What is required of me once I am in the US?

The position you find once you have arrived in the US must be related to your field of study.

Your US Employer will be required to complete a Training Plan Form called the DS-7002.

This form must be submitted to CIEE, your US Sponsoring organisation, for vetting and approval before you will be granted authorisation to commence your work placement.

As with all US work visas, you will also be required to update SEVIS (the Student Exchange Visitor Information System) with your permanent address in the US and confirmation of commencement of job search, within 10 days of arrival. You may register via www.mysevis.com - Please note that failure to register in SEVIS can lead to revocation of your visa and an inability to travel to the US ever again!

If you do not already have a social security number you should apply for one at your local Social Security Administration office as soon as possible.

If you intend to travel outside of the US you will need to have your DS-2019 signed by a responsible officer at CIEE in Portland, Maine. You must do this whether you're going to Canada/Mexico for a weekend or returning home for the holidays. Make sure to plan ahead!

In summary, applying and obtaining a place on the programme is very straight forward. However you need to become familiar with the compliance end. Your sponsor CIEE are available to answer any questions you may have. It is crucial that you comply with all the regulations so that you do not jeopardize your current and future status and opportunities to work and travel in the US.