International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) coordinates the immigration processes for international citizens who come to Middlebury College to teach during the academic year and the summer programs (Bread Loaf School of English and Language Schools). Please note that ISSS cannot begin the immigration paperwork until Middlebury College has formally offered a position, and the offer has been accepted, by returning a signed contract.
Most international faculty come to Middlebury College in J-1 (Exchange Visitor) visa status (this is usually the case for those who have not recently been in the U.S., or for those currently in J status at another institution). If you wish to apply for J-1 visa status, you must first complete the DS-2019 application form. If you are transferrring your SEVIS record from another institution, you should also complete the SEVIS Transfer Form. Once ISSS receives the completed DS-2019 application and supporting documents, a DS-2019 will be sent to you, along with instructions on how to apply for a J-1 visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. It can take several weeks to complete the visa application process, so the DS-2019 application should be submitted as soon as possible.
Individuals currently in F-1 status at other institutions are eligible to apply for work authorization (referred to as "Practical Training") through the institution which produced their I-20. If you are currently in F-1 status, and wish work at Middlebury College, we encourage you to discuss your plans with the international student advisor at your institution. Your international student advisor is the person who will recommend you for Practical Training.
For citizens of Canada or Mexico who are on short-term appointments, it may make sense to enter the U.S. in TN (Treaty NAFTA) status. If this appears to be an option for you, you should discuss it with an ISSS staff member. We will send you the appropriate application form so that our office can proceed with providing you with the necessary documents for your entry to the U.S. in TN status.
In special circumstances, an H-1B visa (for Temporary Employment in a Specialty Occupation) may be the most appropriate visa status. (For instance, if you are currently in H-1B status at another institution, or if you are being hired for a multi-year contract.) If Middlebury College determines that H-1B status is appropriate, ISSS will submit the H-1B petition to USCIS on your behalf.
Please see the "Frequently Asked Questions" to the right, and contact us if you have any questions regarding your immigration status.
International Student and Scholar Services
Carr Hall - 452 College Street
Middlebury College
Middlebury, VT 05753
Phone: 802-443-5858
Fax: 802-443-2063
Email: isss@middlebury.edu
Last updated October 8, 2008.