Frequently Asked Questions

Click on a question below to be taken to the corresponding answer further down the page.

Q1: When can I go?
Q2: When do I need to apply?
Q3: How do I apply for the program?
Q4: What does SPA need to know from my US employer?
Q5: Can I extend my work visa?
Q6: Do I need to find a job before I leave?
Q7: Can I travel around the US after my working authorisation has expired?
Q8: Do I need travel and medical insurance?
Q9: How do I start to locate a position in the US?
Q10: Why do I have to pay to go on this program?
Q11: Can I repeat the program?

When can I go?

You can go on Internship USA or Trainee USA at any time of the year.

When do I need to apply?

Your full application, certified by your employer, must be submitted to Student Placement Australia a minimum of 8 weeks before your departure date.

How do I apply for the program?

You can download an application form from our website, e-mail us, or give us a call - 1300 135 331 (cost of a local call) and we will send you one. Please see How to Apply section.

What does SPA need to know from my US employer?

Your employer will be required to complete an Internship Agreement and provide information on the nature of your position, salary and dates of employment and training components. They will also need to submit a comprehensive training plan - this is the most important part of the application.

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Can I extend my work visa?

Our US partner, CIEE can sponsor you for the J-1 visa for a maximum of 18 months. If your placement is for a shorter period than this (e.g. for 6 months), you can apply for an extension up to the total time of:

Internship: 12 months.
Trainee: 18 months.

It is a requirement that you remain with the same employer and you must lodge the extension application before your original visa has expired. Extension forms will be supplied to you prior to your departure. Additional fees will apply.

Do I need to find a job before I leave?

Yes. You will need to pre-arrange your training placement before you apply and arrive in the US. See our resources for assistance.

Can I travel around the US after my working authorisation has expired?

Once your DS-2019 has expired you have 30 days from the expiration date to travel within the US.

Do I need travel and medical insurance?

Your program fee includes travel and medical insurance. Under US Government program regulations, you must have an approved level of insurance coverage. Our custom insurance plans meet this requirement. Our insurance covers you for emergency and accidents including hospital cover - but only while you are on the program. There is only limited baggage coverage and it does not cover loss of personal effects. If you are intending on taking expensive items we recommend you take out additional coverage.

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How do I start to locate a position in the US?

This website will get you started and give you lots of great ideas and resources. Surfing the net, personal contacts and mailing of your CV can all lead to a training placement. The time taken to find a suitable placement will vary considerably depending on your skills, the type of position you are looking for and how specific you are in your search. Please remember that when sending your resumé, not all employers will respond to your enquiry and so it is important that you follow up by calling them a few days after you send your CV.

Why do I have to pay to go on this program?

Your program fee cover SPA’s services to you in Australia and CIEE’s services and support whilst in the US including sponsorship of your visa. The fee also covers your insurance. For a full list of what’s included in the program fee please click here.

Can I repeat the program?

Applicants are permitted to repeat the program as long as they meet the eligibility criteria and have satisfied the required hiatus rules:

INT to INT: 90 days minimum, from old DS end date to new DS start date;
INT to Trainee: 2 years minimum.
Trainee to INT: 2 years minimum.
Trainee to Trainee: 2 years minimum.

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