INTERNSHIP IN USA
The United States is an incredibly diverse nation. People from all over the world immigrate here, there are different religions, races, cultural traditions, and political beliefs that make up the country. To witness such a multicultural way of living is truly extraordinary. According to the U.S. government, there are more than 35,000 museums in the United States. From science centers to historical monuments, art galleries to war memorials, you’ll find a museum to explore no matter where you are in the country. Some showcase the rich, long history of the United States, while others focus on modern inventions and the future of the nation.
Much like the people in America, the food is quite diverse. There are classic American dishes such as fried chicken, macaroni and cheese and tuna casserole, but there is also an abundance of places to find foods inspired by other countries.
Being able to relate to people in other countries is a great way to become more compassionate and understanding of different cultures. You might realize that you enjoy doing things the American way or that you don’t want to change the way you live.
If you’re all about the nightlife, America’s big cities usually don’t sleep and will keep you entertained. If you prefer a more laid-back experience, smaller towns generally offer low-key things to do. The great thing about the USA is that you can find your groove somewhere, whether it’s the bustling streets of New York City or the calm, slow-paced pastures of the Southern states
INTERNSHIP
Overview
Internship USA is a unique program for full-time students and recent graduates which allows you to have practical training in your field of studies in a US establishment for up to 12 months. You can apply and go at any time of year.
It is a chance to put your studies into practice, enhance your skills and learn about American business culture from the inside.
Whatever your field of study, Internship USA will add new weight to your CV. There is a huge range of jobs you can undertake while in the US.
You also ‘earn while you learn’ and you can use the money to be a tourist at the end of the program. Your visa allows you 30 days to travel anywhere in the United States at the end of your placement.
Internship USA is open to full time students over 18 years of age who are currently enrolled at university or graduated not more than 12 months,
Students must commence their program within 12 months of completing their studies
- You can train anywhere in the USA for up to 12 months in a field that is directly related to your studies
- Placements should consist of practical training directly related to your field of study.
- You are prohibited from taking a casual or second job and from working in a number of areas
- You can participate either during your studies or within the 12 months following the completion of your studies
- Your internship can be paid or unpaid (participants must show proof of having at least USD$750 per month to support themselves)
- You must have got an host company prior to visa documentation being issued
- Once you have been offered a placement, we will provide an Internship Agreement Pack and visa assistance
- You can remain as a tourist in the US for up to 30 days after the completion of your J-1 visa
- You can start your placement at any time of the year. You will be sponsored for a J-1 Visa for the duration of your internship as certified by your host company. The maximum length of sponsorship is 12 months.
PROGRAM BENEFITS
The US is the most diverse and dynamic economy on earth. The opportunity to live and train there for up to 12 months on a sponsored and structured training program will bring a wide range of benefits that will last long after you return home.
“The benefits of the internship are innumerable and always differ depending on your own experience. However, three major advantages can be highlighted: friendship, professional growth and self-understanding. Living and working with new people from different cultures generates bonds that only get tighter as the year progresses. – Kathy Larida- Philippines
- You will be issued with a visa allowing you to live and train in the US for the duration of your program
- You will be part of a structured training program that will expose you to many aspects of the business
- You will get first hand experience in your field of study or chosen career in the world’s leading economy
- You will make invaluable business contacts that you can call on later in your career
- You will expand your horizons and open career doors you didn’t know existed
- You will gain important insights into American business culture that will enhance your future career prospects
- You will challenge yourself and gain independence and maturity
- You will enhance your resumé and give yourself a competitive edge in the jobs marketplace
- You will earn US$ which you can use to travel around the country at the end of your program
Living and training in the USA could provide you with a career boost that sets you on the path to success.
ELIGIBILITY
You are 18 years to 35 years old and;
- You are a full-time student at a university (post-secondary school) outside the U.S. OR graduated from an international university (post-secondary school) within the past 12 months
- Your requested work placement is related to your studies/diploma
- Must have completed the first 12 months of studies in College/University
- Must commence your training or have graduated from such an institution no more than 12 months prior to your prospective program start date
- Have fluent spoken and written English skills
Applicants outside Home Country
Applicants must apply for their chosen Internship Program while in their home country or their country of current study or work.
Applicants for visas should generally apply at the American Embassy or Consulate with jurisdiction over their place of permanent residence. Although visa applicants may apply at any US consular office abroad, it may be more difficult to qualify for the visa outside the country of permanent residence.
The Individual US Embassy/Consulate in a given country may have a strict policy when interviewing an applicant who is applying for a visa from outside his home country. Certain Embassies/Consulates will not accept applications from “third country nationals”. In this case, the applicant may register for an Internship Program in his current country of residence but must apply for the visa in his country of citizenship.
It is the responsibility of all International students to be aware of any regulations or restrictions specific to their nationality when applying for a J-1 Internship visa outside their home country.
Program Cost
2020-21 Program Fees
Program Length (months) Internship USA (USD)
0-6 $4,310
6-12 $4,900
Notes
- Program fees are correct for departures up to and including 31st August 2021.
- Your program fee includes a non-refundable portion of $350.
- $500 placement assistance fee will be charged in addition to the above, if applicable.
- A US $300 *site visit fee will be charged in addition to the above, if applicable.
*Site Visit
Site visits will be mandatory for any host companies that have not previously hosted with Visa Sponsor unless they have either a minimum of 25 full-time employees or generate a minimum of $3 million in annual turnover.
For applications that require a site visit an additional application fee of US $300 will be added to the program fee to cover the site visit by Visa Sponsor.
If your host company requires a site visit please allow an additional 4 weeks processing time for your application.
DS-2019 Re Issue
Applicants are required to enter the US within 20 days of the arrival date listed on their application. If you will be entering more than 20 days after your scheduled arrival date you will have to get your DS-2019 form reprinted with your amended dates so Visa sponsor can update your SEVIS record.
All DS-2019 re issues will incur a $150 administration fee.
What’s included?
- The legal sponsorship necessary to obtain your J-1 visa
- Assistance with obtaining your visa (you must pay the visa related costs)
- Internship USA or Trainee USA Handbook providing tips on working and travelling around the USA
- Advice on jobs, housing and transport
- Comprehensive Medical and Health insurance cover for the duration of your stay
- 24-hour, 7 days a week help line whilst in the USA
What’s not included?
- Round trip transportation to the US
- Passport fee
- SEVIS Fee (currently US$220)*
- All items of a personal nature including expenses for entertainment, meals, transportation to and from your employment, housing
- Insurance for trip cancellation or trip interruption.
Payment Schedule
- $350 non-refundable deposit is required when you submit your application
- We will conduct a preliminary review of your application and invoice you for your program fee and SEVIS fee
- On receipt of full payment your application will be submitted to the Visa Sponsor for review and final approval.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations will only be accepted in writing and will be effective at the date received by TransCareers International. Refunds will be made according to the following schedule:
- If your application does not meet our eligibility criteria you will be refunded in full.
- If you withdraw from the program:
– Prior to being issued with your DS-2019 form you will be refunded in full less $350 + placement fee if applicable
– After being issued with your DS-2019 form you will be refunded 50% of program fees + placement fee if applicable - If you fail to enter the USA by your scheduled departure date there will be no refund.
Application Process
The entire process can take up to 3 – 6 months so give yourself plenty of lead time:
Step 1: APPLY
Once you have decided to enroll in our rewarding internship or trainee USA programs please contact us by signing up
Submit an online individual application request. A TransCareers International staff member will review your request and send you instructions on how to complete your application online within 2 business days. Be prepared to submit official documentation which substantiates your education and employment qualifications.
Step 2: APPLICATION EVALUATION
We will evaluate your complete application and issues a sponsorship decision within approximately 4 weeks. During this step, a TransCareers International staff member may reach out with additional questions, to schedule a phone or Skype interview. We will begin to search suitable Host Company that matches your educational qualifications.
Step 3: APPROVAL + DS-7002
Host Company will conduct interview and after acceptance by both parties, we will send the applicant and the supervisor an official training plan (DS-7002) for review and signing.
Step 4: VISA DOCUMENTS ISSUED
Visa Sponsor conducts interview for both supervisor and applicant after receiving the signed training plan and DS-2019 is issued within 6 weeks by visa sponsor. Then mailed to the participant along with other important arrival documents. At this time, applicants are also e-mailed instructions on how to apply for the J-1 Visa in their home country.
Step 5: U.S. CONSULATE/EMBASSY APPOINTMENT
After making an appointment online, applicants attend an appointment at the U.S. Consulate or Embassy with the original DS-2019/7002. Visa approval and issuance is at the discretion of the consular official. Visa appointment and processing wait times vary by country and time of year. On average, this process takes 2-4 weeks. Up-to-date information can be found on the U.S. Department of State website
Step 6: FLY TO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Book your flights and prepare for a career lift off!
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I need to apply?
Your full application, certified by your employer, must be submitted to TransCareers International a minimum of 8 weeks before your departure date.
How do I apply for the program?
You can download an application form from our website, e-mail us, or give us a call - (cost of a local call) 1917 300 4730 and we will send you one. Please see How to Apply section.
What does TransCareers International need to know from my US employer?
Your employer will be required to complete an Internship Agreement and provide information on the nature of your position, salary and dates of employment and training components. They will also need to submit a comprehensive training plan - this is the most important part of the application.
Can I extend my J-1 visa?
You can extend your J-1 visa for a maximum of 18 months. If your placement is for a shorter period than this (e.g. for 6 months), you can apply for an extension up to the total time of:
- Internship: 12 months.
- Trainee: 18 months.
It is a requirement that you remain with the same employer and you must lodge the extension application before your original visa has expired. Extension forms will be supplied to you prior to your departure. Additional fees will apply.
Do I need to find a job before I leave?
Yes. You will need to pre-arrange your training placement before you apply and arrive in the US.
Can I travel around the US after my internship authorization has expired?
Once your DS-2019 has expired you have 30 days from the expiration date to travel within the US.
Do I need medical insurance?
Your program fee includes health and medical insurance. Under US Government program regulations, you must have an approved level of insurance coverage. Our custom insurance plans meet this requirement. Our insurance covers you for emergency and accidents including hospital cover - but only while you are on the program.
Why do I have to pay to go on this program?
Your program fee cover our services to you before you leave and Visa Sponsor services and support whilst in the US including sponsorship of your visa. The fee also covers your insurance. View a full list of what’s included in the program fee for Internship USA or Trainee USA.
Can I repeat the program?
- INT to INT: 90 days minimum, from old DS end date to new DS start date;
- INT to Trainee: 2 years minimum.
- Trainee to INT: 2 years minimum.
- Trainee to Trainee: 2 years minimum.
What industries are acceptable for the program?
According to the regulations of the Internship and Trainee USA program, the US Department of State may designate training and internship programs in any of the following occupational categories:
(i) Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing;
(ii) Arts and Culture;
(iii) Construction and Building Trades;
(iv) Education, Social Sciences, Library Science, Counseling and Social Services;
(v) Health Related Occupations;
(vi) Hospitality and Tourism;
(vii) Information Media and Communications;
(viii) Management, Business, Commerce and Finance;
(ix) Public Administration and Law; and
(x) The Sciences, Engineering, Architecture, Mathematics, and Industrial Occupations.
Are there any prohibited industries on the program?
Any job, whether or not it is included in the list below, must be generally compatible with the rules, regulations, and intent of the program.