Background

Work & Travel USA is an official US State Department programme that allows students in tertiary education from around the world to visit the USA during their term break to experience life in the US through working and traveling there.

Every year, around 90,000 students participate in Work & Travel USA. Sponsors appointed by the US State Department are responsible for preparing the necessary DS 20-19 form. This is essentially a temporary work permit giving you, the student, access to a range of employment opportunities. The sponsors also assist in finding jobs and provide support services while the student is in the US.

In turn, the Sponsors appoint country agents, who interview students to assess eligibility to participate in the programme, assist in preparing the necessary documents to support the DS 20-19 application, as well as helping you to prepare an application for a visa to travel to America.

CIEE (Council on International Education Exchange) is the largest such sponsor, sending some 30,000 students to the US every year. Out of the Box Sdn Bhd is their appointed agent for Work & Travel USA in Malaysia. You can find out more about CIEE and Work & Travel USA here
Why Participate in Work & Travel USA

Work & Travel USA is, without doubt, one of the best ways to discover the US. It is a huge country, with many different places to visit and things to see.

What makes is even more special is that it is also a great way for you to discover more about yourself. You will have more than just great memories and photos. You will also have international work experience, which will enhance your CV. You will have had a chance to hone your English skills. And perhaps most important, you will have learned how to survive in a new and challenging environment, developing skills you can’t get sitting in a classroom or reading a book – interpersonal skills, negotiating skills, survival skills. All these will stand you in good stead in the future.
Timing & Duration

Every year, there are three periods during which Work & Travel USA operates:
- Winter: November 15th – April 15th
- Spring: dates vary
- Summer: June 1st – October 19th.

The minimum employment period is two months, and the maximum is four months. In addition to the working period, students are allowed to remain in the USA for an additional 25 days to travel. You are not allowed to work during this period.

The DS 20-19 form and visa will be valid only for the duration stated by each participant. They cannot be extended.

Students may not miss part of their term in order to participate in Work & Travel USA – they must complete their term before traveling to the USA to take up a job, and must return to their home country in time to start the new semester.
Eligibility

To be eligible to participate in Work & Travel USA, you must meet the following requirements:
- be at least 18 years old
- be enrolled in a full time course at a state-recognised institution of tertiary education not in your final year of study
- be able to function in an English speaking working environment
- have a pre-arranged job and a minimum of US$475 available to support yourself upon arrival in the USA.