ccusa
ccusa
Work Experience USA
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Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about the Work Experience USA program?  We have answers!  

Most of the common questions we get regarding the program are answered below.  Browse through the list of the questions in the categories below.  Of course, if your question hasn't been answered, don't hesitate to contact your nearest office.

Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  Do I have to be a student to go?
Yes, the program is only open to Full-time Post Secondary study students that are returning and enrolled to study after they have completed the Work Experience USA program or those they have just graduated from a Fulltime University, College or TAFE.
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  What are the age limits for participants?
The age range for the program is 18-29.
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  Can I arrange a job before I go?
Yes, in fact we recommend to all participants that they locate their job before going to the US. If you are confident about finding your own job, then the Independent Option is the right choice for you. If you are too busy to spend the time it will take or not confident about approaching a US employer, then you can choose our Placement or Job Fair Option.

If you choose the Placement Option, CCUSA will organize your job before you go. These jobs could include working at a ski resort in one of many different US states, a hotel in California, or in retail.

If you choose the Independent Option, you have access to the CCUSA Job Hunt Site to get you started in your search.. This option is ideal if you want a job more specific to your degree or career ambitions.

In some countries, you can choose from a third option - Job Fairs. With this option, you will have the opportunity to interview face to face with US employers that travel to your home country to hire staff on the spot. If you are not able to get to the job fair city, you might be able to have a telephone or virtual interview with an employer. Contact your local CCUSA office for more details. This is a very popular option and interview appointments fill very quickly, so be sure to sign up in advance.
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  Can I work with friends?
Yes. A lot of students apply for jobs with their friends on the Independent Program. Just make sure you both notify your employer in your cover letter, that you are seeking employment at the same employer.
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  What is a DS2019 form?
The DS2019 form is a US government form that allows you to apply for your J-1 Visa at the US Consulate. The form is provided to you by CCUSA, your sponsor, after you have met the qualifications for the program.
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  How do I apply for my J1 Visa?
The process varies at each US consulate. Your local CCUSA office will have all the necessary instructions and paperwork to apply for your J-1 Visa.
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  Do I need to attend a personal interview at the US consulate?
Yes. To apply for the J1 Visa you must attend a personal interview at the US Consulate. Your local CCUSA office will provide information on booking and attending your appointment.
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  Can I extend my visa after it has expired?
No. It is NOT possible to extend your visa. You are only able to work during the legal program dates as indicated on the DS-2019 visa form, supplied to you by CCUSA.
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  Do I have to take the CCUSA insurance policy?
Yes. Economy Insurance coverage for the duration of your work visa (dates on your DS2019 form) is included with the program. This policy is specifically designed with young travellers in mind. There is no free health service in the US and medical care is very expensive, so we want to ensure that you are adequately covered. You can upgrade and extend this policy, so please be sure to read the policy carefully so you know what is covered and what is not. 
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  Do most participants cover their costs on Work Experience USA?
This depends on you. How much money you bring back will be affected by how much you work and how you decide to spend your money.
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  Where will I live?
Some employers provide employee housing options. However, you may need to arrange your own housing if employee housing is not provided by your employer.. Your employer may be able provide you with housing options or leads . Our Independent Option website also lists housing websites!
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  Is there someone I can speak to about the program to find out what to expect?
Yes. In addition to being on university campuses around the country, we will also be holding CCUSA Presentations. These will provide information about working, traveling, your visa, flights, insurance, etc. Details about when and where we will be visiting your campus are available on the website under “More Information”. The Work Experience USA presentations last approximately one hour and we strongly recommend you attend one. You may always contact our local office via phone or email with any questions.
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  I have decided to do this program, is it hard to meet others that have applied?
No, it is easy to meet people through the pre-departure meetings, on CCUSA group flights or even at your job. You won't be alone for long! Some past participants have preferred traveling on their own as it opens them up to meeting Americans and other new friends.. Part of the experience is meeting new people and making friends from around the globe.
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  What is the average price for accommodation?
The majority of Work Experience USA participants said that their rent was $50-$150 per week. Although rent can certainly be higher, many also found cheaper accommodation. If you are thinking about living in a large city (New York, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Miami, Washington DC, etc) or resort towns then you can expect to pay higher rent.