For Host Companies
It’s a U.S. Department of State program that allows companies and organizations to host international university students, recent graduates and early-career professionals for short-term internships and training programs while taking part in cultural exchange experiences.
Host companies gain access to a global talent pool, bring fresh perspectives into the workplace, promote cultural exchange, and support international workforce development—all without long-term hiring obligations.
Hosting companies or organizations must provide:
- A structured training plan (described on a DS-7002 form) that offers a meaningful training experience that aligns to the participant’s educational/professional background
- A full time professional experience (at least 32 hours/ week) in an in-person environment (at least 60% of the time, or 3 of 5 days per week in the office)
- Pay or stipend in accordance with FLSA and local and state minimum wage laws
Worker’s compensation coverage of all participants
It varies program to program, but generally:
Interns: Up to 12 months
Trainees: Up to 18 months
No—this is a cultural and educational exchange, not a job or work visa. The focus must remain on structured learning and training. The J-1 non-immigrant visa requires participants to return to their home country after the program ends.
For Potential Intern or Trainee Participants
Interns: Must be enrolled full-time in a postsecondary institution outside the U.S. or have graduated within the past 12 months.
Trainees: Must have a degree + 1 year of work experience or 5 years of experience in the field (outside the U.S.).
Eligibility depends on whether you meet the criteria for either the intern or trainee category. Our team will guide you through the eligibility check during the application process.
It comes down to education and experience: Interns are still in or recently graduated from university; Trainees have more career experience.
Some applicants secure their own internship or training offer, while others work with us or a partner to find one. We can support you in identifying or confirming a host organization.
Absolutely. The J-1 program offers real-world experience, cultural exchange, and global perspective—all highly valued by employers around the world.
Yes. U.S. law requires all J-1 participants to have health insurance for the entire duration of their program, including the 30-day grace period. Your coverage must include:
- At least $100,000 per accident or illness
- $50,000 for emergency medical evacuation
- $25,000 for repatriation of remains
- A deductible no higher than $500 per accident/illness
To make things easier, One To World partners with a trusted insurance provider and arranges coverage for all J-1 participants as part of the program. You don’t need to find your own plan—we’ll handle it for you!
Participate in an event
Throughout the year, One To World organizes a variety of programs—walking tours, concerts and theater productions, receptions, and other social activities for international students—to foster intercultural understanding by creating face-to-face experiences among local communities, international students and Fulbright scholars.