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Programs

Compare the programs

Two ways to spend time working in the USA on a J1 visa. Here's how they stack up, side by side.

Summer Work & Travel compared with Internship / Trainee
Summer Work & TravelApplications closedInternship / Trainee2026/27
RegistrationApplications closed2026/27 Registration Open
Who it's forFull-time college and university students who want a summer of work, travel and new experiences in the USA.Hospitality & Tourism graduates and experienced hospitality workers.
Age18-3318-35 (Intern and Trainee)
Education & experienceFull-time student at an accredited tertiary institution (associate, bachelor's or master's), with at least one semester completed before your visa appointment.Intern: Hospitality & Tourism graduate within the last 12 months (letter of completion accepted).
Trainee: 5+ years' experience, or a Hospitality & Tourism degree plus 1 year full-time experience.
Minimum GPA2.0Not stated
Example jobsHotels, Restaurants, Theme parks, Retail storesHotels (rooms / guest services), food & beverage, culinary arts
Example locationsNew York, Texas, Utah, California and moreHawaii, Florida, Maine, Colorado and more
DocumentsNone needed to registerIntern: Updated resume; Transcript; Letter of completion, or your degree.
Trainee: Updated resume; Employment verification letter(s) confirming your years of experience.
After the programN/ACannot be extended. Return home for 2 years before you're eligible again.
Duration3-4 monthsInternship: 1 year

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