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  5. Program Extensions and Withdrawals

Program Extensions and Withdrawals

International interns, trainees, research scholars, short-term scholars, professors, and specialists that have not yet reached the maximum program length (as listed below) may be extended up to that maximum. For more information, make a selection below:

To qualify for an extension, the host organization and intern or trainee must agree on a new phase of training that should be added to the training plan via a new DS-7002. Extending a program is a great opportunity to add value to the internship or training program by expanding training into new areas of skill development.

Extensions must be a minimum of three weeks in duration and must take place with the original host organization. The total duration of the program, including any extensions, must not exceed the maximum program length:

  • Internship USA: 12 months
  • Career Training USA:
    • 18 months (standard training and hospitality management training)
    • 12 months (all other hospitality training)

To qualify for an extension, the host organization needs to submit a revised invitation letter and a description of the extended project. Extensions must be a minimum of three weeks in duration and must take place with the original host organization. The total duration of the program, including any extensions, must not exceed the maximum program length:

  • Research Scholar USA: 5 years
  • Professor USA: 5 years
  • Short-Term Scholar USA: 6 months
  • Specialist USA: 1 year

Applying For An Extension

Applying for an extension is easy. To begin the process, the international participant should contact their CIEE international representative (for interns or trainees) or CIEE headquarters (for all other participants) four to six weeks in advance. After the extension application is complete and a new training plan has been developed*, the review process begins; this takes 15 business days. Once the extension has been approved, CIEE will send a new DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status to the host organization.

*Training plans are required only for interns and trainees; this step does not apply to other J-1 visa categories.

Program Withdrawals

Any international intern, trainee, or professional who needs to withdraw from their program for any reason should talk to their host organization supervisor and contact CIEE as soon as possible to discuss next steps.

The withdrawal process generally includes the following:

  • The host organization and participant agree to a last day. Depending on the situation, this can be immediate; however, the participant should give at least two weeks notice (if possible).
  • The participant's DS-2019 will be shortened to reflect the last day at the host organization.
  • CIEE insurance will be canceled one day after the participant’s departure from the United States (if applicable).