Work and Travel USA | IEC
Work and Travel USA
Any student can spend the whole summer in the USA — working, improving their English and traveling around America.
Why was Work and Travel created?
Work and Travel is a program that lets hundreds of thousands of students from different countries spend 3 to 5 months in the USA during their summer break. Participants are allowed to work and travel across the country. Most participants earn enough to cover the costs of the trip and living in the USA, and many students even bring home a few thousand extra dollars!
Work and Travel USA combines hard work with incredible downtime. It’s one of the most exciting, affordable and safe ways to dive into independent travel and discover America for yourself. What’s waiting for you across the ocean? Summer break, a taste of living independently from your parents for the first time, and a lot will depend on you whether this becomes the best summer of your life.
You can learn more about Work and Travel with our brochure and other program materials.
How it all started
Work and Travel USA has existed for over 50 years, since 1963, but it only became available to Russian students after the Soviet Union collapsed. In 1994, when we opened Work and Travel USA for Russia, everything really was a first. That summer the first 15 “джейваны” went off to discover their America. Today those first participants, now nearly 50, bring their college-age children to us to join our programs. And now, just like many years ago, despite sanctions and political chill, our participants set off on their own Columbus-style journeys.
Participant requirements
Students and graduate students from full-time and part-time programs at colleges and universities up to the age of 28 can take part. Basic conversational English is required — standard school-level skills are usually enough to qualify. You can assess your English level and get recommendations to improve it during a consultation with our coordinator.
Where and in what roles do participants work?
W&T USA participants work alongside American students in positions that don’t require special training. These vacancies are typically offered by shops, restaurants, hotels and amusement parks in small tourist towns across the country. Students can search for jobs on their own or leave it to us.
How much do they earn?
Participants’ pay depends on the state (minimum wage varies by state) and the position. Generally, students earn $8 to $15 per hour and work 40–60 hours a week. So most students make at least $2,000 a month, while those who receive tips can earn much more. Average costs for housing and food are about $500 a month, so usually a couple of months is enough to cover all trip-related expenses.
Program options
The Self Arranged option allows the participant to find an employer on their own — via the internet or through acquaintances, and to choose a city or state in the USA at their own discretion. To participate in this format, an invitation from an American employer (job offer) must be provided no later than three months before departure.
The Work and Travel program includes assistance in preparing the documents for obtaining a visa. If the visa is denied, you will be refunded the full amount paid for participation in the program, except for the initial deposit.
- Online English course lasting up to 6 months
- Online course “Applied Artificial Intelligence”
- Medical insurance for the duration of the Work and Travel program
- Review of your job vacancy for work in the USA
- Orientation materials for the program
- Guide to the USA “Discover America”
- Assistance with document preparation
- Hotline services in the USA
- Registration fee (amount depends on the participant’s city)
- SEVIS fee – $35
- Consular fee – $185
- Airfare
Participants in Work and Travel USA who are unable to pay the full cost of the program can choose the DPP option, which allows them to pay only certain fees during the application process and to cover the bulk of the program cost later in the summer from money earned in the USA.
That is, this option makes it possible to significantly reduce the budget that the participant will need to raise before flying to the USA.
More detailed information — in the materials that can be requested by clicking the button below, or from the IEC representative in your city.
Most prospective participants in Work and Travel are interested in financial matters: how much money will be needed to participate in the program, how quickly the trip expenses can be recouped, and how much can be earned over the summer?
We have prepared a calculator that will answer all questions and enable you to make an informed decision about participating in the program. The calculator provides survey data from participants in previous years and also considers various scenario options.
We would like our participants not only to work and travel with IEC, but also to develop themselves and master the tools of the future today. Therefore we offer all our participants for free:
Online English course, developed specifically for the Work and Travel USA program. The course will help pass an interview with a potential employer and the visa interview, and successfully adapt to an English-speaking environment upon arrival in the USA.
Online course Applied AI + virtual internship
The course focuses on applied tools and practices of artificial intelligence. The package includes a virtual internship at IEC. A participant who completes the training and invites a new student who has paid for the full package (both parts of the Applied AI course + virtual internship) receives a $100 discount off the program fee.
The discount can be increased by $45 for each additional referred attendee. The total discount amount is unlimited. Detailed terms are in the program participation agreement.
Receiving a certificate of completion opens up a whole world of diverse online courses, including free ones, directly from your account.
In this option for participating in the Work and Travel program, the program sponsor — InterExchange — finds work in the USA. Before departure, participants attend an online orientation session.
The Work and Travel program includes assistance with preparing the documents required to obtain a visa. If a visa is denied, you will be refunded the full amount paid for participation in the program, except for the initial deposit.
- Online English course lasting up to 6 months
- Online course “Applied Artificial Intelligence”
- Medical insurance for the duration of the Work and Travel program
- Review of your job vacancy for work in the USA
- Orientation materials for the program
- Guide to the USA “Discover America”
- Assistance with document preparation
- Hotline services in the USA
- Registration fee (amount depends on the participant’s city)
- SEVIS system operation fee – $35
- Consular fee – $185
- Airline tickets
Participants of Work and Travel USA who are unable to pay the full cost of the program can choose the DPP option, which allows them during the application process to pay only certain fees and to pay the majority of the program cost later in the summer from money earned in the USA.
That is, this option makes it possible to significantly reduce the budget that the participant will need to raise before departing for the USA.
More detailed information — in the materials that can be requested by clicking the button below, or from the IEC representative in your city.
Most prospective participants of Work and Travel are interested in financial questions: how much money will be needed to participate in the program, how quickly I will be able to recoup all the expenses for the trip, and how much can be earned over the summer?
We’ve prepared a calculator that will answer all your questions and help you make an informed decision about participating in the program.
The calculator includes survey data from past participants and also considers various scenario options.
We would like our participants not only to work and travel with IEC, but also to develop themselves and master the tools of the future today. Therefore, we offer all our participants free of charge:
An online English course specially developed for the Work and Travel USA program. The course will help participants pass an interview with a potential employer and the visa interview, and successfully adapt to an English-speaking environment upon arrival in the USA.
Online course Applied AI — a course on the currently fashionable topic of artificial intelligence. Any participant who completes the course in full and the final project, and also invites a friend to the course, will receive a $100 discount off the program fee. The discount can be increased by $15 for each new participant you refer who pays for any paid portion of the course. There is no limit to the total discount you can receive.
Receiving a certificate of course completion gives you access to a whole world of diverse online courses, including free ones, directly from your account.
Work & Travel with IEC: 35 years of great adventures!
We’ve been helping students find work in the USA for over 35 years, we know the program inside and out, and we’ve got answers to any question. Our staff have taken part in the program themselves and know it well from the inside.
You’ll get health insurance with up to $100,000 in coverage and 24/7 hotline support. Pre-departure orientation materials cover safety measures, how to keep your money safe, and other important tips.
Every participant receives a J-1 visa, which allows you to work legally in the USA, so everything is fully above board. At work you’ll have the same workplace rules and protections as other US employees.
We’ll help you find a good job, prepare you for the embassy interview, provide all the necessary information materials, and answer questions after you arrive in the USA via the hotline.
Prices are locked in dollars at the time of registration, so you’ll know exactly how much you need to earn in the USA. No extra deposits are charged. You can choose what to pay for and what to arrange yourself.
Our center’s offices have been operating for many years in 13 countries around the world. Over 110,000 students from these countries have already used our advice and services, and most are ready to repeat their successful experience.
Take a step toward your dream with the Work and Travel program from IEC!
Join the thousands of students who have already made their own “discovery of America”!
Uma2rman recommends…
If you want to be truly ready for the program, be sure to attend our regular Work and Travel USA webinars. We’ll cover all the key questions that affect the success and safety of your trip. To get an invite to the next webinar in Telegram, click the button — we’ll remind you about the broadcast one day before it starts. Webinars are held in Russian.
We’ll tell you the best ways to boost your conversational English, plus services and tools that will definitely help.
We’ll look closely at all the important factors to consider when choosing the state and city in the USA where you’ll spend the summer.
We’ll tell you the best ways to boost your conversational English, plus services and tools that will definitely help.
We’ll introduce you to all the job opportunities available to program participants and explain what to watch for when picking your job.
We’ll look closely at all the important factors to consider when choosing the state and city in the USA where you’ll spend the summer.
We’ll recommend the most interesting and exciting routes for your future trip around America and explain how to save money when planning the trip yourself.
Trip reviews
What level of English do I need to join the program?
Working in the USA requires at least a basic everyday level of English. Your skills should be enough so you don’t get lost in the first days. Conversational level is enough (about 5–6 out of 10). You’ll need English already when looking for vacancies in the U.S., and definitely while working there.
Is it hard to pass the English interview?
The first step to join the Work and Travel USA program is an interview with the program coordinator. It’s a short, simple chat about general topics: where you study, how you spend your free time, and why you want to go to the USA. Nothing difficult.
How do I pay for the program?
Within a week after the interview at IEC you pay the registration fee. The remaining program cost must be paid within a week after your employer is confirmed by the sponsor.
What is the deadline to provide a job offer when searching for work myself?
Three months before your desired travel date, so roughly March 1. This deadline can be extended by agreement with IEC.
How do I look for a second job once I’m there?
The vast majority of students in this program work in resort towns. The ground floors in those towns are a nonstop row of shops, restaurants, and hotels. You just need to walk down the street and keep an eye out. As soon as you see a red “Help wanted” sign — go in. Even without a sign it’s worth checking, since in season these resort towns turn into real tourist-service conveyor belts.
Can I join the program with work provided?
Of course — that option exists, and it’s not much more expensive, roughly $300 extra.
My friend and I are going together — can we work in the same town?
Yes. Just put the name and surname of the person you’re traveling with on your application.
What is the minimum wage?
The federal minimum wage in the USA is $7.25 per hour. Upon arrival, you should have at least $1,000, plus enough funds to cover travel to your workplace and initial living expenses.
When can I fly to the USA?
The earliest possible departure date depends on the participant’s country of residence. See full timing details below in the Schedule section.
How do I submit documents to join?
To apply for the program, just call us or fill out the form at the bottom of the page. After that, the program coordinator will explain all the steps in detail and schedule your interview to check your English level.
What is form DS-2019?
The DS-2019 form is issued electronically but is a crucial document you need to apply for the J-1 visa. Only a very small number of organizations — program sponsors — can issue the DS-2019 form.
What is the J-1 visa?
This visa lets you legally work in the USA during your summer break.
Is it expensive to rent an apartment?
One main thing to keep in mind: the farther from the center, the cheaper it gets. In most resort towns you can usually find student housing for $80–$100 per person per week.
Where should I start looking for housing?
Most U.S. employers offer housing for an extra fee. Usually details about accommodation are listed in your job offer.
A job offer marked “help with housing” means the employer doesn’t provide housing but is willing to help you find it. You should contact the employer to learn what options they can suggest. They typically share contacts of landlords who rent to students. From there you’ll need to use your people skills and arrange the deal yourself.
A job offer marked “housing provided” means the employer offers accommodation for the duration of your work. Rent may be deducted from your paycheck. Employers who routinely hire international students often do this: they rent a house or apartment for students, and students pay a weekly rent. Be prepared to share a room with other students. It’s a great chance to make new friends and practice diplomacy while sharing one bathroom between three!
If your employer doesn’t provide housing or you choose to find your own, there are plenty of resources. Sites like craigslist.org and social media groups, including Facebook, can help you find suitable housing. Just remember to check reviews and avoid places with ghost listings — they rarely pay utilities!
How do I get to my employer?
On your own. Almost all program participants fly into JFK airport in New York. After passport control you’ll collect your baggage and proceed through customs. An immigration officer will stamp your passport with entry date, visa type, and duration of stay. The corresponding I-94 record will also be created, accessible at www.cbp.gov/i94. You can get from the airport to the city by bus — about $16 to Port Authority — or by subway — $3 (from the airport to Howard Beach station take the JFK AirTrain — $8.50, then the A train). A taxi to central Manhattan costs about $75–$80. If you arrive in the evening you can spend the night in a hostel and then head to the bus station or train terminal. Plan your travel across the USA in advance using major carriers’ websites: Greyhound (buses) and Amtrak (trains).
Where should I keep my money?
Only in your bank account and nowhere else! If you keep cash at home, you could become a victim of theft.
How do I stay in touch?
The easiest way is to use messengers like WhatsApp, Telegram, or Skype. They let you make free calls when you have an internet connection.
Is medical insurance provided during the program?
Students won’t have to pay huge medical bills in the USA because they’ll be reliably protected by insurance. We hope participants stay healthy and never need it, but just in case: the total insurance coverage is $150,000.
How to stay healthy in America?
Work a lot, drink less soda (that’s what Americans call sweet fizzy drinks like Coca-Cola and Pepsi), bike to and from work, avoid overeating free food, and don’t be afraid to cook proper meals at home sometimes.
Your schedule until summer
September – February
Attend an interview with a coordinator
First, you need to attend an interview with a representative of our office. The interview lasts 3–5 minutes. In English. Very simple questions and equally simple answers.
Sign the contract
If your language proficiency meets the requirements of the Work and Travel program, you sign the participation agreement and pay the initial fee. As a rule, at the beginning of the season, i.e. in the autumn, the program is cheaper and becomes somewhat more expensive closer to November–December. Attention! The contract is very long and boring. But you must read it before signing.
Fill out the online application
After signing the contract you need to go to the social network for “J-1 participants”, complete the online application for the chosen program and select a start date for work.
Find a job on your own or with our help
Participants in the Work and Travel SELF ARRANGED option search for jobs in America on their own. After that we need to send the job offer to our partners for verification. After the job offer is confirmed by the program sponsor, the DS-2019 form necessary to obtain a visa is issued. If you choose the FULL SERVICE program option, our American partner selects the job in the USA.
February – May
Attend the visa interview at the U.S. Embassy
After receiving the DS-2019 form, you fill out the visa application, and you are given an interview date — a 2–4 minute conversation with a consular officer who decides whether to issue you a U.S. visa.
Receive the visa and other documents
After receiving the visa IEC provides program participants with health insurance and informational materials.
May – July
Fly to the USA
So, you’ve successfully completed all the steps — which means the prize is yours! You’re heading to America, where you’ll work and travel. You can pack your backpack, read our numerous informational materials, and prepare for departure. You can start working in the States at any time, beginning from the date set for your country.
August – September
Return home!
The duration of the student Work and Travel program varies depending on the participant’s country of residence — these special conditions for students allow them to return from the United States in time and continue their studies in their home country. In addition to summer earnings, you can receive a bonus upon return if you claim a tax refund. And if you plan to participate again, you can use that amount for another trip through the Work and Travel program!
how to enroll in the program
Since 1989 more than 110 000 thousand students have participated in our programs
We ourselves have participated in the Work and Travel program many times and can tell in detail about our personal stories and about the experiences of the thousands of students who have taken part in the program. We will be able to prepare you for your upcoming trip most comprehensively.
We will answer all your questions, help you find travel companions and decide on a program option. We will be by your side at every step of the application process and will do everything to make next summer the best summer of your life!
Requirements for participants, the enrollment period, the price and the terms of the program may depend on the participant’s citizenship and country of study. Up-to-date information on these matters will be provided by the program coordinator during a consultation with the student.
Choose the program option that suits you
Fill out the feedback form below – a coordinator will contact you
Take an interview to assess your English level
Sign the agreement and pay the first installment
Follow your coordinator’s instructions
Still have questions?
We’d be happy to answer them!
Feel free to stop by our office. We’ve taken part in exchange programs ourselves several times, so we can share our personal experiences and impressions, help you choose the right program, and assist with finding temporary summer work in the USA and other countries around the world.
