Summer Work and Travel Direct Placement

"Students of Community College, College and University only"

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Submissions are now Opened for the Summer 2024 season

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Did you have a life-changing experience on the Summer Work Travel program in a prior summer season? Would you like to participate again in Summer 2024?

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NEXXT-step is offering direct sponsorship opportunities through selected sponsors to eligible repeat participants for Summer 2024. Apply directly with the Sponsor and experience our exceptional customer service, fast processing times, and affordable prices.

Space is limited and applications will be accepted on a first come first served basis.

 

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility for Direct Sponsorship

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1. You were previously a participant on a Summer Work Travel program, and you would like to return to the U.S. to participate in Summer 2024. You may choose to submit your own approvable job offer to return to a previous host employer or join the sponsors matching system to be matched with a new host.

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Additionally meet the following requirements:

1. • You are between the ages of 18 and 28.

   • You are enrolled full-time and pursuing studies at an accredited post-secondary, classroom-based, academic institutions physically located outside of the United States and have successfully completed at least one semester, or equivalent, of post-secondary academic study.

   • You are sufficiently proficient in English to successfully interact in an English-speaking environment verified by a mandatory and documented video conference interview.

   • You have the intention to participate in the cultural aspects of the Summer Work Travel program.

   • You must have completed a Summer Work Travel program in a previous summer season

   • You may choose to submit your own approvable job offer to return to a previous host employer or join our matching system to be matched with a new host for 2024

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Step 2: Create Application and Upload Required Supporting Documents

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Create your account in the Sponsor’s Online Application and upload required documents.

1. Complete all fillable sections of the application. Remember that your dates of participation are based on program dates mandated by the U.S. Department of State and can be found on their website.

2. Upload all of the required supporting documents.

   • Passport Copy (must be valid through program dates)

   • Proof of student status from university

Required Documents

Submission Order

Required Document

Acceptable Document Must Include

1 Passport

Valid for at least 6 months after the end date of your program.

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2 Proof of Student Status

A university letter confirming that you are enrolled in and actively pursuing a degree or a full-time course of study; signed with University seal by University Registrar.

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3* Job Offer

A completed Employment Offer or provide intent of joining the Sponsor’s matching system

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4* Previous DS-2019 Form or Proof of Program Letter

Letter from your former J-1 Visa sponsor with your name, dates you participated in the Summer Work Travel program and name of Host Employer. Note: Participants sponsored by Sponsor in a previous season do not need to submit this.

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5 Official University Transcript

University seal, all classes, grades and credits.

*Required after application has been submitted, but before your forms can be issued.

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Step 3: Pay Program Free + Submit Application

1. Submit payment of Sponsors Fee, which includes the sponsor’s program fees, SEVIS, insurance for the duration of your program, and shipping costs for your visa sponsorship forms.

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It will say “Payment Received” in the Payment section of your dashboard within one to two business days of submitting payment.

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If you cancel for any reason you will be refunded the full Sponsor's Fee.

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Step 4: Schedule Your Interview With the Sponsor

1. After your application has been submitted, we will contact you to schedule a screening interview with the sponsor to assess program suitability.

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Once your interview is scheduled, submit your Job Offer information to your sponsors App Dashboard.

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Step 5: Complete Sponsors Online Orientation

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1. Complete the mandatory Sponsor’s Work & Travel USA online orientation which you can access in your sponsor’s Online Application account.

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Step 6: Host Employer Job Vetting + Job Confirmation

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Submit your Proof of Program Letter or Previous DS-2019 form to the sponsor.

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The sponsor will vet your job offer for approval according to program guidelines and regulations: The sponsors Host Employer job vetting guidelines.

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Once your job has been confirmed, you will receive an email from the sponsor on how to finalize your job offer on your Online Application.

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Step 7: Receive Your Forms

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Confirm your mailing address.

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The Sponsor will process, print and ship your forms via UPS to your local address. We will send you an email with your UPS tracking number once your acceptance packet has been shipped.

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Step 8: Apply for your Visa & Schedule Your Visa Appointment at the Embassy/Consulate

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You will receive an email with details on how to apply for your J-1 Visa.

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Complete your DS-160 form and schedule your visa appointment at the embassy or consulate on the embassy website. Note: it is not necessary to wait for your acceptance packet to arrive to start this process. Be sure to check for visa appointment and processing wait times.

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Collect and review all additional documents required by the embassy or consulate where you will apply.

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Step 9: Attend Your Visa Interview & Prepare for Departure

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Attend your visa interview and receive your visa.

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Review your participant handbook, insurance information, and other pre-departure materials provided in the acceptance packet.

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Finalize your travel arrangements. Remember to enter your visa interview date, visa result, and flight information in your online application.

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Depart for the USA! 

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Additionally

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The Summer Work and Travel (SWT) program allows college students from around the world to work in the United States during their summer vacation. The goal is to provide cultural exchange experiences while helping students earn money and improve their English language skills. Here are some common job positions offered to J-1 visa holders under this program:

1. Hospitality Jobs

Types of Positions:

• Hotel Front Desk Clerk: Assisting guests with check-ins and check-outs, managing reservations, and providing information about hotel amenities and local attractions.

• Housekeeper: Cleaning and maintaining guest rooms and common areas, ensuring a high standard of hygiene and cleanliness.

• Bellhop/Porter: Helping guests with their luggage, providing information and directions, and assisting with various guest services.

Skills Needed:

• Customer service and communication skills.

• Attention to detail and organizational abilities.

• Friendly and approachable demeanor.

2. Food Service Jobs

Types of Positions:

• Waitstaff/Server: Taking orders, serving food and beverages, and ensuring a pleasant dining experience for customers.

• Busser: Clearing tables, setting up dining areas, and assisting waitstaff with maintaining a clean and organized dining environment.

• Barista: Preparing and serving coffee and other beverages, handling cash transactions, and maintaining cleanliness in the café.

Skills Needed:

• Good communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

• Customer service orientation and teamwork.

3. Retail Jobs

Types of Positions:

• Sales Associate: Assisting customers with purchases, restocking shelves, and handling cash and credit card transactions.

• Cashier: Operating cash registers, providing change, and ensuring accurate transactions.

• Stock Clerk: Receiving and unpacking merchandise, organizing stockrooms, and maintaining inventory.

Skills Needed:

• Strong customer service and communication skills.

• Basic math skills for handling transactions.

• Organizational and multitasking abilities.

4. Amusement and Theme Park Jobs

Types of Positions:

• Ride Operator: Operating amusement rides, ensuring the safety of guests, and providing instructions and assistance.

• Game Attendant: Managing game booths, encouraging guests to participate, and awarding prizes.

• Food and Beverage Attendant: Preparing and serving food, handling transactions, and maintaining cleanliness.

Skills Needed:

• Good communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to handle large crowds and ensure safety.

• Enthusiasm and a friendly attitude.

5. Outdoor and Resort Jobs

Types of Positions:

• Lifeguard: Monitoring swimming areas, ensuring the safety of swimmers, and responding to emergencies.

• Activity Coordinator: Organizing and leading recreational activities, such as sports, games, and tours.

• Groundskeeper: Maintaining the resort’s landscape, including gardening, mowing lawns, and ensuring the cleanliness of outdoor areas.

Skills Needed:

• Physical fitness and stamina.

• Strong swimming skills and lifeguard certification (for lifeguards).

• Organizational and leadership abilities (for activity coordinators).

6. Fast Food Jobs

Types of Positions:

• Cook/Food Prep: Preparing food items, following recipes, and maintaining a clean cooking environment.

• Counter Staff: Taking orders, serving food and drinks, and handling payments.

• Drive-Thru Attendant: Managing orders and transactions at the drive-thru window, ensuring fast and accurate service.

Skills Needed:

• Ability to work quickly and efficiently.

• Good customer service and communication skills.

• Attention to cleanliness and food safety standards.

7. Housekeeping and Maintenance Jobs

Types of Positions:

• Janitor/Custodian: Cleaning and maintaining buildings, including offices, schools, and public spaces.

• General Maintenance Worker: Performing basic repairs, painting, and ensuring facilities are in good working condition.

• Laundry Attendant: Washing, drying, and folding linens and uniforms, ensuring cleanliness and organization.

Skills Needed:

• Attention to detail and cleanliness.

• Basic handyman skills for maintenance roles.

• Ability to work independently and efficiently.

8. Grocery Store Jobs

Types of Positions:

• Stocker: Restocking shelves, organizing displays, and ensuring products are properly labeled.

• Cashier: Operating the cash register, handling transactions, and providing customer service.

• Deli/Bakery Assistant: Preparing food items, serving customers, and maintaining cleanliness in the deli or bakery section.

Skills Needed:

• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.

• Good customer service and communication skills.

• Basic math skills for handling transactions.

These positions not only provide J-1 visa holders with valuable work experience but also offer opportunities to interact with Americans, learn about U.S. culture, and improve their English language proficiency.

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