Academic Training for J-1 students

What is Academic Training?

Academic Training is off-campus work authorization for J-1 students either during or after their program of study. Students may have multiple employers and the work can be paid or unpaid. Academic training is considered full-time work, even if it is on a part-time basis. 

How long is Academic Training?

The duration of Academic Training is equal to the length of study. For example, if a student completes their 4-month program of study at EMU, they are eligible for 4 months of Academic Training. Undergraduates and graduate students have an Academic Training maximum limit of 18 months. Non-degree students only have a total of 2 years, inclusive of their study at EMU and eligible Academic Training.

Eligibility

• Student must be in good academic standing
• Employment must be related to student's major of study
• Employment must be approved before the student's program end date on the DS-2019
• Employment must begin within 30 days after the student's program end date on the DS-2019

Application Process

The eligible student must submit the following to OIS at least one week prior to the DS-2019 end date:

• A job offer on letterhead detailing their employment, including location, job responsibilities and dates of employment
• A support letter from the home university sponsor
• A support letter on letterhead from the student's dean or academic advisor stating:
• Goals and objectives of the training
• Description of the training, such as location, name and address of company, hours per week, employment dates
• How the training relates to the student's major field of study
• Show how the training is an integral part of the student's academic program

Please note that the OIS cannot approve Academic Training for J-1 students not sponsored by EMU. If the DS-2019 was not issued by EMU, for example Fulbright students, students should consult with their sponsor for Academic Training approval.