J-1 Academic Training (also called AT) is a type of off-campus employment that is directly related to the major area(s) of study for J-1 students.
J-1 students interested in pursuing AT can apply for it either during the course of study or after completing their studies. It must be approved by an International Student Affairs staff member.
Your AT must not exceed the amount of time it took for you to complete your full course of study or 18 months, whichever is shorter.
If you have pursued a degree in a STEM field you may be eligible for up to 36 months, but additional steps are required. Students should contact International Student Affairs for more information.
As a J-1 student, you are required to maintain Department of State health insurance minimums for yourself and any J-2 dependents throughout your AT.
Complete the Academic Training request application form through the International Student Portal. To complete the application, you will need an Academic Training employment letter (job offer), which includes the following information:
Your job must begin no more than 30 days after you complete your program
Yes. Part-time employment counts against the 18 or 36 month limit the same as full-time employment. Your total training time will not be extended.
If you are attending classes, you may work part-time while school is in session and full-time during the summer and winter breaks. If you have graduated, you may work full-time.
No. You have only one opportunity for Academic Training, no matter how many degrees you complete.
You must apply for Academic Training before the end date on your DS-2019.