PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
Requirements to be an Intern
Interns must be foreign nationals:
- Who are currently enrolled in and pursuing studies at a foreign degree- or certificate-granting post-secondary academic institution outside the United States; or
- Who have graduated from such an institution no more than 12 months prior to their exchange visitor program start date.
Requirements to be a Trainee
A trainee must be a foreign national who:
- Has a degree or professional certificate from a foreign post-secondary academic institution and at least one year of prior related work experience in his or her occupational field outside the United States; or
- Has five years of work experience outside the United States in the occupational field in which they are seeking training.
APPLICATION STEPS
| Inquiry | Fill the application request/contact form to submit your inquiry. A GEC representative will pre-screen your inquiry and may request additional information. Following a successful pre-screen period, you will be sent an invitation to apply email with instructions to create your GEC account in order to submit your application. |
| Application | Fill the required forms in your GEC account and submit all required documents (passport copy, proof of funds, diploma / certificates etc.). |
| Evaluation | During the evaluation of your application, all of your documents will be screened carefully for eligibility. |
| Host Placement | Once your eligibility is confirmed GEC will send you host placement opportunities that are available based on your field of training etc. Once a mutual agreement between you and a host site of activity is confirmed, GEC will work with that particular host to create your DS-7002 training plan. You will receive your DS 7002 training plan and Program Information Guide for review and acceptance directly from GEC. |
| Forms | GEC will generate your DS 2019 form as the last and final step in your application, and will mail your DS 2019 form and DS 7002 training plan to take with you to the embassy for your J1 visa appointment. |
| Pre-Departure / Arrival | Following a visa approval you will notify GEC and refer back to your Program Information Guide for your specific host placement arrival instructions. GEC will notify you of any necessary Pre-Departure orientations that need to be completed. |