What is Academic Training
Academic Training is an off-campus authorization for work or training (internship). J-1 students must receive a written approval in advance from the ISSC Alternate/Responsible Officer for a specific work or training position. Below is information to see if your position is eligible:
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Position may be paid or unpaid.
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May be part-time or full-time.
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Must be done with a specific employer or training site (ISSC Alternate/Responsible Officer approved).
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Students may have several employers at a time or change employers as long as all are in the field of study, and each employment or training is authorized by the ISSC Alternate/Responsible Officer.
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May be during the study or after completion of degree program.
Eligibility Requirements
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You must maintain immigration status and have valid immigration documents (passport, I-94, and DS-2019).
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You have completed at least one semester and must be in good academic standing.
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You must maintain valid health insurance (including J-2 dependents, if applicable) throughout the authorized Academic Training period.
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You must receive an offer for work or training prior to applying for Academic Training authorization.
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The proposed work or training must meet the eligibility criteria.
The criteria of work or training that meet the Academic Training eligibility requirements are:
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Must be related to your field of study as listed on your DS-2019.
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Must not be an unskilled occupation as defined by the U.S. Department of State.
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Must start no later than 30 days after degree completion date (for Academic Training after completing a degree program).
Duration and Time Limitations
You can participate in Academic Training for 18 months or for a period equal to the length of a degree program, whichever is shorter. For students with post-doctoral positions, Academic Training duration can be extended up to a total of 36 months.
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Part-time Academic Training is counted as full-time (i.e., 2-month of part-time Academic Training is equal to 2-month of full-time Academic Training).
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Any previously approved Academic Training during your studies will be deducted from the total amount of Academic Training after you complete your program.