The United States remains one of the world’s most popular destinations for student exchange programs, thanks to its wide range of accredited institutions, campus life, and academic opportunities. For many students, an exchange in the U.S. is not only a big step in their education, but also a major personal milestone.
What is a student exchange program?
A student exchange program is an opportunity for secondary school or university students to study in another country for a defined period (for example, a semester, summer term, or academic year). In many cases, the student attends courses at a host institution that has an agreement with their home school or university, allowing them to continue their studies abroad.
Depending on the type of exchange and the sponsor, students typically stay with a host family, in university housing, or in private accommodation.
Which visa do you need for a student exchange in the USA?
Many exchange programs use the J-1 Exchange Visitor visa. With a J-1, your program is managed by a designated sponsor (often a university or an approved organization). The sponsor is central to your exchange: they issue the key eligibility document and oversee program rules. Official J-1 visa information.
Important: ESTA is not a visa and it is generally not used for participating in an exchange program like J-1. Always follow the visa category required by your specific program. Source: U.S. Department of State.
Step 1: Research and choose the right exchange program
Start by identifying a student exchange that matches your academic goals, preferred location, and timeframe. Many students join programs through:
- University partnerships (your home institution has an agreement with a U.S. institution).
- Government-funded programs in your home country or in the U.S.
- Independent sponsors that place students in U.S. institutions.
You may also find scholarships from government and private organizations that cover part or all of the costs, depending on eligibility.
Step 2: Apply to the host institution (or exchange sponsor process)
After you decide on a program and a host institution, you’ll need to submit an application. If you are applying through your home university, they usually guide you through the exchange process. If you’re applying through an independent sponsor or directly to a U.S. institution, check the requirements carefully and submit the required documents within the deadlines.
Step 3: Meet language, academic, and health insurance requirements
Most programs require you to meet academic standards and show English proficiency if you’re not a native speaker (commonly via tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or another accepted credential).
For many exchange programs, health insurance is mandatory for the entire duration of your stay. Your sponsor or university may offer a plan, or you may be allowed to use an approved private provider—always confirm what your program requires.
Step 4: Receive your DS-2019 from the sponsor
If your exchange is under the J-1 category, your program sponsor issues your DS-2019 (Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status). This document confirms that you’ve been accepted into an exchange program and is required to apply for the J-1 visa. Official guidance.
Step 5: Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee (if required)
Many exchange visitors must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee before the visa interview. Your sponsor will tell you whether you need to pay it and how. Keep proof of payment for your records and for the interview if requested. SEVIS fee details.
Step 6: Complete the DS-160 and pay the visa application fee
To apply for the J-1 visa, you must complete the DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application) and pay the applicable visa fee. As of the official fee schedule, the standard nonimmigrant visa application fee for visa categories including J is USD 185 (some applicants may be exempt depending on the program). Always confirm the current fee in the official table. Official visa fee schedule.
Print your DS-160 confirmation page and keep your payment receipt.
Step 7: Attend the U.S. embassy or consulate interview
Once your application is submitted, you will schedule and attend an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Bring the documents requested by your embassy/consulate and your sponsor. Commonly required documents include:
- Your valid passport.
- DS-2019 (issued by your sponsor).
- DS-160 confirmation page.
- Visa fee payment receipt.
- SEVIS I-901 payment receipt (if required).
- A photo (only if required by the consulate instructions).
You may also be asked for supporting documentation, such as proof of funds, ties to your home country, and details about your study plan.
Important rules and tips for a student exchange in the USA
- Don’t buy plane tickets until you have your visa, unless your program explicitly advises otherwise.
- Entry window: J-1 students are typically allowed to enter the U.S. up to 30 days before the program start date and remain up to 30 days after the program end date (grace period). USCIS guidance.
- Work rules: J-1 work authorization depends on your sponsor and specific program rules. Some work may be allowed (for example, on-campus activities or approved training), but you must get authorization through the correct process before working. Employment authorization info.
- Two-year home residency rule (212(e)) may apply: some J-1 participants are subject to a requirement to return to their home country for two years before they can change status to certain visa categories or apply for permanent residence—unless a waiver is granted. Check your visa stamp and DS-2019 and confirm with your sponsor. Official details.
- Passport validity: keep your passport valid for the full duration of your stay (and check any additional validity guidance that may apply to your nationality). Official guidance.
Can you extend your stay after a student exchange in the USA?
Extensions and changes depend on your program, sponsor rules, and your immigration situation. In some cases, a sponsor may extend the DS-2019 if program rules allow. Changing status (for example, to a work category) is possible in certain situations but is not guaranteed and may be restricted if you are subject to the 212(e) requirement. Always consult your sponsor and, if needed, qualified immigration counsel. U.S. Department of State.
We can help you!
As a visa processing service, Visagov can guide you through the documentation and application steps for travel authorization and visa-related processes depending on your destination and situation. If you’re preparing for a student exchange in the U.S., we can help you understand the general steps and what documents are commonly required.
If you’re new to the process and planning to study abroad, contact us for details and guidance.
FAQ: Student exchange programs in the USA
Is ESTA the same as a U.S. visa?
No. ESTA is a travel authorization under the Visa Waiver Program and is not a visa. Exchange programs typically require a visa such as J-1, depending on the program. Official source.
How much does a J-1 visa cost?
The standard nonimmigrant visa application fee for J visas is listed as $185 in the official fee schedule, but always confirm the latest fee and whether your program has exemptions. Fee schedule.
Do I need SEVIS for a J-1 exchange?
Many J-1 participants must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee. Your sponsor will confirm if it applies to you and provide instructions. Official details.
Can I work while on a J-1 exchange?
Possibly, but only with proper authorization under your sponsor’s rules and the specific type of work/training allowed by your program. Never start working without approval. USCIS info.
What is the 212(e) two-year rule?
Some J-1 participants must return to their home country for two years before they can change status to certain visas or apply for permanent residence—unless they obtain a waiver. Official details.
