The U.S. Internship Guide

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Your Internship – Your Way

Dear Students & Recent Graduates,

Are you interested in a once in a lifetime opportunity to expand your potential, both personally

and in your career? An internship in the United States is the perfect way to distinguish yourself

from your peers through new and exciting professional experiences. Build up your practical

business skills and knowledge, improve your English, and highlight your flexibility, adaptability

and ambition!

Founded in 2000, InternScout supports international students with internship opportunities

across the United States. Over the past ten years our specialized placement services have

secured internships for more than 10,000 students and graduates; giving them a competitive

edge to succeed in their future careers. Our young team in San Diego, California understands

today’s job market and will assist you in customizing the perfect internship program to fit your

needs.

We look forward to working with you as you embark on your U.S. internship adventure.

Sincerely,

Your InternScout Team

1620 Fifth Avenue, Suite 575, San Diego, CA 92101, USA

U.S. Telephone: (+1) 619-795-3280 European Telephone: (+49) 341-2252032

- [email protected] -

mailto:-%[email protected]

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Table of Contents

I. Introduction & Overview ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5

II. Our Programs ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6

III. J-1 Visa Information ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 15

IV. Application Process ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 16

V. Fees & Refunds ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 17

VI. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) ---------------------------------------------------------------- 18

VII. Registration Information ----------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------ 19

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I. Introduction & Overview

InternScout was established with the principle that YOU should have the ability to choose your

internship according to YOUR wishes. The field or industry, the program length, the U.S.

location, and even whether or not the internship is paid or unpaid should be YOUR decision.

We work with you to choose an internship from a wide variety of available positions in many

different industries and locations across the United States. By reviewing your specific internship

dates, your academic background and your personal wishes, our team will prepare all of your

relevant application materials and coordinate a U.S. internship specifically tailored to your

personal profile. We verify every company to ensure that the positions we submit you for are

interesting and well-organized. During this process, we will also provide you with detailed

information about companies interested in your application, guide you through the phone or

webcam interviews with the supervisors, and assist you in making an informed decision. Once

the interviews are completed, you decide whether or not you want to accept the internship

position – it’s that simple.

InternScout is proud to partner with CV One®, the leading

and most easy-to-use video resume software in the world

for creating a persuasive video resume.

As an InternScout participant you will receive free access to CV One® to highlight your skills and

talents, impress companies with a striking application resume, spark interest and differentiate

yourself from other applicants and sprint ahead of the competition! For more information, visit:

http://www.gocvone.com

Eligibility

InternScout programs are open to all students and recent graduates who are at least 18 years

old, have a good working knowledge of English, and meet the U.S. Department of State

requirements to receive a J-1 visa (please see the section, J-1 Visa Information for additional

details)

Prerequisites

Educational and/or work experience must be directly related to the desired field of your

internship in the U.S.

Must be currently enrolled in a post-secondary school or university, or have graduated

from a post-secondary school or university within twelve months of the start date of your

internship (please contact us directly for questions about this requirement)

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Registration Dates

Registration with InternScout is possible year-round, however due to the high demand of U.S.

internship positions we strongly recommend that you register with us at least 4 to 6 months

before your desired internship start date.

Please note: the process of securing the U.S. visa after your internship is confirmed can be a

lengthy process. After securing your internship, InternScout will submit your application to our

partner visa service provided by the German American Chamber of Commerce California

(www.ds2019.com). Please be aware that the earlier you register with InternScout the more

time we are able to dedicate to finding the perfect internship for you and securing your visa.

Program Length

The minimum internship period is one month, however most U.S. companies look for interns

who are available for at least 3 to 6 months. Internships can last up to 12 months and, in some

cases, even 18 months (ask your InternScout representative for more information). For all

hospitality and tourism internships – the maximum duration allowed is 12 months, per U.S.

Department of State requirements.

II. Our Programs

Searching for and securing an internship in the United States, especially as a foreign student

who is not familiar with the industry and national customs, is not easy. InternScout acts as your

voice and represents your interests when dealing with U.S. companies. We offer a wide variety

of internship positions in many exciting fields, such as: finance, business administration, new

media, marketing, information technology, fashion, computer programming, music production,

and many more. We are constantly updating our programs and position listings so be sure to

visit www.internscout.com regularly to receive the most up-to-date internships available.

Looking for a specific internship in the United States that you can’t seem to find anywhere else?

InternScout organizes your U.S. internship in the field and location of your choice. Our specialty

programs (New York, California, IT, Architecture, etc.) are designed with the most popular

destinations and industries in mind so you get exactly the internship you want!

Specialty Program categories:

- New York Internship Program

- California Internship Program (i.e. Silicon Valley)

- Automotive Internship Program

- IT Internship Program

- Architecture Internship Program

- Aviation Internship Program

- Green Internship Program

- Non-Profit Internship Program

- Start-Up Internship Program (coming soon)

http://www.ds2019.com/

http://www.internscout.com/

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New York Internship Program - Famous for its diversity and role in global business, media,

fashion, arts and entertainment, New York City is the most sought after destination for an

internship in the United States. New York’s top companies are looking for educated and

talented foreign interns who wish to refine their skills and to provide their business with a unique

international perspective.

Due to the high demand for internships in The Big Apple, getting your foot in the door on your

own can be difficult. By participating in InternScout’s New York Internship Program you will be

directly matched with a company in Manhattan – the heart of New York that suits your skills and

interests.

Positions

Internships in New York are available in all fields including, but not limited to, Fashion, Business

Administration, Marketing, Public Relations, Finance, etc and are available year-round.

Duration

3 to 12 months

Cost of Living

New York is one of the most expensive cities in the world. While Manhattan is a great place to

live, you definitely have to pay for the postal code. Renting a room in a shared apartment can

range from $700-1200 USD per month. Cheaper accommodation may be available in outside

neighborhoods such as Brooklyn, Queens or the Bronx. A monthly transit pass is approximately

$76 USD and can be used on all subways and local buses. Food can be cheap or pricey

depending on how and where you decide to eat. While supermarkets are fairly cheap, dining out

(especially in Manhattan) is known for being particularly expensive.

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California Internship Program – Known as America’s Golden State, California is one of the

leading U.S. states for entertainment, business, trade, education, research, technology, and

economic trends. Boasting the largest economy in the United States, California is unparalleled

in innovation, diversity and culture.

California is bouncing back from the recent economic recession and the demand for internships

is growing, especially in the technology sector. If you have been searching for the perfect

internship on the West Coast, InternScout can assist you in becoming part of California’s future

by connecting you directly with in-demand companies looking for qualified skilled interns.

Positions

Internships in California are available in all fields including, but not limited to, IT, Computer

Programming, Web Design, Business Administration, Marketing, Finance, etc. and are available

year-round. Programs take place primarily in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego;

however InternScout can also arrange internships in other California locations.

Duration

3 to 12 months

Cost of Living

This varies greatly depending on which city or region you choose for your internship, however

California is more expensive on average than many other U.S. states. Renting a room in an

apartment can range from $400-800 USD per month, and a studio or one-bedroom apartment is

approximately $1200-1500 USD per month. Cheaper accommodation may be available in city

suburbs. A monthly transit pass is approximately $84 USD in Los Angeles and $72 USD in San

Francisco and San Diego and can be used on subways and local buses. Food prices can vary

greatly depending on city and whether you prepare your own meals or dine out at a restaurant.

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Automotive Internship Program – In the increasingly competitive automotive industry an

internship provided by InternScout may be exactly the jump-start your career needs. Many

automotive companies require internship experience before considering you for permanent

employment, and due to the current economic climate, having automotive knowledge and skills

are more important than ever.

InternScout’s Automotive Internship Program can help you navigate the fields within the

automotive sector ensuring you find the exact internship that is right for you.

Positions

Internships in Automotive Program are available in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing

Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Auto Repair, Product Development, Design, Research &

Development, and Purchasing and are available year-round. U.S. locations may vary

depending on need and demand, but may include Illinois, South Carolina, and Michigan.

Duration

1 to 12 months

Cost of Living

Varies by location. InternScout will provide you with more specific details regarding living

expenses upon confirmation of your internship and location.

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IT Internship Program – These days, Information Technology and computer expertise are

critical to business and creating a high demand for computer technology interns. Nearly all

companies, regardless of size, make use of IT to some extent and the need for experienced

professionals is expanding rapidly. If you are a studying Information Technology or other

Computer Science related fields, having practical skills through a U.S. internship experience

gives you a major advantage over others in the industry.

The IT Internship Program provided by InternScout will equip you with valuable work experience

in the Information Technology and Computer Science sectors at top U.S companies and help

you establish a successful career base. Not only will you develop practical applications in real

business settings, you will improve your technical English skills, gain valuable insight into new

programs and technology, and directly benefit a U.S. company.

Positions

Internships are available in IT, Programming, Software Engineering, Web Design, Front and

Back-end Development, Database Management and many other specialties. Programs are

available year-round; U.S. locations vary but may center around IT hubs such as Silicon Valley,

California.

Duration

3 to 12 months

Cost of Living



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Architecture Internship Program – Advances in the field of architecture are occurring

exponentially, and fundamental skills and knowledge in design, construction, and building

interpretation is at the forefront of most university architecture curriculums. InternScout’s

Architecture Internship Program is designed for students, graduates and young professionals

from all over the world who want to gain behind-the-scences experience at a U.S. architecture

firm and learn about American design and construction standards. Some programs also include

LEED certification – an internationally recognized green building certification granted to

architects.

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) was developed by the U.S. Green

Building Council and provides practical and measurable green building design, construction,

operations and maintenance solutions to help transform the built environment to sustainability.

LEED is internationally recognized and projects are in progress and being promoted in 42

countries, such as Germany, Norway, Italy, Spain, Canada, Mexico and Brazil. For more

information on LEED visit: www.usgbc.org/LEED

Positions

Possible internships include: Architecture, Strategic Planning, Urban Planning, Regional

Planning, Industrial Design, Interior Design and Civil Engineering. Internships are available

year-round. U.S. locations vary.

Duration

6 to 12 months

Cost of Living



http://www.usgbc.org/LEED

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Aviation Internship Program – The aviation industry plays a vital role in global business.

Companies and governments are defined by and depend on transportation – and the future is in

aviation. With people and companies becoming increasingly dependant on the aerospace

industry, the need for qualified interns in this sector has never been greater. An internship with

an airline, airport, airplane supplier, or manufacturer is a great way to gain practical experience

in your dream career.

With our network of companies, InternScout’s Aviation Internship Program will provide you

opportunity to work alongside skilled leading professionals in their field and benefit from the

experience they can offer.

Positions

Possible internships include: Airport Administration, Airport Operations, Airplane Maintenance,

Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace

Engineering and Research & Development. Internships are available year-round. U.S.

locations vary.

Duration

3 to 12 months

Cost of Living



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Green Internship Program – More and more industries are “going green” in an effort to

minimize their eco-footprint, promote environmental stewardship, and more effectively manage

and use local resources. You do not need to be an Environmental Studies student to take

advantage of the benefits that our Green Internship Program can offer.

Skills and practical experience at green U.S. companies are becoming highly valued due to the

rapid growth and awareness of environmental issues. InternScout will help you stay ahead of

the curve, regardless of your field of study! Our Green Internship Program will give you an eco-

friendly edge of your resume or CV.

Positions

Internships are available in all fields including, but not limited to, Architecture, Business

Administration, Marketing, Public Relations, Finance, and Engineering and are available year-

round and in various locations. Internships at NGOs (Non-governmental organizations)

focusing on environmental policy and research may also be available; please contact

InternScout for more details.

Duration

1 to 12 months

Cost of Living



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Non-Profit Internship Program – If you are interested in philanthropy and making a difference

in the world, InternScout’s Non-Profit Internship Program may be exactly what you’re looking

for. Our program focuses on service over business and provides useful skills to dedicated and

highly motivated applicants.

Non-Profit Organizations (also known as not-for-profit, or NPO) include charities/charitable

organizations, trade unions, trade associations, faith based organizations, community

organizations, and public art associations. Generally, NPOs assist needy or disadvantaged

people, serve the interest of a particular action or issue, or are made-up of individuals with a

common goal or pursuit.

Positions

Internships are available in a variety of fields, including: Public Relations, Marketing, Non-Profit

Management, Fundraising, Event Coordination, Social Media, Web Design, Business

Development, Finance, and Human Resources. Internships are available year-round and in

various locations.

Duration

3 to 12 months

Cost of Living



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IV. J-1 Visa Information

U.S. Department of State regulations state that all foreign nationals wishing to participate in an internship at a U.S. company must enter on a J-1 Visa (http://www.ds2019.com).

The purpose of the J-1 visa is to ensure that international interns are provided with legitimate opportunities for professional development, insight into American knowledge and skills, and a deeper understanding of American business and culture.

After your internship placement is confirmed, InternScout will connect you with our partner visa agency, the German American Chamber of Commerce California to assist you in obtaining the DS-2019 needed to receive the J-1 visa.

The J-1 Visa Program provided by the German American Chamber of Commerce California

includes:

High J-1 visa approval rate

Competent & knowledgeable staff

Up-to-date information on U.S.

Department of State visa regulations

J-1 Visa Eligibility

U.S. Department of State regulations state that an intern must be a foreign national who is

currently enrolled in and pursuing studies at a degree or certificate granting post-secondary

academic institution (i.e. university, college, trade school), OR has graduated from such an

institution no more than 12 months prior to the start of the internship program.

DS-2019 Form

In order to obtain the J-1 visa, a foreign intern must have a DS-2019 form (Certificate of

Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status in the United States). The J-1 Visa Program provided by

the German American Chamber of Commerce California will assist you in obtaining the DS-

2019 needed to receive the J-1 visa at your home country U.S. embassy or consulate.

InternScout will assist you in making the J-1 visa process as easy as possible; however it is

important that you have the following items readily available:

Resume/CV detailing your education and work experience

Valid Passport

Copies of any current or previous visas to the U.S.

Proof of your post-secondary school enrollment (i.e. university or college) or proof of

recent graduation (in English)


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V. Application Process

Once you have decided to proceed with an internship program provided by InternScout, our

engaged and experienced staff will work with you every step of the way to ensure you are

completely satisfied; our service does not stop after we have placed you! We are, and will

remain, your partner during your stay in the United States.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Send us your resume/CV for free screening and customized feedback!

2. Complete and send us your registration documents (preferably 4-6 months prior

to desired internship start date)

3. Receive an application packet from InternScout, including sample resumes,

cover letters, and free access to our video application software CVOne (if you

wish to create a video resume for our network of companies)

4. InternScout informs you when you receive interview requests and provides you

with further information about potential U.S. companies

5. InternScout coordinates and schedules phone or webcam interviews between

you and potential U.S. companies and prepares you for the interviews

6. Interview with the companies that interest you

7. InternScout informs you which companies want you as an intern and you decide

which internship is right for you. InternScout informs company of your decision.

8. InternScout prepares internship contract between you and the company and

assists you with preparations for life in the United States, setting up

accommodation, and health insurance recommendations.

9. InternScout forwards your application to our visa sponsor partner for assistance

in securing the J-1 visa and issuance of the required DS-2019 form

10. InternScout stays in touch with you during and after your internship to provide on-

going guidance and support

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VI. Fees & Refunds

The program fees for InternScout’s placement program are $1995 USD* and include the following

services:

InternScout Application Packet (program information, sample resumes and cover letters)

CVOne video resume account

Guidance, review, and assistance with your resume, cover letter, and application materials

Research and securing of suitable host companies and positions based on your preferences

Coordination and preparation for the phone or webcam interviews

Signing of the internship contract between you and company

J-1 Visa Service and issuance of the DS-2019 Form

Assistance with accommodation, transportation, and health insurance

On-going support throughout the duration of your internship

Program Certificate at the end of your internship

Your Commitment - Our Guarantee

A 25% deposit of the program fees will be requested by invoice once we receive your program

registration documents. The deposit at the beginning of the process ensures genuine interest and

motivation and allows us to proceed with your application. If you change your mind, you are welcome to

cancel your application within 7 days of submitting your Program Registration documents and will receive

a full refund of any fees paid to InternScout.

*Please note: Housing, transportation, and health insurance are not included in our program fees. Applicants are

responsible for these fees as well as any personal expenses incurred while in the United States.

InternScout accepts payment by check, money order, wire transfer, or PayPal and has U.S. and

European bank accounts available for your convenience. Specific details regarding payment instructions

will included with your invoice.

J-1 Visa Service

Visa assistance for InternScout is provided by the J-1 Visa Program of the German American Chamber of

Commerce California (GACCCA). Unless otherwise agreed upon in writing, your J-1 visa to the United

Stares will be processed by GACCCA. Please see page 15 for specific details.

More information is available at http://www.ds2019.com.

Refunds

A full refund, minus a $95 USD application fee, will be granted if InternScout is unsuccessful in securing

an internship placement.

A full refund, minus a 25% placement processing fee, will be granted if the applicant cancels their

application at any time before the internship is confirmed and the internship contract is signed.

No refund will be granted if the applicant is confirmed for an internship and chooses not to participate in

the program after the internship contract is signed.


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VII. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long will it take for InternScout to locate my internship?

InternScout will begin the process of locating potential U.S. companies ideally suited for you as

soon as we receive your registration documents and payment. We recommend beginning this

process at least 3 to 4 months before your desired internship start date – this will allow us

enough time to locate potential companies, coordinate the interviews, confirm the placement,

and assist you in obtaining the J-1 visa. This will also allow you enough time to secure housing

and transportation for your arrival in the U.S.

Will my internship be paid?

Because internships are generally considered a learning experience, many are unpaid; however

this depends on the company. Some companies may also provide housing or transportation

instead of a monetary stipend; however this is not the norm. When you register with

InternScout you can specify with your program coordinator if you would prefer a paid or unpaid

program; however we will not limit your offers only to paid internships.

In which cities and states can I be placed?

You will be placed according to your indicated program, personal requests, as well as the

location of the U.S. company. You will be allowed to make the final choice of the company and

location of your preference based on your available internship offers.

Do I need to be fluent in English?

Fluency is not required; however your English ability should be intermediate to advanced. You

must be able to follow instruction during the internship and perform the required tasks without

requiring translation into your native language. You should be able to speak basic

(conversational) English with ease.

When will I know more information about my internship and U.S. company?

When your application is selected for interviews we will provide you with information about the

company and internship specifics to prepare you. Unfortunately, we cannot provide you with

information about a particular company or position before that time.

How long does the internship last?

Some internships can be as short as one month, however most last between 3-12 months. The

more flexible you are, the better your chances!

Does InternScout provide housing or transportation during my internship?

While we do not have a housing or transportation service, we are happy to assist you with

accommodation and transportation options in your city, state, or region and provide you with

detailed information.

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VIII. Registration Information

To begin the application process, please complete and send back the InternScout registration

documents (duly signed) by email or fax. We can also accept documents by post; however fax

or email is preferred and recommended.

Before signing the registration forms, please ensure your personal information is accurate.

Please contact us if you have any questions.

InternScout, Inc.

1620 Fifth Avenue, Suite 575

San Diego, CA 92101

USA

U.S. Telephone. (+1) 619-795-3280

Within Europe: (+49) 341-2252032

Fax: (+1) 619-795-8360

Email: [email protected]

Skype: internscout

Follow Us:

twitter.com/internscout

facebook.com/internscout

linkedin.com/company/internscout

mailto:[email protected]

http://twitter.com/internscout

The U.S. Internship Guide

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