Visiting Scholars

The Visiting Scholar Procedures at Southern Methodist University establish a structured framework for the appointment, approval, onboarding, oversight, and departure of visiting scholars to ensure compliance with institutional policies, legal requirements, and federal regulations. These procedures are designed to support academic collaboration by clearly outlining the roles and responsibilities of hosting departments, faculty sponsors, and visiting scholars, while safeguarding the University’s operational, research, and regulatory obligations. They ensure that all visiting scholars are properly vetted, approved, and supported throughout their appointment, and that their activities align with SMU’s academic mission, risk management standards, and compliance requirements. 

New Visiting Scholar Request

The Visiting Scholar Agreement establishes the terms and conditions under which an individual may engage in temporary scholarly or research activities at Southern Methodist University (SMU), while clearly defining the expectations, responsibilities, and legal relationship between the University and the visiting scholar. Its purpose is to ensure that visiting scholars can access SMU’s facilities, resources, and academic environment in a structured and compliant manner, while outlining requirements related to conduct, intellectual property, insurance, and regulatory obligations. The agreement also clarifies that visiting scholars are not employees of the University and are responsible for their own financial support and compliance with applicable policies and laws during their affiliation with SMU. 

Visiting Scholar Agreement

Steps to Sponsor a Visiting Scholar

1
The sponsoring faculty member completes the form with details about the invitation and prospective visiting scholar.
2
The International Office initiates request for SMU ID creation and criminal background check:
  • The Visiting Scholar will be asked to provide biographical information.
  • If the scholar is a foreign national who requires visa sponsorship, they will complete the Visa Questionnaire.
3
The Office of Faculty Success begins creating the contingent invitation/appointment letter.
4
The Visiting Scholar signs the Visiting Scholar Agreement.
  • The International Office will email the faculty advisor to begin the DS-2019 request or confirm sponsorship visa sponsorship type.
5
The SMU ID is created, and the criminal background check is processed.
6
Offices across campus review the request.
7
Once all offices have approved the request, the invitation letter is finalized.