FAQ

Employees vs Consultants (Independent Contractors): The University classifies and pays individuals who provide services as Employees unless the nature of the services and other circumstances satisfy the criteria for Independent Contractor status. Columbia University hires Consultants and Service Providers to accomplish the objectives of the University when such Services are specialized, highly technical, and commercially available and cannot be economically or satisfactorily performed by University employees as part of their normal duties.

Please complete the Hire Request Form for PI's, or send us an email to iserp-hiring@columbia.edu.

You will need to work with the International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) and your home department if your visa needs to get extended. Please remember that you are not allowed to work on an expired visa!

Please refer to the hire checklists for Department Research Assistants or Casual Employees.