Student Immigration: Academic Training
Overview
A student in J-1 status is eligible for academic training - employment - with a specific company related to your major field of study. Employment can be either before or after graduation, but is generally limited to 18 total months. If you are a non-degree seeking/exchange student, U.S. Immigration laws give you permission to accept employment for a period of time no greater than your period of study. Note: Your program sponsor may have restrictions on your ability to accept employment, thereby making you ineligible for any academic training regardless of the U.S. laws.
Requirements
If you wish to work in this category, you will need:
- A written recommendation by your academic advisor or department head, including the type of employment, name of employer and a statement about how it relates to your field of study,
- Written permission signed by your exchange sponsor;
- Prior written approval by JMU's Responsible Officer (RO). You MUST receive approval from the RO prior to beginning the employment.
Center for Global Engagement International Student and Scholar Services
Holland Yates Hall (formerly Madison Hall)
MSC 5731
100 East Grace Street
Room 2nd Floor
Harrisonburg, Virginia 22807
MSC 5731
100 East Grace Street
Room 2nd Floor
Harrisonburg, Virginia 22807
