Academic training is work, training, or experience related to a student’s field of study. It may involve sequential or simultaneous activities, either paid or unpaid, with several employers, U.S. or foreign, provided the application and the approval procedures are followed for each employer and activity, and the time limits are not exceeded.
Eligibility
To be eligible for Academic Training, a student must:
- Be in the United States primarily to study rather than engage in academic training. Students may not study for a short time and engage in academic training for a longer period of time.
- Have their academic training done with a specific employer or training site and be directly related to the major field of study listed on the DS-2019. A specific description of the training opportunity is required.
- Receive written approval in advance from the RO for the duration and type of academic training.
- Be in good academic standing at the school which he/she is authorized to attend
Limitations for Students in Non-Degree Programs
For students in a prescribed course of study in a non-degree program, i.e., exchange students to TCNJ, the total stay is limited to a total of 24 months, inclusive of all study time and any authorized academic training.
Academic Training Application Procedure
STEP 1:
- Obtain an offer of employment and have the prospective employer provide you with an offer letter that includes the job title, goals and objectives, dates and location of employment, number of hours per week, and the name and address of the training supervisor.
STEP 2:
- If the offer letter does not directly speak to how your internship/employment relates to your field of study, we may also request a letter from someone within your academic department to confirm that the opportunity is related to your field of study.
STEP 3:
- Make an appointment with the J-1 advisor in ISS to determine whether the Academic Training application meets the criteria set down in the regulations.
Important information about Academic Training
• The student receives written approval in advance from the responsible officer for the duration and type of academic training.
• Must be authorized within 30 days after completion of studies.
• Valid only for the dates specified on the DS-2019 form.
• Part-time employment counts the same as full-time employment.
• Must be authorized before a J-1 student leaves the United States in order to avoid difficulty in reentering for the purpose of academic training.
• Academic Training does not exceed the period of study in the U.S.
Remember, maintaining your J -1 status in the United States is your responsibility. You are expected to know and comply with federal regulatory restrictions relative to your status.