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Visiting Scholars

Visiting Scholars are important part of research for UC Merced. Visitors for other universities, both nationally and internationally, provide an opportunity for academic exchange and collaboration between our faculty and students.

A visiting scholar is a person on leave from an academic appointment, other employment, or student enrollment at a home institution or other entity. They may be appointed as a visitor to the University of California to participate in a short-term educational, research, or other academic project under the supervision of an academic appointee. A visitor shall be designated, as appropriate, as a Visiting Scholar, Visitor (Graduate Student), or Visitor (Undergraduate).

Please see your school or ORU's Academic Personnel staff member for additional assistance. More information is posted online.

Criteria for Appointment

A Visiting Scholar must possess a terminal degree appropriate for this status. A Visitor (Graduate Student) and Visitor (Undergraduate) must be enrolled in a degree granting program or equivalent at an institution of higher education other than the University of California.
The appointment must serve an academic purpose for the unit in which they are visiting.

Visitors are appointed for short periods not to exceed one year (12 months), and more typically, for six (6) months or less. The appointment is self-terminating. Reappointment is permitted. The University of California may terminate the appointment without prior notice and withdraw associated privileges.

Required documents include:

  • Invitation letter
  • Proof of university affiliation
  • CV
  • Verification of self-support (Visa)

Additional title specific documentation requirements:

  • Visiting Scholar:  Proof of current university or industry affiliation (the policy states they are on leave from an academic appointment, other employment, or student enrollment at a home institution or other entity.)
  • Visitoring Graduate and Undergraduate:  Proof of enrollment in a degree granting program (other than the University of California)

We are no longer requiring the following forms:

  • Proof of Diploma
  • Memo/documentation that the home university approves the visit
  • 611
  • 620

Additional information can be found here.

Please see your school or ORU's Academic Personnel staff member for additional assistance.