Work, English Study, Travel (WEST) Program
The WEST program is an innovative exchange program that is designed to permit up to 5,000 qualifying university students and recent university graduates to obtain visas annually to enter the United States for a period of up to 18 months as J-1 visa exchange visitors. The WEST participants will be able to study English, participate in internships, and travel independently.
Participants will take part in structured English language training and coursework focusing on American business practices and business procedures, U.S. corporate culture, and general office management issues. Following their course of English language study, WEST participants will be placed in an internship commensurate with the student’s field of study, interests and abilities.
The U.S. elements of the program will be coordinated by three private sector U.S. sponsor organizations authorized to coordinate the program by the United States Department of State’s Bureau of Education and Cultural Affairs. Those three sponsors are the Association for International Practical Training (AIPT), the Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE), and Intrax.