Internship/Trainee Program USA
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The Intern Program is a designated category within the U.S. Department of State's Exchange Visitor Program. It offers participants the opportunity to gain practical work experience in their professional field through placements at U.S. host organizations, while simultaneously immersing themselves in American culture and bridging the gap between academic theory and real-world application.

The program enforces rigorous selection criteria for participating U.S. organizations. These entities must demonstrate structured training, mentorship, and management plans designed to foster a supportive and professionally developmental environment for participants. Placements are primarily located in vibrant and economically thriving cities and regions such as New York, Florida, and California. By working within these esteemed professional settings, participants are positioned to achieve significant personal and professional growth, empowered by high-quality practical experience and enhanced career competencies.


Program Duration:Participants may begin their program at any time throughout the year. The maximum program duration is one year.

Participation Requirements

Enrolled Full-Time Student Status


Applicants must be full-time students at an institution of higher education who are at least 18 years of age. This includes students from undergraduate programs, and postgraduate programs. In accordance with U.S. Department of State regulations, all applicants must maintain their student enrollment and must not have yet received their degree certificate at the time of the program.

Proficient English Communication Skills


Participants must possess sufficient English language proficiency, as verified through an English-language interview. This interview assesses and ensures that the student's language ability meets the requirements for working and living independently in the United States throughout the summer.

Strong Work Ethic and Sense of Responsibility


Participants will work and live alongside peers from the United States and around the world. We expect students to demonstrate a positive attitude, diligence, and a responsible approach, thereby presenting a positive image of Chinese university students.

Program Process

1. Pre-Departure Phase

1.Program Inquiry & Registration

2.Oral Interview

3.Agreement Signing / Fee Payment

4.Submission of Application Materials

5.Position Matching / Employer Interview

6.Offer Confirmation/Issuance of DS-7002 Form (IPP)

7.J-1 Visa Guidance / Appointment Scheduling

8.Visa Interview at Nearest U.S. Consulate or Embassy

9.Pre-Departure Orientation / Flight Booking

Prior to departure, the host employer must complete a detailed Internship Placement Plan (IPP), ensuring the program is tailored to the intern's requirements. Throughout the internship, participants will be guided by experienced mentors and receive comprehensive skills training and practical opportunities.

2. In-Program Phase

1.Immediate SEVIS registration upon U.S. arrival

2.Obtain Social Security Number (SSN) for legal employment and tax purposes

3.Evaluation schedule:

Programs exceeding 6 months: Mid-term and Final evaluations;Programs of 6 months or less: Final evaluation upon completion

4.Maintain proactive communication with both employer and program advisor regarding any matters requiring assistance.

3. Post-Program Phase

1.Return to home country promptly upon program completion

2.Receive certified internship certificate jointly authenticated by program sponsor, U.S. Department of State-designated foundation, and host employer.

Project Comparison
Comparison CriteriaIntern ProgramT‍rainee Program
EligibilityCurrent university student;Or graduate within 1 year of graduationAcademic deqree/professional certificate+ 2 years relevant experience;Or 5 vears professional experience(without degree)
Maximum Duration12 months18 months
Introduction to Internship Positions in American Hotels

Positions for professional internships in the U.S. are typically rotational, where interns rotate within various departments of a hotel. The types of positions include, but are not limited to: Food & Beverage, Front Desk, Guest Service, Culinary, and more.

  • Hospitality Management
    Hospitality Management
  • F&B(Food & Beverage)/Culinary(Chef and Cooking Positions)
    F&B(Food & Beverage)/Culinary(Chef and Cooking Positions)
  • Server/Server assistant
    Server/Server assistant
  • Sommelier/Barista
    Sommelier/Barista
  • Banquet
    Banquet
  • Front Office Department/Front Desk
    Front Office Department/Front Desk
Frequently Asked Questions
01. Is an intern position equivalent to a regular, full-time position within the company?
No. An intern position is fundamentally distinct from a regular company role. Its essence is on-the-job training. The primary change is one of setting—from an academic institution to a corporate environment—and the focus of learning shifts from theoretical knowledge to practical work experience.

02. Can I find my own internship in the U.S. and then have your organization handle the necessary procedures?

Yes. Internship positions are highly sought after and demand often exceeds supply; therefore, we encourage participants to seek out their preferred opportunities independently. Furthermore, the program fee is reduced for participants who secure their own placement.

Please note: The prospective U.S. employer must also have an existing partnership with our cooperating American sponsor foundation.


03. Will the employer provide airport pickup upon arrival in the United States?
Participants will exchange contact information with their employer prior to departure. Arrangements regarding airport pickup should be discussed directly with the employer at that time.