Academic Training for Exchange Visitors

Academic training is designed to allow J-1 students the opportunity to apply knowledge gained in the classroom to a practical work experience. It is available for full- or part-time employment to those in both degree and non-degree programs. Academic training can be paid or unpaid. Paid academic training is normally performed after completion of studies. Unpaid academic training is a significant part of the academic program (i.e. required for the degree program).  Paid and unpaid academic training can be used before or after the completion of the academic program.

You may participate in academic training during your studies or after your studies as long as the academic training begins no later than 30 days after completion of studies. The Responsible Officer (or Alternate Responsible) of the Exchange Visitor program (the sponsor who issued the DS-2019) authorizes the academic training.

To receive academic training authorization, you must apply to your J-1 Responsible or Alternate Responsible Officer (RO/ARO), who represents your J-1 sponsor and issues your Form DS-2019. The RO/ARO, in conjunction with your financial sponsor (for paid academic training after completion of your studies), will evaluate the proposed employment to determine whether it can be authorized. If Gallaudet University sponsors your J-1, your RO/ARO is one of the advisors at the Office of International Programs and Services (OIPS).  If your program is sponsored by another institution  such as IIE, OIPS will direct you to the appropriate RO/ARO.

Academic Training - Application and Forms