FAQs - the questions answered here cover a wide range of topics, however if you have any queries not addressed below we encourage you to contact us.

Applying

When should I apply?
Applications for Work America 2012 will be accepted until 1st May 2012. However we would recommend booking early so that you can space out payments and give yourself plenty of time for your visa application.
How do I apply?
Simply book your place online today and start applying for jobs through the online job zone.
How long will it take to be processed?
You should allow at least 8 weeks for the complete process from submitting your initial application to having your visa issued, but it can take longer depending on when you can attend an interview with the US Embassy or if their processing time increases.
Do I need a job to apply?
No, you do not need a job to apply to the programme, however we strongly suggest you pre-arrange work. You can begin looking for work before you are registered on Work America.

If travelling to America after 8th July, you must have a job pre-arranged as jobs can be very difficult to find on arrival at this time.

Jobs

How can I find a job?
The Job Zone lists employers across America who have hired BUNACers in previous summers and are keen to do so again. It also provides practical advice on working and living in America. You are not restricted to these jobs, you can find your own job if you prefer.
Can I wait until I arrive in America before looking for work?
Yes but we would advise you to do some research beforehand. Consider where you want to live in America, what type of job you are going to look for, how you are going to begin your job search and how you will support yourself if you do not find work within a week.
Can I work with friends?
Most Job Directory employers, particularly those looking to hire lots of participants, will be willing to hire friends together. Just be prepared to be flexible and persevere and mention if you are willing to do different jobs within the same company.
How much will I earn?
It varies according to where you work and what you do, but the average wage is around $8 per hour. Most jobs will include accommodation with other BUNAC members, making it even easier to save money for travels! You must be paid, you cannot do unpaid work/training or volunteering.
Can I find a career related job?
Yes, and you may find the following advice useful:
  • University contacts – your university lecturers, tutors and careers advisors may have specific contacts in the field you are looking for in America
  • Friends/family in America – may be able to provide you with more detailed local information and specific companies that you can apply to
  • Speculative applications – a Google search along the lines of ‘law firms in Chicago’ or similar will yield a considerable number of results. It’s easy to prepare a resume and covering letter, which you could send to dozens of companies
  • Internship Directories – these feature companies who have standard internship programmes and take on a set number of trainees each year. Try Internships for Dummies, Peterson’s Internships, or the Internships Bible. All should be available in your careers library or public library
  • Highlight any relevant experience and selling points in your resume and covering letter – for example if you can be flexible with dates, mention this to the employer
  • Be prepared to persevere and don’t give up if you get a few negative responses. Remember that you can still apply for Job Zone positions – any experience of working abroad always looks impressive on your CV.

Accommodation

How do I find accommodation?
Many Job Zone employers offer accommodation with the job and our New York office is also on-hand to help you with your accommodation search. Alternatively, you can try:
  • Local newspapers (many are available online)
  • University accommodation
  • Accommodation websites such as craigslist.org
  • Ask your employer for advice
If you do not pre-arrange accommodation we’d suggest booking into a hostel or motel for the first few nights when you arrive.
How much will it cost?
It varies, participants renting accommodation from an employer can expect to pay somewhere between $50 - $100 per week, whilst those renting their own apartment can expect to pay more.

Visas

How long is my visa valid for?
Your visa is valid for a maximum of four months between June 1st and September 30th. So if, for example, you entered the US on June 1st, your visa would expire on September 30th. If you enter the US on or after June 10th, your visa would expire on September 30th. In any case, however, the effective programme dates are those which appear on your DS-2019. It is not possible to extend this visa.
I do not have a UK passport. Will this affect my application?
Possibly. Download the overseas passport holder information sheet for more information.
Is there a non-student version of the programme?
Unfortunately not. You may want to consider one of our other programmes, or check the US embassy website for details on other visas.

Not a student? Check out BUNAC's non-student programme options.

In America

What if I have to come home early?
Call the BUNAC New York office for advice. If you took the BUNAC Travel Package they will be able to discuss how you would transfer your flight date.
How long can I travel for after I finish working?
During the 4 month validity period of your visa, you can work and travel as much as you wish. Once your visa expires, you have an additional 30 days ‘grace period’ during which you may travel but not work.

What is…

The DS-2019?
This is your official certificate of eligibility to apply for a J-1 visa. Everybody needs a DS-2019 to apply for a J-1 visa. Once your J-1 visa is granted, this will be stamped inside your passport but you must keep your DS-2019 with your passport at all times. One is not valid without the other.
SEVIS?
SEVIS is a state department system which tracks holders of J-1 visas while they are in America. You MUST validate your record upon arrival in America and keep it updated if you change jobs or move in to new accommodation. This can be done easily by logging onto a website and updating your details here. Full details on validating your SEVIS record will be given once you are registered on Work America.

Useful links

Handy websites Finding a place to live
coolworks.com roommates.com
summerjobs.com craigslist.com
resortjobs.com subletsearch.com
aboutjobs.com subletsearch.com
internjobs.com subleaseplace.com
j1jobs.com campusrent.com
monster.com rent.net
hotjobs.com hostelworld.com
jobmonkey.com hiusa.com
duderanches.com hiusa.com