Intern + Trainee Exchange USA
Intern + Trainee programs allow college and university students, recent graduates, and young professionals the opportunity to gain exposure to U.S. culture and receive hands-on experience in U.S. business practices in their occupational field.
Cenet sponsors programs in the following ccupational categories
Intern: Arts and Culture; Education, Social Sciences, Library Science, Counseling and Social Services; Hospitality and Tourism; Information Media and Communications; Management, Business, Commerce and Finance; Public Administration and Law; The Sciences, Engineering, Architecture, Mathematics and Industrial Occupations
Trainee: Arts and Culture; Hospitality and Tourism; Information Media and Communications; Management, Business, Commerce and Finance; The Sciences, Engineering, Architecture, Mathematics and Industrial Occupations
You can apply for visa sponsorship through Cenet after you have secured your internship/training position, or you can check Cenet's list of placement opportunities for possible assistance.
Eligibility Requirements
All Intern + Trainee applicants must:
- Have sufficient English language skills to comfortably navigate an English-speaking work environment.
- The host organization must provide a structured and guided training program that enhances the Intern or Trainee's professional skills.
In addition, the following additional requirements apply based on the program category.
Intern
- Be currently enrolled or recently graduated from a college or university outside the U.S. – OR – be a recent graduate(within 12 months of program start) from such an institution.
- Have an internship directly related to your academic field.
- Participate from 3 weeks to 12 months
Trainee
- Hold a degree or certificate from a college or university outside the U.S. AND have at least one year of related work experience outside the U.S. – OR – have at least five years of relevant work experience outside the U.S. (if no post-secondary degree).
- Have a training program directly related to your previous education or professional experience.
- Participate from 3 weeks to 18 months (or from 3 weeks to 12 months if in the hospitality and tourism field).
How Do I Apply?
- Review the program information and resources below to familiarize yourself with the requirements.
- Determine for which program you are eligible: Intern or Trainee.
- Secure your internship or training position in the U.S. (Cenet has limited placements available).
- Work with your host organization to complete the DS-7002 Training/Internship Placement Plan. Your host will also need to complete a Host Organization Information/Agreement Form and provide a certificate of workers' compensation insurance.
- Complete your Cenet program application.
- Attend a personalized, virtual program orientation with Cenet.
- Apply for your visa. Once you have been approved, Cenet will issue the necessary documentation for your visa application.
We recommend starting the application process at least six weeks before your desired start date. Contact us with any questions!
What to expect
Advance your career and gain international expertise while immersed in U.S. culture. The Intern +Trainee Programs let you experience the American workplace, improve your English, and learn practical skills on a structured internship or training program.
Ready to embark on a new adventure?
Intern + Trainee programs give your business access to young professionals with unique cultural insights and skills. Forge international business connections and mentor the future of global talent by hosting a J-1 BridgeUSA Intern or Trainee.
Host Requirements
- Have a physical presence in the U.S.
- Provide participants with meaningful professional experience, onsite supervision and a structured program that outlines clear learning objectives, mentorship, and practical skill development.
- Provide participants with a minimum of 32 hours per week.
- Comply with the employment terms noted on the DS-7002 Training/Internship Placement Plan.
- Communicate promptly with Cenet regarding such things as training changes, employment concerns, emergencies or any situation that impacts the participant's health, safety or welfare.
How Do I Become a Host?
How do I become a host?
- Work with your Intern or Trainee applicant to complete a DS-7002 Training/Internship Placement Plan
- Complete a Host Organization Information/Agreement Form
- Provide a copy of your organization's current certificate of workers' compensation insurance
- Complete a site visit with Cenet representative (only required for some hosts)
For more information on hosting an exchange visitor, please download Cenet's Host Organization Guidebook.
Interested in becoming a host?
Why Cenet
Cenet opens doors to life-changing cultural exchange experiences. Whether this is your first time traveling abroad or you are a returning program participant, Cenet will ensure you are supported while having a fun and rewarding journey.
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