Work and Travel: A Cultural Exchange Program Under the U.S Government

BY: E+ Europe

09/14/2024

Work and Travel: A Cultural Exchange Program Under the U.S Government

Work and Travel is a cultural exchange program regulated by the U.S. government, designed for university students from around the world to work in the U.S. during their summer vacation. This program allows students to explore different cultures, travel across America, improve their English language skills, and earn money while doing so.

Why Should You Participate in the Work and Travel Program?

Work and Travel is one of the best opportunities that can come into a university student’s life. The benefits it offers are numerous:

Cultural Exposure: You’ll have the chance to experience American culture as well as the cultures of many other nations participating in the program. You can forge lasting friendships and find yourself chatting with people from different corners of the world years later.
English Practice: You’ll have the opportunity to practice and improve your English with native speakers.
Independence and Confidence: By earning your own money in a distant country, you will gain the ability to stand on your own two feet and enhance your self-confidence.
Career Experience: You’ll gain valuable work experience that you can add to your CV, even before starting your professional career.
Personal Growth: You’ll discover your own potential, broaden your perspective, and create unforgettable memories throughout the program.

Who Can Participate in Work and Travel?

To be eligible for the Work and Travel program:

You must be a full-time undergraduate student at a university, whether you are in preparation or any level of undergraduate education.
You should be between 18 and 26 years old.
You can also be a first-year or preparatory student in a thesis-based master’s program.
Students enrolled in an Open University English Teaching program with attendance requirements are eligible.
You need to have a GPA of at least 2.0 on a 4.0 scale to pass the visa stage.

Where Can You Work During Work and Travel?

As a student exchange program limited to the summer season, you can work in various places that require minimal training and do not need a university degree. These include:

Hotels, resort hotels
Fast food chains, restaurants
Amusement and water parks
Positions such as room cleaning, hosting/hostessing, receptionist, busboy, dishwasher, waiter/waitress, bartender, sales associate, lifeguard, cashier, ride operator, and more.

How Is Accommodation Arranged in Work and Travel?

Accommodation may vary based on your employment contract. You can stay in shared housing, lodgings, or motels provided or recommended by your employer.
Some employers may only provide guidance on housing, while others might provide accommodation directly. Rent is usually paid weekly, and the cost of rent varies depending on the region where you are staying.

How Much Does the Work and Travel Program Cost?

The cost of the program varies depending on your application date and agency, but it generally ranges from $3000 to $3250. This cost covers the DS-2019 form needed for working in the U.S., employment and accommodation, program and visa consultancy. Some companies may also include health and luggage insurance in this fee.

Additional costs include:

Visa Fee: $160 (paid before the visa application)
SEVIS Fee: $35 (an additional fee collected by the U.S. government’s Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, paid before the visa application)
Airfare: $600 – $1000 (depends on the date of purchase, destination, and choice of connecting flights)
Pocket Money: At least $600 (needed to cover expenses for the first two weeks until you receive your first paycheck)

To take advantage of early registration opportunities, fill out the form here to be contacted by our affiliated agency. Applications can be made from August, and early registration opportunities usually continue until January, although this may vary between agencies.