No. One of the requirements of the program is having active student status. Students who are on academic leave are not eligible to participate.

Yes, but only if you continue your education immediately by enrolling in another degree program, whether at the same or a different university. Students who complete their studies in March and do not continue their education will lose their student status. J-1 visa interviews usually begin at the end of March and continue through June. During the interview, you must present a valid student ID and an academic transcript (or an official printout from the university’s online academic system).

Yes. In addition to the standard eligibility requirements, international students must provide a copy of their visa or residence permit in Poland. The document must remain valid at least until their return from the program.

Yes. We assist participants throughout the entire process, from registration and program documents to visa interview preparation and departure arrangements.

Your earnings depend on your position, the number of hours worked, and the location of your employment. Many participants are able to cover a significant portion of their program expenses through their summer job in the United States.

Yes. After completing your employment, you may use your Grace Period to travel and explore the United States.

No. The visa cannot be extended. You may only work during the period specified on your DS-2019 Form, which depends on your availability, your university’s academic calendar, and the dates approved for participants from your country (May 25 through September 30).

This depends primarily on the employer. If accommodation is not provided, this information is clearly indicated in the job description. Whenever possible, we help participants find suitable housing.

Most participants live in shared rooms with two to four people. Accommodation standards vary significantly. Some participants stay in apartments with amenities such as swimming pools and fitness centers, while others stay in housing comparable to university dormitories.

Housing costs generally range from approximately 25 to 120 USD per week per person.

SEVIS is a system introduced by the United States government to monitor participants in international educational and cultural exchange programs.

Every participant is required to update their personal information, including their residential address and employment details, through the sponsor’s SEVIS system within 10 days of the start date listed on the DS-2019 Form.

Yes. Comprehensive medical insurance is included in the program fee and complies with U.S. government requirements.

Coverage includes medical expenses (up to 100,000 USD), baggage loss, personal liability, and additional benefits.

For CIEE participants, insurance is provided for the entire stay. Other sponsors generally provide coverage through the end date listed on the DS-2019 Form, but no later than September 30.

If you plan to travel extensively with friends, buying a used car is often the most convenient and cost-effective option. A reliable vehicle usually costs at least 500 USD, and insurance can cost several hundred dollars more.

For shorter trips lasting one to two weeks, renting a car or camper van may be more economical. Rental prices usually range from approximately 30 to 100 USD per day.

If you are traveling alone or with one other person, domestic flights can often be the best option, especially when booked in advance.

Greyhound buses are another relatively inexpensive way to travel, although journeys can be less comfortable and more time-consuming.

U.S. immigration officers may ask you to present:

• A valid passport (valid for at least six months after your return) with a valid J-1 visa and DS-2019 Form.
• A round-trip airline ticket.
• Proof of financial resources, ideally at least 1,000 USD.

Travel to your employer using the transportation instructions provided before departure. You must also remember to complete your SEVIS registration within the required timeframe.

The time difference ranges from 6 to 9 hours because the continental United States spans multiple time zones. For example, when it is 9:00 PM in Poland, it is approximately 3:00 PM in New York and 12:00 PM in Los Angeles.

Yes. Federal taxes are deducted from your paycheck in every state, and many states also collect state income tax. Some cities and municipalities may additionally impose local taxes.

After returning from the USA, you may be eligible to apply for a tax refund during the following tax season. Depending on your circumstances, a significant portion of the taxes paid may be refunded.

Before departure, make at least two copies of all important documents, including your passport, visa, DS-2019 Form, driver’s license, and other identification documents.

While in the USA, it is often safer to carry copies and keep original documents in a secure location.

If you lose your passport or DS-2019 Form, contact your sponsor organization and the nearest Polish consulate or embassy immediately.

Requirements vary by state. In some states a Polish driver’s license is sufficient, while in others you may also be asked for an International Driving Permit.

For this reason, we recommend obtaining an International Driving Permit before departure.

Generally, you must be at least 21 years old, possess a valid driver’s license, and have a credit card with sufficient available credit. An International Driving Permit may also be required by some rental companies.

For trips to Canada or Mexico, an additional U.S. visa is generally not required. However, before traveling outside the United States, you must contact your sponsor organization and obtain the required travel authorization and DS-2019 validation signature.
Please note that travel outside the United States is permitted only while your DS-2019 Form remains valid. International travel is not allowed during the additional 30-day Grace Period. If you plan to travel elsewhere, such as South America or Cuba, make sure to check in advance whether you will need a visa or any other entry permit for your destination.

Yes. Once you have obtained a Social Security Number, you can open a U.S. bank account using your Social Security Number, passport, J-1 visa, and DS-2019 Form. This allows you to deposit your earnings and later transfer funds to your home.