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
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When should I apply?
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The programme is open and applications will be accepted until
21st May 2010. However, we would recommend applying early to take advantage of early
application discounts and give yourself plenty of time for your visa application.
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How do I apply?
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Apply online or download an application form.
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How long will it take to be processed?
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You should allow at least 8 weeks for the complete process from submitting your
initial application to having your visa issued, however it can take longer depending
on when you can attend an interview with the US Embassy or if their processing time
increases.
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Do I need a job to apply?
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No, you do not need a job to apply to the programme, however we suggest you pre-arrange
work. You can begin looking for work before you are registered on Work America.
The BUNAC staff in the New York office can help you find a job if necessary.
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Jobs
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How can I find a job?
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The Job Directory lists many employers across America who have hired BUNACers
before and are keen to do so again. It also provides practical advice on working
and living in America.
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Can I wait until I arrive in America before looking for work?
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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 are you going
to begin your job search, what will you do if you do not find work within a week?
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Can I work with friends?
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It depends on the employer. Most Job Directory employers, particular 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.
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How much will I earn?
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It varies according to where you work and what you do, but the average wage is around
$8 per hour.
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Can I find a career related job?
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Yes, and you may find the following advice useful.
- University contacts – your university lecturers, tutors and careers advisers may
have specific contacts in the field you are looking for in America
- Friends/family in America – should be able to provide you with more detailed local
information and specific companies worth applying to
- Speculative applications – a Google search along the lines of ‘law firms in Chicago’
or similar should 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 are willing to do an unpaid internship, or can be flexible
with dates mention this
- If you take an unpaid internship, you can still look for part-time paid work to
support yourself through the visa you get through Work America!
- Be prepared to persevere and don’t give up if you get a few negative responses.
If all else fails you could always apply for some Job Directory jobs –
they will still stand out on your CV!
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Accommodation
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How do I find accommodation?
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Many Job Directory employers offer accommodation with
the job. Alternatively, you can try:
- Local newspapers (many are available online)
- University accommodation
- Accommodation websites such as craigslist.com
- 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.
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How much will it cost?
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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.
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Visas
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How long is my visa valid for?
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Your visa is valid for a maximum of four months between May 1st and October 10th.
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 October
10th. In any case, however, the effective programme dates are those which appear
on your DS-2019. It is not possible to extend this visa.
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I do not have a UK passport. Will this affect my application?
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Possibly. Download the overseas
passport holder information sheet for more information.
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Is there a non-student version of the programme?
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Unfortunately not. You may want to consider one of our other programmes, or check
the US embassy website for details on other visas.
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In America
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What if I have to come home early?
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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.
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How long can I travel for after I finish working?
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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.
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What is…
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IENA?
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IENA (International Exchange of North America) are the US based programme sponsors
who issue your DS-2019 and are ultimately responsible for you in America.
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The DS-2019?
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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. This can be issued only by a US sponsor
like IENA. 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.
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SEVIS?
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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.
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Useful links
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