The University of the West Indies (UWI) offers students enrolled in research-based programs at international universities the chance to conduct part of their research under the supervision of UWI faculty under the Visiting International Research Student (VIRS) Programme. As an International Research Student at The UWI Mona, you will collaborate with our esteemed faculty on groundbreaking projects across various disciplines, including natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities. Our research programs provide a nurturing environment where your ideas can flourish, enabling you to advance knowledge and make a meaningful impact. At UWI, you will benefit from the extensive resources of the Caribbean’s premier research institution while enjoying the vibrant culture and environment of Jamaica, enriching both your academic experience and that of our students and faculty.
Admission and General Information
Enrollment Requirements
- Students must be enrolled in an accredited degree programme at their home institution and must remain students of their home institution for the duration of their visit to The UWI.
- Students must have written approval from home institution to participate in the VIRS programme.
- Students must obtain written approval from the receiving faculty/department at The UWI Mona before commencing.
- Please Note: While a formal exchange agreement is not required for the VIRS programme, students must have the full support of their research supervisor.
Letter of Request
- A formal letter must be sent from the sending university, on the appropriate letterhead, to the Head of the academic department, requesting permission for the visiting student to pursue their research under the guidance/supervision of the Head or a designated faculty member. The letter may be written by the visiting student’s Academic Advisor/Supervisor, Registrar, or Director of International/Study Abroad Office at their home university.
- Note: A copy of this letter should be sent to the International Students Office and the Registrar of the UWI campus.
Research Proposal
- A clear outline of the research proposal, specifically detailing the part to be conducted at the campus, should be sent to the Head of Department.
Fees
- Based on the duration of time the visiting student will spend on campus and the involvement of UWI faculty members (e.g., helping with placements in agencies/organizations, setting up interviews, and facilitating research), a fee is payable to the Department through the International Students Office.
Confirmation Letter
- Students must receive a letter from the department head at UWI confirming their willingness to host and supervise their research over the agreed period.
Health and Insurance
- Students must have their own medical insurance but may access basic health care at the UWI Health Centre at a cost to be paid by the student.
Costs and Fees
- Tuition: Students are not charged tuition for the Visiting International Research Student Programme.
- Identification Card: Students will be required to get a temporary UWI identification card at a cost of approximately US$30.
- Other Costs: Students are expected to bear the cost of all course materials, excursions, protective gear, meals, accommodation, travel expenses, health care, books, and incidentals.
Pre-Arrival
- Visa and Travel Requirements: Students must verify visa and travel requirements at the nearest Jamaican overseas mission. Information on Jamaican missions overseas can be found here. The airport closest to our campus is the Norman Manley International Airport.
- On-Campus Accommodation: Students may apply for on-campus accommodation via 138 Student Living by emailing info@138studentliving.com.
- Overseas Mission Registration: Students are encouraged to register with the overseas mission for their home country upon arrival in Jamaica.
Post-Arrival
- Reporting: Upon arrival, the researcher should report by the next working day to the Senior Administrative Assistant, International Students Office, or their nominee.
- Orientation: The International Students Office will provide guidelines concerning settling of outstanding fees, orientation information including the use of the library and other facilities, obtaining the visiting student’s identification, and clarification of responsibilities and procedures.
Contact:
The Senior Assistant Registrar
International Students Office
The University of the West Indies
Mona, Kingston 7, Jamaica
Email: isomona@uwimona.edu.jm
