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Discover Life-Changing Opportunities with CETUSA’s BridgeUSA J-1 Exchange Visitor Programs

Embark on a journey of cultural immersion and professional growth with CETUSA’s range of J-1 exchange programs. Explore the world, gain valuable skills, and forge lifelong connections.

The J-1 high school program places international students in host families and US high schools across the country for an academic year or semester program.

High school exchange program, experience the world, discover yourself. embark on the greatest adventure of your life and become an international high school exchange student., high school study abroad program, training and internship programs provide international participants with opportunities for professional development, insight into american know-how and a greater understanding of american culture., training & internship programs, become an intern in the us or provide an internship opportunity within a program design by us and mexican governments., u.s./mexico internship program, refer a host family.

Help us connect more families with enriching experiences and join us in creating unforgettable J-1 programs for students from around the world. Refer a family to be a part of our global community now!

Fostering Global Engagement and Understanding Through Cultural Exchange

Council for Educational Travel, USA (CETUSA) is a not-for-profit international student exchange organization coordinating exchange experiences for high school students, university students and young professionals.

CETUSA is a US Department of State Exchange Visitor (J-1 visa) sponsor organization.

• Host an Exchange Student

CETUSA is currently looking for families who wish to expand their worldview, broaden their horizons, and take the step to a life-changing experience.

Exchange Visitors Hosted

Countries represented, years of service, more than 29 years of industry expertise.

With over 29 years of dedicated service in J-1 exchange programs, CETUSA has facilitated transformative experiences for participants worldwide. Our commitment to excellence and cultural exchange ensures that every program is meticulously designed to foster meaningful connections and personal growth.

View Available Intern & Trainee Positions

Unlock your potential and enrich your professional experience with our international intern/trainee program. View available positions to further your cross-cultural understanding and professional development.

CETUSA Blog

News, Experiences & Stories

Embracing Diversity and Talent: The Impact of Hosting CETUSA J-1 Trainees and Interns

Advice for navigating your cetusa j-1 intern/trainee program experience in the u.s., preparing for your j-1 intern/trainee program.

Easter Around the World: A Celebration to Share and Learn About Different Customs with Your Exchange Visitor.

Any questions get in touch.

We’re here to help! Whether you have questions about our programs, need assistance with your application, or want to explore partnership opportunities, don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly team.

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The world is our classroom. Join us.

What You Can Do

Since 1947, nonprofit study abroad and intercultural exchange organization CIEE has been bringing the world together, advancing peace by building bridges of mutual understanding between different people, different countries, and different cultures.

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Access the world.

High school student to lifelong learner, U.S. citizen to international traveler: No matter who you are, we have a program that’s right for you in a location that inspires.

Discover a new culture. Learn new skills. Gain new perspectives. The world is waiting.

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CIEE Leadership in Language Learning

We’re adding a fifth week to March Madness! (Yes, we agree, that’s pure madness!) So far, we've announced: CIEE Semester In programs have been expanded to 33 international cities! CIEE... keep reading

BridgeUSA Alum Authors Book to Raise Awareness for Neurodivergent Children

Andrea Villasmil is a multifaceted, young entrepreneur from Ecuador who participated in CIEE’s Work & Travel USA (WAT) program as part of BridgeUSA in 2015. Then a 21-year-old Clinical Psychology... keep reading

CIEE Is Bringing the World to Latin America - New Programs, Scholarships, and More!

Welcome to week four of CIEE March Madness 2024! Previously, we announced: CIEE Semester In expanded to 33 international cities! CIEE Summer Global Internships expanded to 31 international cities! CIEE... keep reading

CIEE Expands Study Abroad Portfolio in Asia-Pacific

Welcome to week three of CIEE March Madness 2024! Previously, we announced: CIEE Semester In study abroad programs expanded to 33 international cities! CIEE Summer Global Internships expanded to 31... keep reading

CIEE Summer Global Internships Now in 31 Exciting International Cities!

Welcome to week two of CIEE March Madness 2024! Last week we shared 19 new locations for our CIEE Semester In study abroad program model, bringing the total CIEE Semester... keep reading

CIEE Semester In Model to be Expanded to 33 International Cities

It’s time for March Madness 2024! Last March, we shared with you weekly updates on CIEE’s expanded program portfolios in Spain, Italy, France and England, announcing seven new CIEE Centers... keep reading

CIEE and AAIDN Announce the 2024 Douglass-O'Connell Global Interns

The Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) and the African American Irish Diaspora Network (AAIDN) are pleased to announce the 2024 Douglass-O’Connell Global Interns, 15 high-achieving students who will participate... keep reading

More Scholarships to Get You There

CIEE offers more scholarships, grants, and other funding opportunities than any other provider to help make your exchange experience a reality.

in scholarships annually

recipients each year

Peace of Mind When You’re Away

Our experts are with you every step of the way – from the time you apply to your return trip home – to ensure you stay safe and get the most out of your experience.

24/7 Support

To answer questions & help in an emergency call 1-800-40-STUDY.

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To help you navigate your new surroundings.

Travel Protection Coverage

To cover unexpected medical expenses, lost luggage & more.

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Summer Work Travel

College and University students enrolled full time and pursuing studies at post-secondary accredited academic institutions located outside the United States come to the United States to share their culture and ideas with people of the United States through temporary work and travel opportunities.

Participants

Summer work travel students must be:.

• Sufficiently proficient in English to successfully interact in an English speaking environment;
• Post-secondary school students enrolled in and actively pursuing a degree or other full-time course of study at an accredited classroom based, post-secondary educational institution outside the United States;
• Have successfully completed at least one semester or equivalent of post-secondary academic study; and
• Pre-placed in a job prior to entry unless from a visa waiver country.

The Summer Work Travel program provides foreign students with an opportunity to live and work in the United States during their summer vacation from college or university to experience and to be exposed to the people and way of life in the United States.

More information

Summer work travel 2024 season program dates by country, summer work travel community support groups.

Find SWT community support groups near you

Map of Summer Work Travel Participants

View the number and locations of Summer Work Travel participants across the U.S.

Readmittance, Program Length, and Returning Home

• Readmittance: Participants can be admitted to the program more than once;
• Program Length: The maximum length of the program is four months; and
• Returning Home: Students must return to their home country prior to the start date of their university or college.

Program Exclusions

Sponsors must not place participants:

• In positions that could bring notoriety or disrepute to the Exchange Visitor Program;
• In sales positions that require participants to purchase inventory that they must sell in order to support themselves;
• In domestic help positions in private homes (e.g., child care, elder care, gardener, chauffeur);
• As pedicab or rolling chair drivers or operators;
• As operators or drivers of vehicles or vessels for which drivers’ licenses are required regardless of whether they carry passengers or not;
• In positions related to clinical care that involves patient contact;
• In any position in the adult entertainment industry (including, but not limited to jobs with escort services, adult book/video stores, and strip clubs);
• In positions requiring work hours that fall predominantly between 10:00 pm and 6:00 am;
• In positions declared hazardous to youth by the Secretary of Labor at Subpart E of 29 CFR part 570;
• In positions that require sustained physical contact with other people and/or adherence to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Universal Blood and Body Fluid Precautions guidelines (e.g., body piercing, tattooing, massage, manicure);
• In positions that are substantially commission-based and thus do not guarantee that participants will be paid minimum wage in accordance with federal and state standards;
• In positions involved in gaming and gambling that include direct participation in wagering and/or betting;
• In positions in chemical pest control, warehousing, catalogue/online order distribution centers;
• In positions with traveling fairs or itinerant concessionaires;
• In jobs that do not allow participants to work alongside U.S. citizens and interact regularly with U.S. citizens and to experience U.S. culture during the workday portion of their Summer Work Travel programs;
• With employers that fill non-seasonal or non-temporary job openings with exchange visitors with staggered vacation schedules;
• In positions that require licensing;
• In positions for which there is another specific J visa category (e.g., Camp Counselor, Trainee, Intern);
• Participants must be employees of and paid by the staffing agencies
• Staffing agencies must provide full-time, primary, on-site supervision of the participants
• Staffing agencies must effectively control the work sites, e.g., have hands-on management responsibility for the participants
• After November 1, 2012, in positions in the North American Industry Classification System’s (NAICS) Goods-Producing Industries occupational categories industry sectors 11, 21, 23, 31-33 numbers (set forth at http://www.bls.gov/iag/tgs/iag_index_naics.htm ).

Sponsors must also:

• Use extra caution when placing students in positions at employers in lines of business that are frequently associated with trafficking persons (e.g., modeling agencies, housekeeping, janitorial services);
• Consider the availability of suitable, affordable housing (e.g., that meets local codes and ordinances) and reliable, affordable, and convenient transportation to and from work when making job placements;
• Actively and immediately assist participants with arranging appropriate housing and transportation, if employers do not provide or arrange housing and/or transportation, or if participants decline employer-provided housing or transportation;
• The number of job placements available with host employers
• That host employers will not displace domestic U.S. workers at worksites where they will place program participants
• That host employers have not experienced layoffs in the past 120 days and do not have workers on lockout or on strike

Sponsors may place participants only in jobs that:

• Are seasonal or temporary;
• Provide opportunities for regular communication and interaction with U.S. citizens and allow participants to experience U.S. culture.

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Summer Work Travel Resources

Events SWT Participant Map Community Support Groups Strengthening and Reforming the SWT Program SWT Monitoring Report

Program Sponsors

Sponsors are required to:.

• A copy of the Department of State Summer Work Travel Program Brochure;
• The Department of State’s toll-free emergency hotline telephone number;
• The sponsor’s 24/7 immediate contact telephone number;
• Information advising participants of their obligation to notify their sponsor when they arrive in the United States and to provide information of any change in jobs or residence; and
• Information concerning any contractual obligations related to participants’ acceptance of paid employment in the United States, if pre-arranged.
• Ensure that participants entering the United States without prearranged employment have sufficient financial resources to support themselves during their search for employment;
• Provide such participants with information on how to seek employment and secure lodging in the United States before they depart their home countries; and
• Provide participants with a job directory that includes at least as many job listings as the number of participants in their program who are entering the United States without prearranged employment.
• Sponsors must undertake reasonable efforts to secure suitable employment for participants unable to find jobs on their own after one week;
• Sponsors must inform program participants of Federal Minimum Wage requirements and ensure that, at a minimum, participants are compensated at the prevailing local wage, which must meet the higher of either the applicable state or the Federal minimum wage requirement, including payment for overtime in accordance with state-specific employment; and
• Sponsors must maintain, at a minimum, a monthly schedule of personal contact with the program participants (in-person, by telephone or via-electronic mail), document such contact, and ensure that issues affecting the health, safety and welfare of participants are addressed immediately.

2024 Program Date Chart

2024 Program Date Chart (PDF)

• Summer Work Travel 2024 Season Program Dates by Country (PDF)

Host employers are required to:

• Provide participants the number of hours of paid employment per week as identified on the job offer and agreed to when the sponsor vetted the jobs;
• Pay those participants eligible for overtime worked in accordance with applicable state or federal law;
• Notify sponsors promptly when participants arrive at the work site and begins their programs; when there are any changes or deviations in the job placements during the participants’ programs; when participants are not meeting the requirements of job placements; or when participants leave their position ahead of their planned departure; and
• Contact sponsors immediately in the event of any emergency involving participants or any situation that impacts the health, safety or welfare of participants.

“As an employer of international kids, keep your door open and be proactive in solving their issues.” 

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The Summer Work Travel (SWT) Program, a category of the U.S. Department of State’s BridgeUSA , brings foreign post-secondary (college or university) students to the United States to work and travel for a maximum of four months during their summer vacations. Summer Work Travel, like all exchange programs, is intended to provide participants with broad exposure to U.S. culture and society, and to foster greater appreciation among Americans of the participants’ home countries. Specifically, Summer Work Travel is designed to allow participants to become directly involved in the daily life of the people of the United States through travel and temporary work.

See more information on the Summer Work Travel Program on the Department of State website.

The following Alliance member organizations sponsor summer work/travel programs:

• Alliance Abroad Group
• American Journey Cultural Exchange (AJ1)
• American Work Adventures
• AIFS (American Institute for Foreign Study)
• Cultural Exchange Network (CENET)
• Cultural Homestay International (CHI)
• Greenheart International
• Global Educational Concepts (GEC)
• InterExchange Work & Travel USA
• International Culture & Career Exchange (ICCE)
• International Cultural Exchange Organization (ICEO)
• International Exchange of North America (IENA)
• Intrax Cultural Exchange
• Janus International Hospitality Student Exchange
• LifeTRAVELED
• Spirit Cultural Exchange
• United Work and Travel, a division of APEI

A list of all inbound Summer Work Travel sponsors designated by the Department of State can be found on the Department’s website .

CULTURAL HOMESTAY INTERNATIONAL​

We believe in the value and potential of cultural exchange.

Cultural Homestay International (CHI) has excelled at promoting international understanding and goodwill through people-to-people exchanges since 1980. CHI is designated by the United States Department of State as a J-1 visa sponsor , and is a proud member of the Council on Standards for International Educational Travel (CSIET), World Youth Student Educational Travel Confederation (WYSE Travel Confederation), WYSE Work Abroad , International Au Pair Association (IAPA) and The Alliance for International Educational & Cultural Exchange .

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Amazing opportunities for university students, young professionals and American businesses. 

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We know what matters most to your family. CHI Au Pair is known by its loving and affordable live-in childcare.

Changing millions of lives worldwide since 1980

CHI is a non-profit educational organization  founded in 1980 by Tom and Lilka Areton. CHI’s Mission is to promote international understanding and goodwill through people-to-people exchanges. We believe that the best way to build bridges of friendship and trust among people is to experience directly each other’s customs, languages and values. To live, study or work together leads to a transformational experience of acceptance and genuine affection.

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HAPPY 40th BIRTHDAY to CULTURAL HOMESTAY INTERNATIONAL

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“the most fulfilling and memorable experience of a lifetime”.

CHI turned the Big 40 in 2020! In honor of this occasion, we are excited to announce an inspiring initiative: 40 Acts of Kindness Around the World.

We are inviting our staff, program participants, host families/companies, loyal supporters and you to demonstrate that good deeds and acts of kindness are the hallmark of CHI, and the most motivational way to make positive change.

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We want to hear your story!

CHI has been changing lives for 40 years. We love to hear and to share some of those success stories.

Submit yours and encourage others to enjoy the power of cultural exchange.

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1-415-459-5397 1-800-432-4643 1-888-CHI-HOST

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Teach in the United States for the 2024-25 School Year!

J-1 visa programs in the united states, do you dream about living and working in the united states while making new american friends experience american culture first-hand through spirit’s j-1 visa exchange programs in the usa..

Intern or Train in the USA

International students and young professionals intern and train with US businesses. You can gain valuable professional development through hands-on training.

Teach in the USA

International teachers teach in accredited primary or secondary U.S. schools for 1-3 years.  Learn how you can teach American students STEM, Foreign Language, Special Education and more.

Work & Travel in the USA

International university students participate in a J-1 Work & Travel Program in the USA for 2-4 months. Experience American culture while working in a seasonal hospitality position in the USA.

Get Started on Your Adventure in the USA

Welcome the world to your workplace.

Spirit offers American employers and accredited K-12 schools the opportunity to host international students, young professionals and teachers through a variety of program options.

Host an Intern or Trainee

Add an international perspective to your office with J-1 Interns and Trainees from around the world.  Whether you are a large engineering firm or a small luxury resort, we have the right candidates for you.

Host an Exchange Teacher

Spirit’s J-1 Visa Teacher Program matches qualified international teachers and K-12 schools in the USA for 1- 3 year programs teaching foreign language, STEM, Special Education and more.

Host Work & Travel

Hire international university students for seasonal positions and provide them with a unique insight into U.S. culture.

About Spirit Cultural Exchange

Spirit Cultural Exchange is designated by the United States Department of State as a BridgeUSA Program Sponsor for the J-1 Work and Travel, Internship, Trainee and Teacher Programs. Spirit’s U.S. based exchange programs allow you to truly immerse yourself in American culture while gaining professional experience or training in your field of expertise. We aim to provide all participants with a life-changing exchange experience, each contributing toward a global “spirit” of international peace and understanding that lasts long after the program ends. Spirit also offers cultural exchange programs outside the USA for Americans curious about the world.

PAST PARTICIPANTS WHO RECOMMEND SPIRIT

Past participants who were satisfied with their experience, past participants who experienced american culture, what people are saying….

Have a life changing experience and practice your Spanish while living with a Host Family abroad!

What’s happening at spirit….

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Workaway has committed over $20,000 USD from the Workaway foundation to help refugees from Ukraine.

Upon request all workawayers based in Ukraine will have their accounts extended for free until further notice.

Hosts in Ukraine have been temporarily disabled for safety reasons.

If you are a host and are able to take in refugees please add the information in your account and you will be added to our last minute host list .

Should you wish to donate and help please click here .

Cultural Exchange Programs

Support diversity & cultural awareness.

Since 1999, Education Travel & Culture promotes cultural exchange programs. Our inbound program opportunities are for high school exchange students where they study in an American high school and live with a volunteer American family. Our outbound program offers students the chance to study and live in a foreign country.

Learn More about Education Travel & Culture!

We are seeking volunteer host families for 2024

Argentina, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Chile, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Paraguay, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and Vietnam.

Become a host family

Our host families learn about a new culture by providing a place to stay for a foreign exchange student.

Work With ETC

Local coordinators become part of the ETC team by mentoring exchange students and help recruit host families.

Study Abroad

It’s time to have an adventure abroad. Choose your destination and have one of the best experiences of your life!

Testimonials

"we are currently hosting a student from germany through etc"..

"It has been an amazing experience. From the preparation and training they provided before she arrived, to the guidance, activities, and follow-up they have had during our year, the experience has been great." — Karen, Host Mom

"We have hosted several students with ETC and we love the close family atmosphere the organization provides!"

"The fact that it is a smaller organization allows for more personal relationships with our local coordinator and other host families in the area". — Jennifer, Host Mom

"My wife and I have had 2 students so far since learning about ETC".

"I love the way that the local coordinators are involved with hosting parties, visiting homes of the students, and the overall availability of things to do for students and their American families." — Jeremy, Host Dad

Hosting FAQs

Who are our students.

Our students are between 14-18 and come to America on a J-1 Visa. They are fluent in English and maintain a C or higher in all of their high school courses. They provide their own health insurance, spending money, and are eager to share their culture.

How will hosting benefit my family?​

Give your family an understanding of other cultures and the ability to communicate cross-culturally.

What would my responsibilities be?

• Room and board
• Transportation or carpooling
• Guidance and support for the student
• Monthly contact with ETC representative

We don’t have an extra bedroom

That’s okay! Students can share a room with one host sibling of the same gender and similar age.

What if there is a problem with our student?

ETC will be there 24 hours a day for emergencies and support. Your ETC Local Coordinator will be in regular contact with you to help solve problems and offer support and guidance.

We are very busy, is that a problem?

Living with a busy family is the best way for a student to learn about life in the U.S.

Find your student

Host family interest form.

Oregon: (503) 222-9803

Toll Free: (877) 222-9803

Fax: (503) 227-7224

1029 SW Washington St. Portland, OR 97205

Teach In Paradise

Make your fitness journey an unforgettable experience - with Fitness Vacation Exchange. 

Join us for a week of adventure and relaxation, exchange two classes teaching your fitness specialty each day and enjoy all-inclusive privileges. Get ready for a life-changing vacation that will leave you feeling inspired and energized.

SHARE YOUR PASSION FOR FITNESS WITH THE WORLD!

As an FVE instructor, traveling is easy and affordable.

Share your passion for fitness with guest from all over the world, while staying at one of our beautiful all-inclusive resorts in Mexico.

Live the experience.

Fill out OUR FITNESS VACATION EXCHANGE INSTRUCTOR APPLICATION FORM. 

RECEIVE APPROVAL  

Once approved, access your fitness vacation exchange instructor dashboard (FVE ID)

Book your fve adventure

Via your FVE ID Dashboard book your preferred resort and week of travel.

Are you ready to teach in paradise?

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Student Visa

Exchange Visitor Visa

Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the United States must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Exchange visitor (J) visas are nonimmigrant visas for individuals approved to participate in exchange visitor programs in the United States.

Exchange Visitor Categories Include:

• Au pair and EduCare
• Camp Counselor
• Government Visitor
• International Visitor (Dept. of State use)
• Professor and Research Scholar
• Short-term Scholar
• Student, college/university
• Student, secondary
• Summer Work Travel

Exchange Visitor Programs:

• Summer Work Travel Pilot Program: Australians
• Summer Work Travel Pilot Program: New Zealanders
• Intern Work Travel Program: Irish
• WEST (Work, English Study, and Travel) Program: South Koreans

Exchange Visitors cannot travel on the Visa Waiver Program or with Visitor Visas  - An exchange visitor visa (J) is required to participate in an exchange visitor program in the United States.  Foreign nationals may not study after entering on a visitor (B) visa or through the Visa Waiver Program (VWP)  For more information on the VWP, see  Visa Waiver Program .

Acceptance in Exchange Visitor Program  -  The first step is to apply for and be accepted into an exchange visitor program through a designated sponsoring organization in the United States. Visit the Department of State  J-1 Visa Exchange Visitor Program  website to learn about program requirements, regulations, and more. After the exchange visitor program accepts your participation, you will be registered for the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee (except in certain cases – consult your exchange visitor program sponsor). Visit the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)  Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)  website to learn more about SEVIS and the SEVIS I-901 Fee.

How to Apply

There are several steps to apply for a visa. The order of these steps and how you complete them may vary by U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Please consult the instructions on the  embassy or consulate website .

Complete the Online Visa Application

• Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application,  Form DS-160  –  Learn more  about completing the  DS-160 . You must: 1) complete the online visa application and 2) print the application form confirmation page to bring to your interview.
• Photo  – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. Your photo must be in the format explained in the  Photograph Requirements .

Schedule an Interview

Interviews are generally required for visa applicants with certain limited exceptions below. Consular officers may require an interview of any visa applicant.

You should schedule an appointment for your visa interview at the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  in the country where you live. You may schedule your interview at another U.S. Embassy or Consulate, but be aware that it may be more difficult to qualify for a visa outside of the country where you live. 

Wait times for interview appointments vary by location, season, and visa category, so you should apply for your visa early. Review the interview wait time for the location where you will apply:

Appointment Wait Time

Check the estimated wait time for a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Note: Please check the individual Embassy or Consulate website to determine if your case is eligible for a waiver of the in-person interview.

Applicants scheduling visa appointments in a location different from their place of residence should check post websites for nonresident wait times.

Select a U.S. Embassy or Consulate:

Prepare for your interview.

• Fees - Pay the non-refundable visa application fee , if you are required to pay it before your interview. If your visa is approved, you may also need to pay a visa issuance fee, if applicable to your nationality. Fee information is provided below:  

Application Fee

Select your nationality to see issurance fee.

• Review the instructions available on the website of the  embassy or consulate  where you will apply to learn more about fee payment.
• NOTE : U.S. government sponsored exchange visitor (J visa) applicants and their dependents are not required to pay application processing fees if participating in a Department of State, a U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), or a Federally funded educational and cultural exchange program which has a program serial number beginning with G-1, G-2, G-3, or G-7 printed on Form DS-2019, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status. U.S. government sponsored exchange visitor (J visa) applicants and their dependents are also not required to pay applicable issuance fees.

Gather Required Documentation

Gather and prepare the following required documents before your visa interview:

• Passport  valid for travel to the United States - Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the United States (unless exempt by  country-specific agreements ). Each individual who needs a visa must submit a separate application, including any family members listed in your passport.
• Nonimmigrant Visa Application,   Form DS-160 confirmation page.
• Application fee payment receipt,  if you are required to pay before your interview.
• Photo  – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. If the  photo upload fails,  you must bring one printed photo in the format explained in the  Photograph Requirements . 
• Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status, Form DS-2019  – Your program sponsor will provide you a SEVIS-generated Form DS-2019 after the sponsor enters your information in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) database. All exchange visitors must be registered in SEVIS. Your spouse and/or minor children, if they intend to live in the United States with you, will each receive a separate Form DS-2019.
• Training/Internship Placement Plan, Form DS-7002  – In addition to the Form DS 2019, participants in the J-1 Trainee and Intern categories require Form DS-7002 (based on Box 7 on Form DS-2019). Learn more about the  Trainee  and  Intern  programs.

Legal Rights and Protections

You must read the  Legal Rights and Protections  pamphlet to learn about your rights in the United States and protection available to you. Review this important pamphlet before applying for your visa.

Additional Documentation May Be Required

A consular officer will interview you to determine your qualifications for an exchange visitor visa, and may request additional documents, such as evidence of:

• The purpose of your travel;
• Your intent to depart the United States after your travel;
• Your ability to pay all travel costs.

Evidence of your employment and/or your family ties may be sufficient to show the purpose of your travel and your intent to return to your home country. If you cannot cover all the costs for your travel, you may show evidence that another person will cover some or all costs for your travel.

Review the instructions for how to apply for a visa on the website of the embassy or consulate where you will apply.

Attend Your Visa Interview

A consular officer will interview you to determine whether you are qualified to receive an exchange visitor visa. You must establish that you meet the requirements under U.S. law to receive a visa. 

Ink-free, digital fingerprint scans are taken as part of the application process. They are usually taken during your interview, but this varies based on location.

After your visa interview, the consular officer may determine that your application requires further  administrative processing . The consular officer will inform you if this is required.

After the visa is approved, you may need to pay a visa issuance fee (if applicable to your nationality), and make arrangements for the return of the passport and visa to you. Review the visa processing times  to learn more.

Two-year Home-Country Physical Presence Requirement

When you agree to participate in an Exchange Visitor Program and your program falls under the conditions below, you will be subject to the two-year home-country physical presence (foreign residence) requirement. This means you will be required to return to your home country for two years at the end of your exchange visitor program. This requirement under immigration law is based on Section 212(e) of the Immigration and Nationality Act.

Two-year Home-country Physical Presence Requirement Conditions  - An exchange visitor is subject to the two-year home-country physical presence requirement if the following conditions exist:

• Government funded exchange program  - The program is financed in whole or in part directly or indirectly by the U.S. government or the government of the exchange visitor's nationality or last residence;
• Graduate medical education or training  - The exchange visitor entered the United States to receive graduate medical education or training;
• Specialized knowledge or skill: Skills List  - The exchange visitor is a national or permanent resident of a country which has deemed the field of specialized knowledge or skill necessary to the development of the country, as shown on the Exchange Visitor Skills List.  Review the  Exchange Visitor Skills List 2009 .

Restrictions  - If you are subject to the two-year home-country physical presence requirement, you must return to your home country for a cumulative total period of at least two years before you can do any of the following:

• Change status  while in the United States to the nonimmigrant categories of temporary worker (H) or intracompany transferee (L);
• Adjust status  while in the United States to immigrant visa/lawful permanent resident status (LPR);
• Receive an immigrant visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate; or
• Receive a temporary worker (H), intracompany transferee (L), or fiancé (K) visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Waiver of Two Year Home-Country Physical Presence Requirement  - If you are not able to fulfill the home country presence requirement, you may apply for a waiver. Select  Waiver of the Exchange Visitor Two-Year Home-Country Physical Presence Requirement  to learn more about this requirement and how to request a waiver.

Entering the United States

A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. A visa only allows a foreign citizen to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry (generally an airport) and request permission to enter the United States. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port of entry have authority to permit or deny admission to the United States.

After you present your passport, visa, and DS-2019 at the port-of-entry, a CBP official will make this decision.  Once you are allowed to enter the United States, the CBP official will provide an admission stamp or paper Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record. 

Learn about procedures for students (with F or M visas) entering the United States on the CBP website under  Arrival Procedures for Students or Exchange Visitors .  Learn more about admissions and entry requirements, restrictions about bringing food, agricultural products, and other restricted/prohibited goods, and more by reviewing the  CBP website .

Extending Your Stay

See  Program Extension  on the Department of State Exchange Visitor Program website to learn about requesting to extend your exchange visitor program beyond the date listed on your Form DS-2019.

Additional information to maintain exchange visitor status is on the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement SEVP website under  Maintaining Your Immigration Status While a Student or Exchange Visitor .

Failure to depart the United States on time will result in being  out of status . Under U.S. law, visas of individuals who are out of status are automatically voided ( Section 222(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act ). Any multiple entry visa that was voided due to being out of status will not be valid for future entries into the United States. 

Failure to depart the United States on time may also result in you being ineligible for visas in the future. Review  Visa Denials  and  Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws  to learn more.

Change of Status

If your plans change while in the United States (for example, you marry a U.S. citizen or receive an offer of employment), you may be able to request a change in your nonimmigrant status to another category through  U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). See  Change My Nonimmigrant Status  on the USCIS website to learn more.

While you are in the United States, receiving a change of status from USCIS does not require you to apply for a new visa. However, once you depart the United States, you must apply for a visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the appropriate category for your travel.

Additional Information

• There is no guarantee that you will be issued a visa. Do not make final travel plans or buy tickets until you have a visa.
• For information about workig in the United Sates during your exchange program, review  Exchange Visitors  and  Employment Authorization  on the USCIS website.
• Your spouse and unmarried, minor children may be able to apply for J-2 visas to accompany or join you at a later date to reside with you during your J program, if permitted on your exchange program category. While SEVIS fee payment is not required, your sponsor must issue them separate DS-2019 Forms, which are required when they apply for their visas, along with a copy of the primary visa holder’s J-1 visa and proof of relationship.
• Your minor children are permitted to attend school while in the United States on J-2 visas and are not required to obtain  student (F) visas . 
•  U.S. Embassies and Consulates will adjudicate visa applications that are based on a same-sex marriage in the same way that we adjudicate applications for opposite gender spouses. 
• A valid U.S. visa in an expired passport is still valid. Unless canceled or revoked, a visa is valid until its expiration date. Therefore, a valid U.S. visa in an expired passport is still valid. If you have a valid visa in your expired passport, do not remove it from your expired passport. You may use your valid visa in your expired passport along with a new valid passport for travel and admission to the United States. 

Can I enter the United States more than 30 days in advance?

Exchange visitors are not permitted to enter the United States earlier than 30 days before their program start dates. If you want to enter earlier than 30 days, you must separately apply and qualify for a visitor (B) visa.

After you are admitted to the United States by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials in visitor (B) visa status, you must separately apply to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for a  change of status  to exchange visitor (J) status status prior to the start of your exchange program. You will not be permitted to begin your exchange program until the change of status is approved. You may also depart the United States and re-enter on your exchange visitor (J) visa.

What is an International Cultural Exchange Visitor Q-1 visa?

There are two nonimmigrant visa categories for persons to participate in exchange visitor programs in the United States. The J-1 exchange visitor visa is for educational and cultural exchange programs designated by the Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.

The Q-1 visa is for participation in certain international cultural exchange programs. These programs are designed to provide practical training and employment and allow program participants to share the history, culture, and traditions of their home countries in the United States. A person who wants to participate in an international cultural exchange program must be approved in advance by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on the basis of a petition filed by the U.S. sponsor.

Select  Temporary Worker Visas  to learn more.

Visa Renewal

Whether you are applying for the first time or renewing your visa, you will use the same application process (please review  How to Apply , above).

Visa Denial and Ineligibility

Review  Visa Denials  for detailed information about visa ineligibilities. denials, and waivers.

I was refused a visa, under section 214(b). May I reapply?

You may reapply if you believe you have additional evidence of your qualifications for an exchange visitor (J) visa, or you believe your circumstances have changed. Review  Visa Denials  to learn more.

Misrepresentation or Fraud

Attempting to obtain a visa by the willful misrepresentation of a material fact, or fraud, may result in the permanent refusal of a visa or denial of entry into the United States.

Review  Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws .

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda do not require visas to enter the United States as students, although they must present a valid Form DS-2019 at the time of admission. For more information see  information for Citizens of Canada and Bermuda .

Additional resources for Canadian visitors to the United States can be found on the  U.S. Embassy and Consulate websites in Canada .

Further Questions

• Case-Specific Questions  - Contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate handling your visa application for status information. Select  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  for contact information.
• General Questions  - review  Contact Us .

More Information

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It’s Time For a New Adventure!

International Travel & Cultural Exchange is a Jamaican based BridgeUSA Agency, dedicated to sending university and college undergrad students (J-1) to the USA. The Summer Work Travel programme provides foreign students with an opportunity to live and work in the United States during their summer vacations, and to experience the different ethnicities and way of life in the United States. The programme affords full-time university students the opportunity to participate in various cultural activities while being given the opportunity to work.

Summer Work & Travel

We enable students to participate in the cultural exchange program initiated by the US State Department in 1961.

Cultural Exchange

ITCE gives full time college/university students in Jamaica the grand opportunity to learn and experience other cultures in the USA while working.

What are the documents needed for my embassy appointment?

• A valid Passport (Should not be expiring within 6 months)
• Passport size photo, (must not be older than 6 months)
• DS160 confirmation page with Barcode
• Valid DS 2019 Form
• Valid SEVIS Certificate
• Valid Insurance Certificate
• Official University/ College Transcript displaying GPA
• Copy of MRV receipt (embassy fee receipt)

Do I need a transcript for my Embassy Appointment?

Yes… You need an official transcript from your college/university displaying your cumulative GPA, which should be 2.0 or higher . You must also be carrying a minimum of 4 courses per semester which must be equivalent to 12 credits or more.

ONLY official transcripts are accepted!

Can I get a J-1 visa if I’m not doing a bachelor’s degree?

Yes! Once you are reading for an associate degree or higher, you are eligible to participate on the program.

It’s Time For a New Adventure! Experience the World!

ITCE Connects

Changing lives… while shaping the future.

ITCE Connects Foundation started with this sole purpose as a charity foundation, to make a positive difference in the lives of Jamaicans and the environment.

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Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)

SEVP manages foreign students and exchange visitors in the United States.

The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) collects, maintains, analyzes and provides information so only legitimate foreign students or exchange visitors gain entry to the United States. SEVP also ensures that the institutions accepting nonimmigrant students are certified and follow the federal rules and regulations that govern them.

SEVP manages the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), a web-based information system that maintains and allows monitoring of the following records:

• SEVP-certified schools
• F-1 and M-1 nonimmigrant students and their dependents
• Exchange visitor program sponsors
• J-1 exchange visitors and their dependents

SEVIS enables SEVP to assure proper reporting and record keeping by schools and exchange visitor programs, thereby ensuring data currency and integrity. SEVIS also provides a mechanism for student and exchange visitor status violators to be identified so that appropriate enforcement is taken (e.g., denial of admission, denial of benefits or removal from the United States).

SEVP works closely with its government partners involved in the international student process, including U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the U.S. Department of State. Working with partner law enforcement agencies, SEVP administratively enforces federal rules and regulations governing schools certified to enroll F and M nonimmigrant students.

Prospective and current F or M students can use information and resources on this page to learn about the process for becoming an international student and the rules for studying in the United States as an international student.

Designated school officials can use this page to learn about all aspects of SEVP regulatory requirements to enroll F or M students.

What's New

Study in the states blog, media and news releases, publications.

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Content organization & url changes.

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• AAdvantage ® program

Earning on flights

Book directly with american.

Starting with tickets issued on July 11, 2024, the only flights that earn AAdvantage ® miles and Loyalty Points are those booked directly with American, eligible one world ® and partner airlines, and preferred travel agencies.

Flights booked through non-preferred travel agencies will not earn miles or Loyalty Points, unless the customer is registered with the AAdvantage Business ™ program or has a contracted corporate agreement with American.

Booking with us provides a better travel experience. You can manage your trip online, receive travel credit for canceled trips and more. Plus, you’ll continue to earn miles and Loyalty Points through our non-airline partners and on eligible purchases with an AAdvantage ® credit card.

Eligible travel

You must book directly to earn on flights. ‘Booking directly’ includes travel booked through American or our partner airlines’:

• Reservations and airport teams
• Ticket sales centers

Find a ticket sales center

You can also earn miles and Loyalty Points on most flights:

• As an AAdvantage Business ™ member, anywhere you book
• As part of a contracted corporate agreement with American, anywhere you book
• Through our preferred travel agencies

Plus, all flights booked as part of an American Airlines Vacations ™ package will continue to be eligible.

Basic Economy tickets

The only way to earn on Basic Economy fare tickets is if you book through American or our eligible airline partners’ websites, apps, Reservations and airport teams, or ticket sales centers.

Ineligible travel

You’ll no longer earn miles or Loyalty Points on:

• Basic Economy fares that are not booked directly through American or our partner airlines
• Basic Economy fares not booked directly through American as an AAdvantage Business ™ member or as part of a contracted corporate agreement
• Any trip booked through non-preferred travel agencies, unless you’re registered with the AAdvantage Business ™ program or have a contracted corporate agreement with American

Unsure if your trip will earn miles?

For corporate travel, check with your company travel manager.

If you’re booking through a travel agency, check with them once this change begins. We will also have more information about preferred agencies by June 5, 2024.

Preferred travel agencies

All agencies on a 2024 contracted incentive agreement issued by American are eligible to qualify into the preferred agency program at American's sole discretion.

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Have questions?

Yes, you’ll still earn AAdvantage ® miles and Loyalty Points on the eligible tickets you buy before July 11, 2024.

Tell your company to sign up for the AAdvantage Business ™ program -- it's fast and free to join. You’ll continue to earn miles and Loyalty Points anywhere you book, except on Basic Economy fare tickets. If you book directly through American, your company earns additional miles for future travel, and you earn additional Loyalty Points toward status and rewards.

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No matter where you book, you’ll earn miles and Loyalty Points if you include the AAdvantage Business ™ account number in your booking before departure. The exception is Basic Economy fare tickets, which must be booked directly through American.

To earn additional Loyalty Points on business travel through the AAdvantage Business ™ program, you must book directly through American. This helps accelerate your path to AAdvantage ® status and your business can earn 1 mile for every $1 spent on eligible travel.

There are no changes to miles or Loyalty Points earned on trips before July 11, 2024.

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Biden-Harris Administration Announces Final Rule Requiring Automatic Refunds of Airline Tickets and Ancillary Service Fees

Rule makes it easy to get money back for cancelled or significantly changed flights, significantly delayed checked bags, and additional services not provided  

WASHINGTON – The Biden-Harris Administration today announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued a final rule that requires airlines to promptly provide passengers with automatic cash refunds when owed. The new rule makes it easy for passengers to obtain refunds when airlines cancel or significantly change their flights, significantly delay their checked bags, or fail to provide the extra services they purchased.

“Passengers deserve to get their money back when an airline owes them - without headaches or haggling,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg . “Our new rule sets a new standard to require airlines to promptly provide cash refunds to their passengers.”  

The final rule creates certainty for consumers by defining the specific circumstances in which airlines must provide refunds. Prior to this rule, airlines were permitted to set their own standards for what kind of flight changes warranted a refund. As a result, refund policies differed from airline to airline, which made it difficult for passengers to know or assert their refund rights. DOT also received complaints of some airlines revising and applying less consumer-friendly refund policies during spikes in flight cancellations and changes. 

Under the rule, passengers are entitled to a refund for:

• Canceled or significantly changed flights: Passengers will be entitled to a refund if their flight is canceled or significantly changed, and they do not accept alternative transportation or travel credits offered. For the first time, the rule defines “significant change.” Significant changes to a flight include departure or arrival times that are more than 3 hours domestically and 6 hours internationally; departures or arrivals from a different airport; increases in the number of connections; instances where passengers are downgraded to a lower class of service; or connections at different airports or flights on different planes that are less accessible or accommodating to a person with a disability.  
• Significantly delayed baggage return: Passengers who file a mishandled baggage report will be entitled to a refund of their checked bag fee if it is not delivered within 12 hours of their domestic flight arriving at the gate, or 15-30 hours of their international flight arriving at the gate, depending on the length of the flight.  
• Extra services not provided: Passengers will be entitled to a refund for the fee they paid for an extra service — such as Wi-Fi, seat selection, or inflight entertainment — if an airline fails to provide this service.

DOT’s final rule also makes it simple and straightforward for passengers to receive the money they are owed. Without this rule, consumers have to navigate a patchwork of cumbersome processes to request and receive a refund — searching through airline websites to figure out how make the request, filling out extra “digital paperwork,” or at times waiting for hours on the phone. In addition, passengers would receive a travel credit or voucher by default from some airlines instead of getting their money back, so they could not use their refund to rebook on another airline when their flight was changed or cancelled without navigating a cumbersome request process.  

The final rule improves the passenger experience by requiring refunds to be:

• Automatic: Airlines must automatically issue refunds without passengers having to explicitly request them or jump through hoops.   
• Prompt: Airlines and ticket agents must issue refunds within seven business days of refunds becoming due for credit card purchases and 20 calendar days for other payment methods.  
• Cash or original form of payment: Airlines and ticket agents must provide refunds in cash or whatever original payment method the individual used to make the purchase, such as credit card or airline miles. Airlines may not substitute vouchers, travel credits, or other forms of compensation unless the passenger affirmatively chooses to accept alternative compensation.    
• Full amount: Airlines and ticket agents must provide full refunds of the ticket purchase price, minus the value of any portion of transportation already used. The refunds must include all government-imposed taxes and fees and airline-imposed fees, regardless of whether the taxes or fees are refundable to airlines.

The final rule also requires airlines to provide prompt notifications to consumers affected by a cancelled or significantly changed flight of their right to a refund of the ticket and extra service fees, as well as any related policies.

In addition, in instances where consumers are restricted by a government or advised by a medical professional not to travel to, from, or within the United States due to a serious communicable disease, the final rule requires that airlines must provide travel credits or vouchers. Consumers may be required to provide documentary evidence to support their request. Travel vouchers or credits provided by airlines must be transferrable and valid for at least five years from the date of issuance.

The Department received a significant number of complaints against airlines and ticket agents for refusing to provide a refund or for delaying processing of refunds during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. At the height of the pandemic in 2020, refund complaints peaked at 87 percent of all air travel service complaints received by DOT. Refund problems continue to make up a substantial share of the complaints that DOT receives.

DOT’s Historic Record of Consumer Protection Under the Biden-Harris Administration

Under the Biden-Harris Administration and Secretary Buttigieg, DOT has advanced the largest expansion of airline passenger rights, issued the biggest fines against airlines for failing consumers, and returned more money to passengers in refunds and reimbursements than ever before in the Department’s history.

• Thanks to pressure from Secretary Buttigieg and DOT’s flightrights.gov dashboard, all 10 major U.S. airlines guarantee free rebooking and meals, and nine guarantee hotel accommodations when an airline issue causes a significant delay or cancellation. These are new commitments the airlines added to their customer service plans that DOT can legally ensure they adhere to and are displayed on flightrights.gov .  
• Since President Biden took office, DOT has helped return more than $3 billion in refunds and reimbursements owed to airline passengers – including over $600 million to passengers affected by the Southwest Airlines holiday meltdown in 2022.   
• Under Secretary Buttigieg, DOT has issued over $164 million in penalties against airlines for consumer protection violations. Between 1996 and 2020, DOT collectively issued less than $71 million in penalties against airlines for consumer protection violations.  
• DOT recently launched a new partnership with a bipartisan group of state attorneys general to fast-track the review of consumer complaints, hold airlines accountable, and protect the rights of the traveling public.  
• In 2023, the flight cancellation rate in the U.S. was a record low at under 1.2% — the lowest rate of flight cancellations in over 10 years despite a record amount of air travel.  
• DOT is undertaking its first ever industry-wide review of airline privacy practices and its first review of airline loyalty programs.

In addition to finalizing the rules to require automatic refunds and protect against surprise fees, DOT is also pursuing rulemakings that would:

• Propose to ban family seating junk fees and guarantee that parents can sit with their children for no extra charge when they fly. Before President Biden and Secretary Buttigieg pressed airlines last year, no airline committed to guaranteeing fee-free family seating. Now, four airlines guarantee fee-free family seating, and the Department is working on its family seating junk fee ban proposal.  
• Propose to make passenger compensation and amenities mandatory so that travelers are taken care of when airlines cause flight delays or cancellations.   
• Expand the rights for passengers who use wheelchairs and ensure that they can travel safely and with dignity . The comment period on this proposed rule closes on May 13, 2024.

The final rule on refunds can be found at https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer/latest-news and at regulations.gov , docket number DOT-OST-2022-0089. There are different implementation periods in this final rule ranging from six months for airlines to provide automatic refunds when owed to 12 months for airlines to provide transferable travel vouchers or credits when consumers are unable to travel for reasons related to a serious communicable disease. 

Information about airline passenger rights, as well as DOT’s rules, guidance and orders, can be found at   https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer .

Info Session – Japan Research Fellowships – JSPS

Date: May 14, 2024

Time: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., location: humanities and social sciences building 1 – room 202.

Are you interested in  funding  for research, collaboration, and travel opportunities in Japan?

The  Division of Global Engagement  will host the  Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS)  for an  in-person  information session about fellowship opportunities in Japan, including:

• Short-term Postdoc 
• Standard Postdoc 
• Invitational Short-term + Invitational Long-term 

Staff from the JSPS San Francisco Office will be present on campus to answer your questions about fellowship opportunities, application procedures, and life as a researcher in Japan.

JSPS, the  largest research-funding agency  in Japan, has  hundreds of funding opportunities  available to  ALL FIELDS (social science, humanities, STEM, multi-disciplinary)  for research at all Japanese universities and public research institutions. 

Who should attend? All faculty, students, and staff are welcome. This information session is particularly relevant for:

• Pre-PhD students (summer and short-term fellowships)
• Postdocs (summer, short, and long-term fellowships)
• Faculty fellowships at junior, mid, and senior levels (short and long-term)

Australia's Katherine Bennell-Pegg graduates from European Space Agency astronaut program

It's been a journey of countless small steps, along with a few giant leaps into the unknown, but Katherine Bennell-Pegg is hoping her future as a space traveller is finally on the launch pad as she graduates as a fully qualified astronaut.

"It's still so surreal that this is happening," said the 39-year-old Adelaide resident, who grew up on Sydney's northern beaches.

"When I dreamed of becoming an astronaut, as a child growing up in Sydney, I never thought it possible to do so representing Australia."

For the past 12 months she's been training to become an astronaut at the European Astronaut Centre in Germany.

The mother-of-two was initially among 22,500 other applicants for the training program with the European Space Agency.

Ms Bennell-Pegg is one of six to graduate.

"It's been such an intense year and … I'm yet to take a breath and step back and realise that, 'Today I become an Australian astronaut and I'm spaceflight ready'," she said.

"It's really 'pinch me' stuff.

"I'm filled with gratitude, because this isn't my accomplishment alone. Throughout my life, throughout this year, I've been very well supported by my family, by my schools, by my colleagues. It's just incredible."

While her graduation from the astronaut training program is not in itself a guarantee of being selected for a future space mission, Ms Bennell-Pegg joins a select group of "space-ready" individuals eligible for consideration.

"There's no flight guaranteed for me. That's not unusual for astronauts when they graduate," she said.

"For my class, I'm graduating with five others. All five of them will go to space by 2030 and I'm so excited to see them go up and I'll be cheering them on.

"And who knows, maybe one day I'll see them up there too, but the decision for if or when I fly is a decision for Australia to take in the future when the time becomes right to take it."

If that happens, Katherine Bennell-Pegg will not be the world's first Australian-born astronaut.

That distinction already belongs to Paul Scully-Power who joined a NASA mission in 1984.

Fellow Aussie Andy Thomas also went to space with NASA in 1996.

Both men were United States citizens when they went to space.

But Ms Bennell-Pegg has pushed into a new frontier by becoming the first person to be trained as part of Australia's own space program.

At the front of the line

That means she is well-placed to potentially become the first person sent into space as part of an Australian mission.

"Well, the future is full of promise, but still unknown," Ms Bennell-Pegg said.

"Australia has a long and proud history in space, but we've only just accelerated our capabilities in recent years.

"Our space agency is quite young, so it's early days.

"And I really stand on the shoulders of giants here as well. Not only the first Australians to go to space in recent decades, but the many others who have worked to build Australia's space sector over the years."

With her training secondment to the European Space Agency at an end, Ms Bennell-Pegg returns to her day job as director of space technology at the Australian Space Agency.

It was an arduous 12 months for the Sydney woman as she tackled the rigorous training required to help her become accustomed to the physical and mental demands of space flight.

That included learning to speak Russian, long hours underwater in scuba equipment practising how to perform spacewalks, and stints in centrifuges and oxygen low-pressure chambers.

Simulated weightlessness flights have been a particular favourite.

"Oh, it's absolutely incredible," Ms Bennell-Pegg.

"When we go on zero-G flights, as they're called, you experience weightlessness for about 22 seconds at a time.

"You lift off the floor and your belly goes into your throat and stays there, but as the gravity kind of drops off, you just get the biggest smile on your face.

"It's the most different feeling. You just have this feeling of absolute freedom."

Regardless of whether she travels into space one day, Ms Bennell-Pegg hopes she can be a trailblazer for future generations of Australian kids ready to set their sights sky-high.

"For those that want to become astronauts, it's absolutely as fun as you can imagine," she said.

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