Update on J-1 Non-degree Program from ISS Director

Dear colleagues,

While I recognize many departments and faculty are interested in hosting individuals for training and research opportunities who do not qualify for the J-1 scholar category, the International Student Services (ISS) office is unable to continue the J-1 non-degree student program at UW-Madison. I regret that ISS is unable to serve this population since these individuals are not enrolled in classes and are not students at the UW.  However, there are sponsors who are approved by the U.S. Department of State to serve this population.  These sponsors bring the individuals to the United States as J-1 interns or as J-1 trainees. These sponsors prepare the immigration documents and UW-Madison is then the host organization.  UW-Madison would not prepare any immigration documents.  UW-Madison is not approved by the U.S. Department of State to sponsor J-1 interns and J-1 trainees.

Below is a list of some providers who offer sponsorship and placement for these J-1 interns and trainees. Host departments will need to review them to identify potential matches that suit specific needs. I do not endorse or recommend any program, this is just a suggested list for your consideration.

Please let me know if you have any questions by emailing iss@studentlife.wisc.edu. Thank you.

Name Website Notes
CICD Global Opportunities https://www.cicdgo.com/internships-in-the-usa/ No responsibilities from the host organization during the application process, besides filling out DS-7002 Training plan, are indicated on the company website.
Council of International Programs USA https://www.cipusa.org/service/internships-1-visa (Same as above) No responsibilities from the host organization during the application process, besides filling out DS-7002 Training plan, are indicated on the company website.
InterExchange https://www.interexchange.org/travel-abroad/intern-usa/ Host organization needs to complete the Career Training Program and Employer Details section of the application.
Intrax Global Internships https://www.globalinternships.com/j1visa-service Host organization will be contacted to verify specific contact information, followed by a  brief phone interview..
Cultural Vistas https://culturalvistas.org/programs/us/j-1-internships-training/ Require both the individual and the host organization to complete separate online applications.
IIE Institute of International Education https://www.iie.org/Programs/Global-Experience-and-Training  and https://www.iie.org/Work-With-Us/US-Exchange-Visitor-Sponsorship Host organization needs to register in company database and post research opportunities.