Programs

Visiting Scholar Program

CKS is not accepting Visiting Scholar applications at this time. Applications will reopen circa November 2024.

The Center for Korea Studies accepts twelve to fifteen scholars annually to conduct research at the University of Washington. These visitors include academics, government officials, journalists, scholars, and a variety of other institutional researchers. Scholars are encouraged to use the extensive collections of the University of Washington library system and other university research facilities, and to meet and work with the faculty of the Jackson School for International Studies and the University in general. The Visiting Scholar Program provides an excellent opportunity to join in the academic life of the University of Washington community as well as to experience life in the diverse communities of Seattle and the Pacific Northwest.

Visiting Scholars are those who have been granted leave and financial support to pursue research while they continue full-time employment at their home institution. Such scholars may visit the University of Washington for a period of one year for the purpose of research and interaction with students and scholars on campus. We will consider one extension only. The Center for Korea Studies has no office space to offer, but we provide for access to University of Washington research and recreational facilities, assistance for adjusting to the local environment, and the support of the Associate Director in identifying fruitful sites for academic cooperation with faculty and students. Visiting Scholars are strongly encouraged to both attend and present their research at Center for Korea Studies colloquia offered throughout the academic year. Additionally, the Center for Korea Studies hosts various social events and activities for Visiting Scholars and their families.

Resources for Prospective and Current Visiting Scholars

Application Process

The Center for Korea Studies can sponsor only a limited number of visas. In recent years demand has exceeded our capacity and we have had to limit the number we accept. Scholars who wish to apply for visiting status must apply at least 3 months before their intended start dates. Applications with start dates within 3 months of applying will not be processed as evaluations take several weeks. They should also provide us with (1) a CV, (2) an affidavit of financial support from their institution, (3) a plan of study/research proposal, (4) a copy of the biographic page of the scholar’s passport (and copies of the biographic pages of the scholar’s dependents), (5) a proof of English Language proficiency (detailed below), and (6) a nonrefundable application fee of $200. Please note: Applications will not be reviewed until all required materials and the application fee have been received.

Materials should be sent to:

Center for Korea Studies
Jackson School of International Studies
Box 353650
University of Washington
Seattle, WA 98195

or emailed to uwcks@uw.edu

Fees

CKS Storefront

All Visiting Scholars-related fees are now payable via CKS’ online store linked here. Please contact us directly with any questions prior to making payments.

Application fee ($200, non-refundable): No application will be considered if this fee is not paid.

DS-2019 processing fee: $562 per person. Extensions: A $562 processing fee per person is required for extensions. Visiting Scholar fee payment required when applying for DS-2019. (fees updated by ISO Sept. 2, 2023)

Visiting Scholars from Academic institutions: The Center for Korea Studies will assess a fee of $3,000 per year to Visiting Scholars who possess a Ph.D. and hold a teaching or research position at an academic institution (university, graduate school) before the visa can be processed. Extensions: A $2,000 visiting scholar fee is required for extensions limited to one year.

Visiting Scholars from Non-academic institutions: The Center for Korea Studies will assess a fee of $8,000 per year to Visiting Scholars from non-academic institutions, journalists, government officials, and researchers at government and private institutions before the visa can be processed. Extensions: A $4,000 visiting scholar fee is required for extensions limited to one year.

English Proficiency requirement: Effective Jan. 5, 2015, visa regulations require that J-1 exchange scholars provide one of the following measurements of English language proficiency: (1) A recognized English language test; (2) Signed documentation from an academic institution or English language school attended by the applicant for language training purposes; or (3) A documented interview conducted by the sponsor either in-person or by videoconferencing, or by telephone if videoconferencing is not a viable option.

 

For additional inquiries about the program, please contact the Center for Korea Studies at uwcks@uw.edu.