To obtain your J-1 Visa, you must engage in a full application and review process with NISE. NISE will assess your application, supporting documents, and intended host school for eligibility and compliance with the Exchange Visitor Program. If your application is approved, NISE will issue your DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility and provide further instruction on how you will then apply for a J-1 Visa appointment at your home country’s US embassy or consulate. Issuance of the J-1 Visa, like all non-immigrant visas, is at the discretion of Consular Officers viewing visa applications at US embassies and consulates. This means that even if you are accepted to an Exchange Visitor Program and have received your DS-2019, the Consular Officers decide if you receive the J-1 Visa.