A J-1 intern is…
- someone who has not completed their undergraduate degree,
- is collaborating with a UW-Madison faculty or staff member to enhance the skills and expertise in their academic or occupational fields, through participation in structured and guided work-based training and internship programs and
- whose internship is NOT a requirement for their graduation.
If you have someone who you believe meets these qualifications, you, as the host department can now work directly with any external approved J-1 Intern sponsor. IFSS does not need to be involved in this process.
If they have completed their bachelor’s degree, you can work with IFSS.
If the internship is required for graduation from their home institution, you can work with the International Student Services office.
As of March 1, 2024, the host department can work directly with the third party sponsor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Third Party Sponsors
Below is a list of some approved sponsors:
A complete list of potential J-1 Intern Sponsors can be found here.
How much does it cost to use one of these outside sponsors?
It depends on the sponsor, how long they will be in the United States and other factors. You will need to contact your prospective sponsor for more information.
How long does it take these outside sponsors to prepare the immigration documents?
It depends on the sponsor. Most sponsors will be upfront about their processing times and may have an option to speed up the process for an additional fee.
Do J-1 Interns need to attend IFSS J-1 Scholar Orientation?
No, since UW–Madison is not the program sponsor, they do not need to attend the IFSS J-1 Scholar Orientation.
Do J-1 Interns need to enroll in SHIP insurance?
No. Prospective J-1 interns should reach out to their J-1 sponsor for health insurance information. They cannot enroll in SHIP if they are not sponsored by UW-Madison.
Can J-1 Interns get a Wiscard?
Yes, if they have an active appointment in HRS. Please consult the HR office in the host department.
Can J-1 Interns get a Net ID?
Yes, if they have an active appointment in HRS. Please consult the HR office in the host department.
What employment titles are appropriate for J-1 Interns?
The appropriate title depends on several factors, such as, will the J-1 intern be paid or unpaid, and what is the minimum education, training, and experience required to successfully perform the job. Please consult the Office of Human Resources Standard Job Description chart and contact the department’s Human Resources Office for more information.
Can J-1 Interns be paid?
Check with your immigration sponsor.
Do J-1 Interns have to be paid?
Check with your immigration sponsor.
Can J-1 Interns take classes?
No. The purpose of the J-1 Intern category is to “enhance the skills and expertise of exchange visitors in their academic or occupational fields, through participation in structured and guided work-based training and internship programs” and not to enroll in course work.