Can I work if I'm an exchange student?

It is possible for exchange students to work on campus for up to 20 hours a week during their stay at SUNY New Paltz. You will receive more information about how to get a social security card and finding on campus employment during orientation week.

In addition, exchange students can apply for “Academic Training”.  Academic Training is work experience directly related to your field of study.  The length of Academic Training can be no longer than the time spent studying on the J-1 exchange program, and/or no more than 18 months.  For example, if your exchange program lasted one semester (four months), the Academic Training cannot exceed four months.  If your exchange program lasted 24 months, the Academic Training cannot exceed 18 months.  According to J-1 visa guidance, "A student can engage in up to 18 months [of Academic Training] or the period of the full course of study, whichever is less."

If you are interested in Academic Training, please speak to the International Student Programs staff.

ACADEMIC TRAINING INFORMATION FOR J-1 EXCHANGE STUDENTS

What is Academic Training?

Academic Training is work experience directly related to the field of study for J-1 exchange students.

How long can I work on Academic Training?

The length of Academic Training should be no longer than the time spent studying on the J-1 exchange program, and has a maximum limit of 18 months.  "A student can engage in up to 18 months [of Academic Training] or the period of the full course of study, whichever is less."

When can I do Academic Training?

You have to begin Academic Training no later than 30 days after your exchange program has finished.

IMPORTANT:  If you are participating in Academic Training after your program ends, you MUST complete the approval process BEFORE your current DS-2019 expires.  You will need an extension of your DS-2019 and we cannot extend your current DS-2019 after your program end date.

Do I have to work for a minimum number of hours per week while on Academic Training?

No.

Can I get paid while on Academic Training?

Yes.

Must I have Health Insurance coverage while on Academic Training?

Yes, you must extend your current SUNY International Student Insurance for the duration of your stay in the US.

How do I apply for Academic Training? Checklist:

• Find a job related to your field of study.

• Contact your home university. They will need to approve your placement by completing the Academic Training Recommendation Form.

• Hand in a letter from your employer to International Student Programs  stating the nature of the work, the dates of employment, location of employment, details of payment, AND the Academic Training Employment Recommendation Form completed by your home university.

• International Student Programs will extend and/or update your DS-2019 with the Academic Training approval and give it to you. You can show the new DS-2019 to your employer as proof of work authorization.

*NOTE: You cannot begin working until you receive the authorization on your DS-2019.