Academic training is work, training, or experience related to a student's field of study.

How do I apply for Academic Training?

1. Obtain a letter of offer from your prospective employer. The letter must include the following:

• Job title
• Brief description of the "goals and objectives" of your "Training Program" (your employment)
• Dates of employment
• Location of employment
• Number of hours per week
• Name and address of your "training supervisor"

2. Take a copy of the employment letter to your academic advisor to discuss if he or she recommends this training. If so, your academic advisor must write a letter containing the following:

• The goals and objectives of the specific training program
• A description of the training program, including it location, the name and address of the training supervisor, number of hours per week, and dates of the training
• How the training relates to the student's major field of study
• Why it is an integral or critical part of the academic program of the exchange visitor

3. When you have these two letters, make an appointment with your International Student Advisor.

4. Your International Student Advisor will evaluate the program and decide whether it is appropriate. If so, he or she will write you a letter of approval.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for Academic Training? A J-1 student who:

• is in the U.S. primarily to study rather than engage in academic training;
• is in good academic standing;
• has a specific employer with a specific description of the training opportunity related to field of study; and
• has written approval in advance from the Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO) for duration and type of academic training.

When can I apply for Academic Training? You may apply before or after completion of your program of study.

Do I need a job offer in order to apply? Yes.

When can I start work under Academic Training? As soon as the start date on your approval letter from your International Student Advisor arrives.

Does Academic Training employment need to be full-time? No, but all Academic Training is counted as full time, even if the employment is on a part-time basis.

Can I change employers during my Academic Training? No, because Academic Training is based on a specific training program.

Is Academic Training a different visa? No, Academic Training is not a visa. A person with Academic Training is a J-1 student on Academic Training.