Visiting Scholars and Visiting Researchers Program

Every year, Carolina Law welcomes a limited number of visitors from around the world. The program is designed to give foreign academics and legal professionals an opportunity to pursue their research interest and consult with Carolina Law faculty.

Visitors receive no compensation, and they are not eligible for employee benefits or financial aid. Visitors are granted full access to the Kathrine R. Everett Law Library and can audit classes with the permission of the instructor. Office space is not provided, though usually library carrel and locker space can be arranged. Visitors are eligible for a UNC One Card, which allows them to use most facilities at the University.

Visiting Scholars and Researchers should review the Carolina Law Web site for information about course offerings, special events and faculty.

Visiting scholars and researchers must make their own travel and housing arrangements. The School of Law will assist visitors in obtaining the proper travel visas for themselves and any dependents.

How to Apply

Those interested in visiting should apply at least five months before they intend to visit due to the length of time it can sometimes take for visa paperwork to be processed.

To apply, please submit:

  • A statement of objectives and outline of a research plan, not to exceed 500 words.
  • A current curriculum vitae or resume, including publication record.
  • The dates of the intended visit.
  • Two letters of recommendation from those qualified to speak to scholarly and academic achievements.
  • The sources and amounts of funding (upon acceptance as a research scholar, for the final stage of the visa process, this documentation has to be the original, signed document).
  • For applicants whose native language is not English, TOEFL scores of at least 560 on the paper test and 220 on the computer test are required.
  • A list of any and all family members who may accompany the visiting scholar and a photocopy of each traveler's passport photo page.
  • Upon acceptance as a research scholar, a DS-2019 Part II form will be sent for the research scholar to complete and return the original, signed document to UNC via mail.

For More Information, please contact:

Beverly Sizemore, Director of International Programs
UNC School of Law
CB#3380
5135 Van Hecke-Wettach Hall
Chapel Hill, NC 27599-3380
Tel: (919) 843-6247
Fax: (919) 962-1277
Email: bevsize@email.unc.edu