Academic Training

J-1 students are eligible for academic training upon completion of their degree.

• Up to 18 months for completion of Bachelor’s or Master’s
• Up to 3 years for completion of Doctorate degree
• Equal amount as time studying for non-degree student (such as exchange) 
  

Academic training must be authorized before you can legally begin working.

Part of the Academic Training process will involve finding a job in the United States. While you may use other connections and websites to find positions, UC has a resource for its students called Handshake. Using this portal, you can find co-ops, internships and post-graduation jobs that best match your career path.

In this video from Experience-Based Learning and Career Education, learn how to use Handshake to find employers who will sponsor international students and/or don't require a U.S. work visa.

You must have a job offer related to your field of study in order to request academic training. You need to apply for academic training no later than date of completion of studies indicated on the DS-2019.

To apply, submit an Academic Training e-form in iBearcatsGlobal. The e-form is under J-1 Student Services. You will need the following information:

• Name of employer
• Address of employment
• Hours to be worked
• Date of degree completion
• Description of job duties
• Name of supervisor
• Phone number and email of supervisor
• Employment Identification Number (EIN)

While on academic training, you are still under the jurisdiction of the University of Cincinnati, even though your place of employment may be located elsewhere in the US.

If you are planning to travel outside the US while on academic training, contact UC International for instructions. 

You are responsible for being aware of the end date on your DS-2019. If you need to apply for an extension of stay, apply to UC International with enough time to keep your status active through the entire period of academic training.