The J-1 application process: what happens, step by step

The J-1 application process follows the same path whichever program you choose: a free initial consultation, choosing your program and enrolling, the sponsor application and placement, your DS-2019 and visa preparation, the visa interview and, finally, orientation and your flight. From Summer Work and Travel to Research Scholar, the order of the steps never changes; what changes is who welcomes you in America.

The programs run through sponsor organizations designated by the U.S. Department of State. Your sponsor approves your application and issues your DS-2019; we prepare your file here in Türkiye and stay by your side at every step. Want to see all five programs side by side? Visit our U.S. exchange programs page.

Placement is the step where you're matched with the people who will host you in America. Your DS-2019 can't be issued until this step is complete, so it's the heart of your timeline.

• Summer Work and Travel: You meet employers in video interviews or at job fairs and receive your job offer. Participants from Türkiye need a job offer before they apply for the visa. Details: Work and Travel application process.
• Intern / Trainee: You're matched with a host company in your field and prepare your DS-7002 Training Plan, which sets out your internship goals. Details: internship application and fees.
• Camp and Travel: Your profile is shared with camps; you talk with a camp director and accept your camp offer. Details: Camp and Travel application.
• J-1 High School Exchange: The sponsor matches the student with a volunteer host family and a high school, and the school's written acceptance is obtained. Details: high school exchange application.
• Research Scholar: You receive an invitation from a host university or research institution, which in most cases issues the DS-2019 itself. Details: Research Scholar requirements and application.

The DS-2019 is the Certificate of Eligibility your sponsor issues; it shows your program category, your program dates and your SEVIS ID. Three steps follow: paying the SEVIS I-901 fee online ($35 for Work and Travel and Camp, $220 for the other programs), completing the DS-160 form, and paying the visa application fee ($185) to book your appointment. Amounts are as of September 2026 and may change. You'll find every detail in our J-1 visa guide.

At the interview, the consular officer usually asks about your program, your ties to Türkiye and how you're covering your costs. The visa decision rests with the consulate; our job is to get you ready for the day with practice sessions. For sample questions, read our article on J-1 visa interview questions and tips.

Your application doesn't end with the flight. At the pre-departure orientation, we talk through travel day, your first-week plan and who to contact if you ever need help.

• In America: Your sponsor stays in touch throughout the program and offers an emergency support line. We're only a message away too, and we make it easier to reach your sponsor whenever you need to.
• When the program ends: You have 30 days to depart the U.S., and many participants use this time to travel.
• Back home: We'll talk about how to showcase the experience on your CV and, if you like, plan your next J-1 step together.