Camp USA Programs
Camp USA Programs
InterExchange Camp USA helps participants connect with a U.S camp where they will be working alongside Americans as “camp counselors”. Camp USA applicants apply to one of three program categories: Camp Placement, Self Placement, or Returning Placement. While many of the details covered in this handbook are specific to Camp Placement participants, Self Placement and Returning Placement participants will also find many of the issues covered to be useful.
Our Role
As a J-1 Visa sponsor, InterExchange serves as the central contact point for U.S. camps, international participants and ICs. We take great pride in running our program with a personal approach, which is why we will stay in contact with you throughout the entire program. When you choose to participate in our program, you can expect:
- Personalized service from dedicated InterExchange Camp USA program professionals.
- Thoroughly screened host camps, evaluated by InterExchange
- DS-2019 Forms and visa application support
- 24-hour program support throughout the summer
Participant Requirements
InterExchange Camp USA recruits applicants who are:
- Between the ages of 18 and 28 during the summer of participation.
- Students, teachers, youth workers or individuals with specialized skills.
- Fluent in English and able to attend an orientation and interview in their home country.
- Experienced and/or enthusiastic about working with children in a camp environment.
- Highly motivated and committed to the program for 8 to 15 weeks.
Camp Placement Participants
Camp Placement participants are those who would like help finding an offer from a U.S summer camp. Camp Placement participants receive:
Access to our “matching system”
Camp Placement participants will gain access to our matching system. This allows them to view profiles for summer camps that are actively looking to host international staff. The camp directors are also able to view available applications and will contact applicants for an interview. Our matching system makes it easy to find an offer from a U.S summer camp.
J-1 Visa Documentation and Sponsorship
Once you have received and accepted an offer, InterExchange will provide you with a DS-2019 Form and your SEVIS receipt. These two documents allow you to apply for the J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa at a U.S embassy or consulate. The J-1 Visa allows you to enter the United States to work at your camp during the dates listed on your form. The J-1 visa also permits travel within the United States for an additional 30 days after the end date on your DS-2019 Form.
Insurance
All participants will receive accident and sickness insurance for the duration of their work contract, with the ability to extend as needed for an additional cost. The coverage will start the day before your camp contract begins and ends the day after your contract ends. To learn more about your insurance coverage, refer to the Insurance Information section of this handbook.
Orientation
Before you arrive in the U.S. you will be provided with a thorough online orientation. This orientation video is a mandatory program requirement, and will take approximately one hour to finish. During the orientation you will learn about your health insurance, safety tips, travel suggestions and many other helpful topics. Please contact us if you have any questions about the contents of your orientation.
In addition, you will receive an in-person orientation at camp, usually lasting between three and five days. However, because each camp is run differently, these orientations will vary in type and length.
Program Assistance
InterExchange Camp USA will provide you with 24-hour support for the duration of the program, including the 30 day grace period after camp. If there is an emergency that occurs after normal business hours (Monday – Friday, 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. EST) or on a holiday, you can reach a member of the InterExchange Camp USA team at our 24-hour emergency number: 1-917-741-5057.
Self and Returning Placement Participants
Self Placement participants are those who have received a job offer from a camp prior to submitting their application to InterExchange.
Returning Placement participants are those who have worked at a U.S. summer camp in a previous year and have decided to return for another summer.
Important: InterExchange is only permitted to sponsor a very limited number of participants who have previously worked at camp more than once. If an applicant is returning for their 3rd summer (or more), sponsorship is subject to availability.
If you are applying for the Self or Returning Placement program, you:
- Will not have access to the “matching system”
- Have already received and accepted a formal offer from a U.S summer Camp
- Are responsible for the cost of your travel to and from the U.S
- Will negotiate the terms of your offer directly with your camp
- Must satisfy and demonstrate eligibility for the program
The Self and Returning Placement programs include:
- J-1 Visa Documentation and Sponsorship
- Insurance
- Orientation
- Program Assistance
Get started today
It’s free to start an application and nothing is due until you accept a job offer.
