FAQ
Can I travel after my internship?
Yes, with your visa you can travel for up to 1 month before or after your internship in America. Not all companies give holidays, therefore it is wise to use the month after or before your internship for holidays/tours.
Are there more vacancies than what is listed on the website?
Yes! Stage-USA has many vacancies that are not listed on the website. We also have many new possibilities in development. To find out more information, fill out an application form and we can schedule an interview!
Are all internships paid?
Stage-USA provides many paid internships, however, internships shorter than 4 months are generally unpaid. On average you earn $250 to $850 per month with an internship or graduation assignment. Traineeships are generally 12-18 months and here you can expect minimum hourly wage, which can differ per state you are placed in.
When should I register?
We recommend that you start with the process 4-6 months before the start of your program. You can register up to 1 month before the start of your program as we also accept last minute applications, but with special regulations. If you apply 2 months (or less) before the start of your program then your deposit will be non-refundable.
How long on average does it take to be placed at a company?
In some cases it may be very quick. After you apply you will have an intake interview, after this you will have to pay your deposit and then once your resume and motivation letter have been approved by Stage-USA, the mediation starts. Overall the process tends to take around 2 months from when your documents have been approved. Last minute placements can often be done within 1 month.
Is there a minimum/maximum age for the programs of Stage-USA?
The minimum age to take part in any of the Stage-USA programs is 18 years old. There is no maximum age for the internship and traineeship programs. The maximum age to take part in the au pair program is 26 years. If you are 17 but will turn 18 before your planned start date then you are still eligible.
I have already found an internship by myself, does offer Stage-USA also additional services for me?
Yes, if you have already found an internship, you can still use our J-1 visa service. We also offer housing mediation.
Does Stage-USA also assist with housing?
Yes, Stage-USA helps to find suitable accommodation. You will be responsible for the final housing itself though. In some cities, Stage-USA has student houses.
Can I get a guarantee that Stage-USA will find a suitable placement?
At Stage-USA we are committed to place you in a suitable company. Unfortunately we cannot give any guarantees. If we could not find you a suitable placement five weeks before the start of your internship we pay back a part of the deposit. To find out more you can view our terms & conditions.
Can I apply for a placement from your list of vacancies?
Yes you can, however this is only a selection of the approximately 400 positions we have available. We will have an intake interview with you in order to perfectly match you to one of our available positions.
Can I choose the location of my placement?
Yes, you can name a preferred location for your placement during the intake interview with us. However, this will cost an additional €350.
Can I visit you in person and talk about my options?
We will have contact via Zoom which allows you to get to know us, but we also do offer the option of having intake interviews at our office.
What sort of tasks and responsibilities can I expect from an internship/traineeship? What is the difference?
Traineeships have a higher level of responsibility and are generally longer, they range from 6 to 18 months. Additionally, trainees tend to earn more than interns. Internships are generally between 3 and 6 months, the maximum being of 12 months, interns have less responsibility and a lower salary. However, the education process for both categories is more or less the same. Traineeship and internship programs are available for 2 months or more.
Do I also need a bank account in the US?
Yes, as your salary will need to be paid into an American bank account. This is something you will have to take care of after your arrival in the U.S.
Is an English language test obligatory?
No. However, we may do an English interview with you to test your level of English before we start the placement process.
Is it possible for my supervisor from school to be in contact with the placement company?
We prefer to lead the contact with the host company to be Stage-USA, but your supervisor can contact us any time.
Which advantages are there for being placed by Stage-USA over finding my own placement?
The first advantage is that we take care of the whole placement process and support you every step of the way. We offer guidance and advice regarding interviews, preparing documents, finding a placement which suits you, your consulate appointment, and also with finding housing and booking flights. We are also available to answer questions and support you via our 24 hour help desk throughout the placement process and for the duration of your internship. The companies we offer placements at are checked by us to make sure that the positions they offer are suitable and of high quality. Another key advantage is that your chances of gaining a paid placement are much higher if you use our service.
