Application Process
We keep the application process for InterExchange Career Training USA as simple as possible for you. If you have any questions regarding the process, check out the Frequently Asked Questions section on applying or send us an email at training@interexchange.org.
Before beginning the application process, please first ensure you are eligible for a J-1 Visa.
Step 1: Fill out our Info Request Form. Within one business day, you will receive an email from training@interexchange.org with an application and additional information regarding how to apply for J-1 Visa Sponsorship. Please add this email address to your address book to ensure delivery.
Step 2: Complete the application and gather all the required supplemental documents and your employer’s documents. Send your complete application and full payment to InterExchange. A complete application includes the actual application form, all required supplemental materials, the employer application, a DS-7002 Form completed by your employer, and full payment We will not be able to begin reviewing your application until it is complete and full payment has been received. Note that you will receive fee information upon submitting the Info Request Form.
Step 3: Once we receive your complete application and fees, we will verify whether you are eligible for J-1 Visa sponsorship and that your employer and internship meet all of the program requirements. Our review process takes approximately 2 weeks. If your application is incomplete, if we require additional information, or if we must perform a site visit with your host employer, the review process will require additional time.
Step 4: If your application is approved, you will receive a confirmation email with your SEVIS ID number and instructions for paying the fee for SEVIS, the U.S. Government database in which all program participants are entered. You will also receive an acceptance packet via UPS with additional program information, including the DS-2019 Form, which is required in order to apply for a visa.
Step 5: After paying the SEVIS fee, you must apply for a visa at your local U.S. Embassy/Consulate. When you attend your interview, you must take proof of the SEVIS payment, the DS-2019 Form, the DS-7002 Form, and any other materials indicated on your Embassy/Consulate website.
Step 6: After receiving a visa, you can make final arrangements to travel to the USA. If you are denied a visa, contact us immediately to review your situation.
Please note that we are not currently accepting additional resumes for the Internship Placement Program at this time and can only assist applicants who have already arranged an internship or training program in the U.S.
What is an International Cooperator?
International cooperators are independent agencies based in countries outside the USA that work with InterExchange to assist participants. If InterExchange works with an international cooperator in your home country, they will pre-screen you and assist you with completing and submitting your application to us. Although you are not required to apply through a cooperator, they can offer you additional assistance in your native language throughout the application process.
What is SEVIS?
The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is a U.S. Government database that maintains address information for all international students and exchange visitors. The government requires that you pay a $180 fee before receiving a visa. Once your J-1 Visa application is approved by InterExchange, you will be sent instructions for paying the SEVIS fee to the Department of Homeland Security. You must do this before your appointment at the Embassy or Consulate. After you pay your fee, remember to print your SEVIS receipt and bring this to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate as proof of payment.
