International Participants
Whether you are a current student or recent graduate pursuing an internship in your field of study, or an experienced professional seeking advanced training in the United States — Pathways supports your J-1 exchange visitor journey from start to finish.
Structured training with cultural exchange
Your J-1 program is built around a formal DS-7002 Training Plan developed with your host organization — outlining your learning objectives, schedule, and cultural exchange activities. This is a training experience, not employment.
Matched to the right host
Where matching services are available, Pathways works with you and your host organization to ensure the training program aligns with your background and learning goals. In some cases, matching is facilitated through an international partner.
Cultural exchange built into your program
Cultural exchange is a core requirement of the J-1 program. Cultural activity components are built into each training plan — pre-arrival orientation and ongoing activities designed to make your U.S. experience professionally and personally meaningful.
Full transparency on every cost
Our fees are published in full before you apply. No hidden charges. We walk every participant through the complete cost picture before any commitment is made.
Alumni community
Participants who complete a Pathways-sponsored program join a growing alumni network of exchange visitors from around the world — a lasting professional connection that extends well beyond your program dates.
Your path to U.S. training.
Whether you are pursuing an internship tied to your studies or advanced professional training in your field, Pathways guides you from application through program completion.
Apply to the program
Submit your application with your academic background or professional experience and training goals. We review your eligibility under the Intern or Trainee designation and confirm your path forward.
Connect with a host organization
Where Pathways matching services are available, we work to connect you with a suitable host organization. In some cases, an international partner assists with this connection. You review the opportunity before anything is finalized.
Your DS-7002 Training Plan is developed
Pathways works with you and your host to develop your formal DS-7002 Training Plan — documenting your learning objectives, schedule, supervision, and cultural exchange activities. We then issue your DS-2019 and guide you through the visa process.
Complete your program
You arrive, train, and engage in cultural exchange activities throughout your program. Pathways supports you from pre-arrival through program completion and connects you with our alumni community.
Intern Program
For students and recent graduates seeking hands-on training in their field of study.
Currently enrolled
Enrolled in a degree- or certificate-granting post-secondary institution outside the U.S.
Or recently graduated
Graduated from a foreign post-secondary institution no more than 12 months before the program start date.
Field of study match
Training must be directly related to your field of study.
English proficiency
Sufficient English proficiency to participate in and benefit from the program.
Trainee Program
For working professionals advancing expertise through structured U.S. training.
Degree plus experience
Holds a degree from a foreign post-secondary institution AND at least 1 year of related work experience outside the U.S.
Or extensive experience
5 or more years of relevant work experience in the occupational field outside the U.S.
Structured Training Plan
Training must follow a DS-7002 Training Plan in a recognized occupational category.
English proficiency
Sufficient English proficiency to participate in and benefit from the program.
Not sure which designation applies? Contact us and we'll help you find the right path.
Contact UsBringing your family.
J-1 exchange visitors may bring eligible dependents to the United States under the J-2 visa classification. J-2 status is available for your spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21.
J-2 dependents may apply to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for employment authorization — allowing them to work in the United States while accompanying a J-1 exchange visitor. Employment authorization is at the discretion of USCIS and is not automatic.
Eligible dependents: Spouse + unmarried children under 21 years of age.
J-2 dependents may apply for work authorization through USCIS separately. Work authorization is not automatic.
Transparent pricing. Published in full.
All participant fees, placement fees, and J-2 dependent costs are published on our Fees page — no hidden charges, no surprises. Review the full cost picture before you apply.
