Understanding and Appointing Visiting Scholars
Visiting Scholars have a doctoral degree or recognized expertise in their field and wish to visit Stanford from an outside institution or organization. Visiting Scholar appointments are usually made for one year and may be renewed for a second year. They are not employees of the University and may not receive regular compensation, but must provide proof of funds in an amount equivalent to or greater than the current first-year postdoctoral stipend ($40,785 until September 30, 2009; $41,804 on October 1, 2009).
Quick - What's My Visitor's Line? (chart) - Quick reference to identify the appropriate teaching title for an academic visitor.
What's My Visitor's Line? (document) - More details on differences between Visiting Scholars, Visiting Faculty and Consulting Faculty, with updates on Visiting Instructors and an FAQ.
Appointing and Reappointing Visiting Scholars
- Handbook - Description of Visiting Scholar rank and policies, how to appoint them, documentation required.
- Checklist
- List of required materials for a full Visiting Scholar application package. - Appointment Form - Application for Visiting Scholar (appointment or reappointment).
- Sample Invitation Letter - Required for appointment - letter inviting the Visiting Scholar and providing certain information about Stanford.
- Application for J-1 Visa (DS-2019) - If the candidate requires a J-1 visa, read the whole page before clicking "Medical School Visiting Scholars and Visiting Faculty" at the bottom. J-1 visa holders may have only minimal patient contact.
- Sponsor for SUNet ID - Departments may sponsor Visiting Scholars for a SUNet ID; there is a free level of service which will allow them to obtain a courtesy card and other privileges. This link takes you to the sponsorship page.
Appointment requests for individuals who require J-1 visas must be submitted a minimum of two months before the start date requested (March 1 for May 1, e.g.).
