The Visiting Scholars/Researchers Program provides an opportunity for foreign academics or communication professionals to pursue their independent research interest and consult with MU Communication faculty.

Visiting scholars receive no compensation and they are not eligible for employee benefits or financial aid. Visiting scholars have access to the Mizzou Library including electronic databases such as Web of Science and Communication and Mass Media Complete, and a securable study space. Visitors may audit classes with the instructors’ permission. The Department of Communication provides visitors a “courtesy appointment” that allows them to obtain an identification card to use most facilities at the university.

In addition, visiting scholars receive planning coordination help for events such as lectures and meetings. Visiting scholars and researchers must make their own travel and housing arrangements. However, the University of Missouri International Center facilitates preparation of the proper travel visa and other official arrangements for the research period.

Visiting Scholars/Researchers should review the Department of Communication website to explore ways in which they may take full advantage of their time at MU. Information about course offerings, special events, conferences, speaker series, and faculty are on the website.

Application Information

Visiting research scholars should allow sufficient time to apply before they intend to visit. This allows ample time for visa paperwork processing.

To apply, please submit:

• Statement of purpose outlining a research plan
• Current curriculum vita or resume, including publication record
• Specific dates of the intended visit (mm/dd/yyyy to mm/dd/yyyy)
• For applicants whose native language is not English, TOEFL score of at least 80 on the internet-based test

Once approved, we will need the following to complete the J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa Request:

• Proof of adequate funding: A minimum of $1,200 per month for the program duration, plus $700 per month for a spouse and $400 per month for each additional dependent. Documentation can be letters of support or personal bank statements.
• Copy of the visiting scholar’s passport biographical page (also required for dependents accompanying the scholar).
• Documentation of medical insurance coverage: All J-1 visitors are required to have and maintain medical insurance (http://international.missouri.edu/j1-insurance), which includes coverage for repatriation and medical evacuation, for themselves and any dependents accompanying them. This can be through a home country government-provided insurance or through a policy available for purchase through the MU International Center.

Accommodations for Visiting Research Scholars

Visiting scholars need to arrange for their own housing accommodations while at Mizzou Law. The International Center website, https://international.missouri.edu/come-to-mu/living-in-columbia/index.php, provides links to helpful information to assist with finding housing. On occasion on-campus housing might be available to visitors without dependents.

Fee for Visiting Research Scholars

The fee for visiting scholars is $2,000 per semester ($4,000 for the academic year). The fee is payable upon arrival, not before. For many visiting scholars, their home institution or government pays the fee on their behalf. Please note this fee is separate from the funding amount required for the visa application request.

In cases where the length of stay on the application will be significantly less that a semester or academic year, the fee can be pro-rated. There is no additional charge for the summer months following the spring semester or if the visiting scholar arrives during the summer preceding the academic fall semester.