J-1 Visa Requirements: US Department of State J-1 visa regulations state that all candidates must fit into one of the following two categories to qualify for a J-1 visa:

• Current student or recent graduate of an accredited post-secondary institution with a degree focusing on the type of J-1 visa program they are applying for.  Candidates who graduated more than 1 year before the start of their J-1 program  must have at least 1 year of professional experience (gained OUTSIDE the US). Candidates who have not yet graduated must have been enrolled for at least 2 semesters before attending their J-1 program.

• Candidates without post-secondary degrees must have at least 5 years of professional experience focusing on the type of J-1 visa program they are applying for (gained OUTSIDE the US).

In addition to simply qualifying for the J-1 visa, candidates must also meet the following requirements:

• In addition to all program-related fees, candidates must be prepared to pay for initial expenses, such as an apartment rental deposit, food and transportation, before they receive their first pay check (we recommend bringing at least $2,000 USD).
• Candidates should be independent and comfortable with facing challenges on their own.
• Candidates should be flexible and willing to participate in the program on the weekends and holidays.
• Candidates should be comfortable with securing an apartment on their own (using the resources we will provide).
• The most successful candidates are flexible about the location of their J-1 visa program, as Zoped Internships cannot guarantee that we can place a candidate in their preferred city/state. However, if specific location is a requirement, please let us know at the beginning of your application, and we will try our best to accommodate your needs.

Candidate Responsibilities: Successful J-1 visa candidates will be fully prepared to take on the following responsibilities:

• Check email daily for alerts about interview date/times.
• Be willing to interview within one (1) days’ notice and accommodate interviewers when they are available (we will do as much as possible to accommodate for time differences).
• Stay positive and flexible while realizing that not everything may go as planned.
• Realize that the J-1 visa market is highly competitive. There are many qualified applicants applying for the same positions. Therefore, the amount of time it takes to receive an offer can vary greatly between applicants and not all applicants will receive interview requests or offers; however, we will coach you to be as successful as possible in the application process.
• Bring funds to cover expenses prior to receiving your first pay check (we recommend that you bring at least $2,000).
• Secure your own housing in the US (we will provide a list of apartment options but will not facilitate the rental application process).
• Submit your application to Zoped Internships at least three (3) months prior to desired start date.

Documents Required for the J-1 Visa Application:

• Resume/CV
• Basic Introduction Video (uploaded to youtube or similar service)
• TOEFL/IELTS English Language Test with the following minimum scores: internet-based (at least 75); computer-based (at least 213); paper-based (at least 550)
• Copy of official academic transcript or records (if applicable)
• Copy of passport (must be valid for at least 6 months after the program start date)
• J1 Intern Trainee Fee Transparency Acknowledgement form
• Signed agreement to participation terms and conditions
• Proof of sufficient funds
• Signed Training Plan (DS-7002)— by both the participant and the Host Company

Additional items may be required after placement with a Host Company.  Zoped Internships will support you throughout your application process and assist with any questions you may have.

Please note that fabrication of credentials will result in J-1 Visa program denial.