1. Go to the USA
  2. Intern or Train in the USA
  3. How to Apply
  4. Application Process
Intern on laptop

Application Process

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Your CIEE international representative will invite you to Beacon to complete the participant application and will answer any questions you have while completing it. The application should be filled out with as much detail as possible to ensure that your application is processed quickly.

In addition to the application, you will be asked to submit additional documents to show your eligibility for the program. These attachments may include, but are not limited to:

  • A copy of your passport
  • Proof of funds or proof of financial support
  • Proof of university enrollment OR a university diploma (if you have graduated)
  • A course list or transcript
  • English language test scores
  • A resume or CV
  • Copies of previous US Visas

It is important that all information provided in both the application and any attachments is complete, current, and truthful. Additionally, any documents that are not in English, such as a diploma or course list, must have an English translation submitted with them. 

Your Training Plan (Form DS-7002)

As part of your application, you will be required to submit a formal training plan* – outlined on Form DS-7002 – which is required by the U.S. Department of State for all interns and trainees participating in the J-1 visa program. Developed by your host organization, your training plan helps to ensure that you will have a successful experience that includes both professional development and cultural exchange.

Your training plan should clearly describe what you will be doing during your time with your host organization, what skills you will learn, how cultural exchange will be encouraged, and how your performance will be measured.

*Does not apply to 1-Year Graduate USA Visa Program participants. 1-Year Graduate USA Visa participants will submit a training plan once they have arrived in the U.S. and secured a placement. 

The DS-7002, or Training Plan, is a required document for J-1 Intern and Trainee programs. The purpose of this document is to:

  • Detail information about the host organization and the nature of the position it is offering – serving as a formal, signed agreement between participant and host organization.
  • Chart the stages of professional development and set tasks and objectives to help participants, host organizations, and CIEE fully understand what is expected.
  • Ensure that the training is relevant to the participant’s goals and background and does not duplicate past experience. 

Your host organization will be responsible for filling out your DS-7002, which must be submitted to CIEE along with your program application. Provide the organization with detailed information about your skills, education level, and English proficiency. Talk about what you can offer the business and what kind of skills you would like to develop. This will help your host organization develop a training plan that meets your needs.

Make sure you read the completed training plan and that you and your host organization both agree on its contents. Once you have reviewed and agreed to the plan online, you must electronically sign and date the “Trainee/Intern Signature” section. Your electronic signature is your acknowledgment that you understand and agree to the training plan. 

Pro tip: Use this step-by-step guide to complete your portion of the online DS-7002.

As your sponsor, CIEE must ensure that your program meets certain regulations and guidelines. As such, we will carefully review your training plan as part of the application process. A successful training plan should clearly outline your role with the host organization and the training you will receive.

Things to consider:

  1. It is important that the training plan be detailed.
  2. Both you and CIEE should understand what you will be doing on a day-to-day basis.
  3. Know what skills you will be contributing to the company.
  4. Be aware of what the company is going to teach you. 

If your host organization needs assistance completing the DS-7002, we are always happy to help. The organization can contact us at 1-888-268-6245 or contact@ciee.org.

Have Questions About the Application?

Contact your CIEE international representative for more information.