Internship in the USA [J-1 Intern Visa] : Applying for the J-1 Internship Program and Its Costs

WhatsApp Group Join Now
Telegram Join Now

Embarking on an internship is a powerful way to jumpstart your career. Internships provide valuable networking opportunities and help build critical skills for professionals worldwide. If you’re considering an international internship, the J-1 Intern Visa program in the USA could be your gateway. Below, we’ve broken down everything you need to know about the J-1 Intern Visa, from eligibility to application steps.

What is the J-1 Intern Visa?

The J-1 Intern Visa is a non-immigrant visa designed for international students seeking to gain practical experience in the United States. It supports educational and cultural exchanges, allowing participants to acquire professional knowledge while immersing themselves in American life.

For students aiming to join internships in the USA, prestigious institutions like Harvard University have compiled comprehensive resources to guide applicants through the J-1 Visa process.

Eligibility Requirements for the J-1 Intern Visa

To qualify for the J-1 Intern Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be actively enrolled in a degree program at a recognized post-secondary institution outside the U.S. at the time of application.
Participate in an internship program in the U.S. that aligns with the academic learning requirements of their current degree program.
Be eligible for up to 12 months of internship per degree level.
Demonstrate sufficient English proficiency to perform tasks during the internship.
Commit to returning to their home country and institution upon completion of the internship.
Have adequate funds to cover living expenses during their stay.
Meet health insurance requirements mandated by the J-1 Visa program.

Duration of the J-1 Intern Visa

The J-1 Intern Visa allows students to remain in the U.S. for up to 12 months, provided they remain enrolled at their home institution throughout the internship.

Extension Options: If the initial internship duration is less than 12 months, extensions can be requested. This must be done before the end date specified on the DS-2019 and DS-7002 forms.

Steps to Apply for the J-1 Internship in 2025

Navigating the application process is straightforward if you follow these steps:

Secure an Internship Offer: Begin by accepting an offer from Harvard University or an affiliated partner organization.
Obtain Visa Documentation: Receive the necessary forms, including DS-2019 and DS-7002, from the Harvard International Office (HIO).
Supervisor Authorization: Request your internship supervisor’s dated signature on your DS-7002 form.
Pay the SEVIS Fee: Submit the I-901 SEVIS fee after receiving your DS-2019 form.
Complete the DS-160 Form: Apply for your visa online using the DS-160 form. Dependents, if any, must complete separate forms.
Visa Application: Apply for your J-1 Visa at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country.
Attend the Visa Interview: Prepare for and attend your visa interview, providing all required documents.

When to Enter the USA with a J-1 Visa

Once your visa is approved, U.S. immigration regulations allow you to enter the country up to 30 days before the program start date mentioned in Item 3 of your Form DS-2019. This provides time to settle in and familiarize yourself with your new environment.

Cost of the J-1 Internship Program

The total cost of participating in the J-1 Internship program includes:

SEVIS I-901 fee ($220 for most applicants).
Visa application fee ($185, subject to change).
Additional costs such as health insurance, travel, and living expenses, which vary depending on location and lifestyle.
Some programs may offer partial or full funding, so check with your internship provider for financial assistance options.

Benefits of a J-1 Intern Visa

The J-1 Intern Visa provides a unique opportunity to:

Gain hands-on experience in your chosen field.
Expand your professional network on a global scale.
Immerse yourself in American culture and work ethics.
Boost your resume with international exposure.
Develop transferable skills that enhance your future career prospects.
By following these steps and understanding the eligibility requirements, you can confidently apply for the J-1 Internship program and set the stage for a transformative professional journey in the United States.

Read More