Overview of Academic Training

Definition

Employment, training or other experience that directly relates to J-1 status student’s field of study

Eligibility

• In valid J-1 student status
• In good academic standing
• Must be in the United States primarily for study
• Training activity must be directly related to major field of study as listed on DS-2019 form
• Must receive written approval in advance from the Responsible Officer

Types of Authorization

• Pre-Completion: During time enrolled at the institution
• Post-Completion: Immediately following completion of program (must begin no more than 30 days after program completion)

Length of Authorization

• Non-Degree Seeking Students
  • Authorization equivalent to length of time studying (4 months of study = 4 months of eligible Academic Training Time)
  • Total length of stay in the United States (Study + Academic Training) must be less than 24 months
• Degree-Seeking Students: Maximum of 18 months of authorization

Application Process

Students with DS-2019 from ISEP

1. Talk with your academic advisor, Career Works, and the International Student Advisor to prepare to look for opportunities that meet the requirements of Academic Training.
2. Make an appointment as early as possible to see the International Student Advisor to discuss the process required by ISEP.

Students with DS-2019 from Beloit

1. Talk with your academic advisor, Career Works, and the International Student Advisor to prepare to look for opportunities that meet the requirements of Academic Training.
2. Gather Required Documents
   1. Employment offer letter from your employer that contains the following information:
      1. Position Title
      2. Start date and end date
      3. Job duties
      4. Location of the employment (address, city, state, postal code)
      5. Supervisor name and contact information
   2. Letter from your Academic Advisor containing all of the following information:
      1. Goals and Objectives of the specific academic training program
      2. Description of the academic training program—including location, name and address of the supervisor, number of hours per week and dates of the training
      3. How the training relates to the student’s major field of study
      4. Why the training is an integral part of the academic program of the student
3. Make an appointment to meet with the International Student Advisor to review your paperwork and submit your application.

Academic Training must be authorized before the end date on your DS-2019.