International Scholars

How to Become a Scholar at PSU

Scholars interested in coming to PSU must first secure a sponsoring academic department, institute or program at the university. This requires establishing a relationship with a PSU faculty member or department and developing a collaborative exchange program or activity. The Office of International Student & Scholar Services (OISSS) does not match prospective scholars to faculty or departments. Prospective scholars will need to do their own research and contact departments directly. (See Tips for Finding a Scholar Sponsor below) After an agreement has been made, the sponsoring department will contact OISSS to determine the visa category and start the scholar application process.

Scholars interested in direct employment at PSU must apply through PSU Human Resources Employment Opportunities (H-1B, TN, other).

 

TIPS FOR FINDING A SPONSOR

Research and Planning

  1. Start thinking about potential sponsors now. It may take some time to find a sponsoring professor, complete the application paperwork, and for visa processing and security checks. OISSS recommends that scholars start looking for a sponsor 3 to 6 months before their expected program start date.
  2. Make a list of potential sponsors. Start looking at PSU Schools & Colleges and Research Centers & Institutes that are related to your research focus, major, or specialization. Most department websites will have information on current research projects, position openings, and listing of current scholars or faculty.
  3. Reach out to current scholars. Does your department of interest already have international scholars? Reach out to them to learn about their experiences, feedback, and advice.
  4. Network. Do you have, or does your current institution have any personal connections or programs with PSU? Do you have a personal contact at PSU who can help pass your request and application on to the potential sponsor? Some foreign institutions or universities already have partnership programs or agreements set up. Research if any organizations you belong to have any ties or agreements (university, professional organization, employment).
  5. Create a list of potential sponsors and do your research. You should focus your list to include people who will actually consider your sponsorship request. Gather background information on the potential sponsor and develop a statement of how you can benefit each other.
  6. Review the Interview Checklist from the International Post-doc Survival Guide: Going in with Your Eyes Open and prepare what questions you want to ask (National Postdoctoral Association).

Drafting an Email to a Potential Sponsoring Professor/Department

  1. Address each email to a specific person. Personalize each email with the name and information of the potential sponsor. Departments may delete the email if they see it is a bulk email (one email set to all prospective sponsors). A personal email is more effective.
  2. Introduction and Summary. Introduce yourself and summarize the main points of your request. Describe your background and accomplishments, why you are seeking sponsorship, how being a sponsor will benefit them, your funding situation, the dates of your requested program, and what you are requesting (sponsorship for the U.S. visa). Include the dates of any deadlines. Keep the introduction email short, but attach a link to your website, social media, or research publications so the potential sponsor can easily access your information.
  3. Outline your basic learning plan or research goals. State what you plan to do at PSU, how your research aligns with theirs, and if you are flexible to changing your learning plan. You may want to include information if you would like to enroll in English courses, attend conferences, or require an office space. Be flexible as departments may be limited on funding, space, and projects. 
  4. Funding. State if you already have funding or if you are requesting financial sponsorship as well. Proof of financial support may be required for the final application.
  5. Attach your Resume or Curriculum Vitae. These documents will be required as part of the application and give your sponsor a better understanding of your background and experience.
  6. Past or current stays in the United States. If you are currently in the U.S. or have been in the U.S. in the past to do academic work (student, visiting scholar or employee) include information about your activities and the type of U.S. visa you had. If you secure a sponsor, be prepared to send copies of your immigration documents (passport, U.S. visa stamp, DS-2019 or I-20, I-94, or Employment Authorization Document) to clarify your immigration status, employment eligibility, and visa type.
  7. Keep your request clear. Questions relating to visa type, bringing dependents (spouse or child), orientation information, or other general questions can be addressed later or during the application phase unless essential in your request.
  8. Direct sponsors to contact the Office of International Student & Scholar Services (OISSS). Please include this as one of your final statements: "If you are interested in hosting me as a visiting scholar, I was informed that the next step is for the sponsoring department to contact the Office of International Student & Scholar Services (OISSS) at Portland State University to determine the visa type and to obtain the application materials. You may contact them a jscholar@pdx.edu.
  9. Thank your sponsor for taking the time to read through your email and consider your request.
  10. Read and re-read your email before sending! Make sure all documents are attached, readable in English, and that your request is understandable. 
  11. Send your request! Have confidence in your request and if you don't succeed the first time, then just try again. If you receive a denial, ask if the sponsor has any suggestions or other departments or contacts at the university.

Obtaining Sponsorship

  1. Thank your sponsor. If you secured a sponsor at PSU, then congratulations! Make sure you thank your sponsor for taking the time to review your application and sponsor you since it is an additional time commitment for them.
  2. Continue to do your research so you are prepared for your visa interview and your arrival at PSU.
  3. Follow-up. The sponsoring department and OISSS will be in contact with you about any follow-up questions, the application paperwork, and procedures.

Many thanks to International Scholar & Faculty Services at Oregon State University
for these Tips!