How Can I be considered for placement in the Intern Program?
- Submit your application.
- Complete your file by submitting the required supporting documents as requested by Amity’s Admission Counselor.
- Respond promptly to any requests from Amity Institute.
If I hold dual-citizenship with the U.S., can I apply for the Program?
Unfortunately, if you hold dual-citizenship with the U.S., we are unable to sponsor you as you do not need a J1 visa.
Is placement guaranteed?
Amity cannot guarantee placement. Host Schools select interns that they feel are the best fit for their school based on the information the interns have provided in their application and supporting documents.
How can I improve my chances of receiving a placement?
- Maintain a flexible period of availability.
- Be willing to go to any region of the United States (we do not accept location requests.)
- Be open to working with multiple age groups.
Can I look for my own Host School?
No, you may not contact schools on your own behalf.
How do I know if I have been selected for an internship??
Once a Host School decides to offer you an invitation, they will notify Amity. Amity’s Admissions Counselor will then contact you via email with an offer letter that contains the terms of your assignment.
What do I do to accept a Host Schools invitation?
- Be available to come to the United States for the entire assignment period.
- Be able to fulfill the financial requirements.
- Be prepared to adapt to a new community, home, and school environment.
What happens if I do not accept the Host School's invitation?
Your file will be returned to our pool of applicants until we are able to find another opportunity that is suitable.
What happens when I am officially an Amity Intern?
- An Amity Program Counselor will be assigned to you.
- Your Program Counselor will send you information about your internship, the visa application process, health insurance, and all preparations necessary prior to departure.
- The Program Counselor provides guidance, support, encouragement, and assistance with any problems from the beginning of the assignment until the end.
What if I accept an invitation, but must cancel prior to my arrival?
- You must inform Amity Institute and the school immediately.
- You will forfeit the application fee.
- Your visa sponsorship will be cancelled.
Are all assignments the same?
NO. Amity assignments vary in length of stay, location, school, stipend, specific duties, and responsibilities.
What are common assignment lengths?
- Full School Year: (ten months) from August to June
- One Semester: (five months from August to January or from January to June.)
The Amity Team strongly encourages participants to commit to a full school year of cultural exchange. Read our reasons why here.
Note: per visa regulations, assignments cannot exceed 10 months.
Where are assignments located?
Amity works with participating schools throughout the United States. Many schools are in the Midwest, in non-urban locations, and small communities. Therea re a few assignments in major U.S. cities.
Wha type of school will I be assigned to?
Participating schools include public, private, religious, foreign language immersion and bilingual schools.
Below is a breakdown of the approximate age and corresponding educational level:
- Elementary: 5-12 years of age
- Middle/Jr. High: 13-15 years of age
- Secondary (High School): 15-18 years of age
What will be my assignment responsibilities?
Assignments vary greatly from school to school. Examples include:
- Assist teachers in classes of different levels.
- Give cultural presentations.
- Assist with student activities: festivals, sports, choir, and performances.
- Work with small student groups, help in language labs, or lead discussion groups.
What are the program costs?
Fixed Costs:
- $150 non-refundable application fee paid to Amity Institute
- $180 SEVIS FEE (this is a State Department Fee)
Costs that vary by country:
- Visa application costs (approximately $150)
- Health Insurance (approximately $90 per month)
- Personal expense money (minimum of $150 per month). Covers everyday costs for toiletries, clothing, travel entertainment, telephone, etc.
- Travel Expenses to and from the United States
Consider all costs before applying. Participants receive a monthly stipend of $200 minimum as well as free room and board (a value of approximately $900 per month). Do not expect to earn additional money during your assignment as this violates visa rules.
Do I need health insurance?
YES! It is a visa requirement that all participants have sickness and accident insurance for their entire stay in the United States, beginning with the travel date to the U.S. and ending with the date of departure from the U.S.
Once invited, Amity will provide information for a qualifying insurance policy that costs approximately $90 per month. Other insurance plans are acceptable if they are in compliance with visa regulations.
Where will I be living?
- All interns live with a Host Family arranged by the Host School
- Interns receive room and board free of charge
- Interns have a private bedroom in the home
- Interns will often live with more than one host family during their assignment
- Interns are expected to actively participate in family life and household chores
- Interns are responsible for all additional living expenses
- Interns are responsible for their own transportation during free time
- Transportation to and from school is arranged by the Host School and may be with a member of the Host Family
