a guest speaker at the PhD Forum Zoom Lunch Meeting on 14 Jan, 2022.
Helpful US Visa links (if considering an international experience in the US)
There are two common types of Visas used to enter the United States, the F-1 and J-1 Visas.
- If you wish to only take courses at a university in the US, then the F-1 Visa is most applicable.
- If you wish to have a research experience, the J-1 Visa is the preferred type of Visa to use.
- If you wish to bring your family, such as a spouse and/or children, and you are applying for the J-1 Visa, then the J-2 Visa application is required for your family members.
- However, the J-1 sponsor (institution in the US) must approve your request to bring dependents (your family members) since they are responsible for creating and issuing separate DS-2019 forms for each family member.
Links to Forms Required with the J-1 Visa application
- DS-2019
- Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS)
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Learn more about SEVIS (studyinthestates.dhs.gov)
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- Nonimmigrant Visa Application (DS-160)
- J-1 Visa health insurance- mandatory requirement for entering US
- J-2 Visa application overview
- If you will be either a J-1 Intern or a J-1 Trainee, then the DS-7002 form will be a requirement as well. However, this requirement is only pertinent to those who apply under these two specific category types of the J-1 Visa. You would need to discuss this with your US sponsoring institution as to whether this requirement would be applicable to your stay or not.
Other helpful resources for US international travel
Euraxess- Guide to a Research Stay in the US
Check list when leaving Norway
International Study Experience
International Office provides resources and support for those interested in taking a course/courses at another international institution. Any questions you may have about taking courses internationally can be sent to international@hiof.no.
- Learn about the general process for setting up for an international study experience
- Learn about funding support options for international experiences
The Research Council of Norway also grants scholarships for this purpose, and their website provides more information about the options for studying abroad.