Trainee Overseas Work Placements in the USA - Starting at £1,599
Get one step ahead with a United States work placement
Our trainee overseas work placements are designed for young professionals, with at least 12 months experience in your field since graduating university. The J-1 Trainee Programme is your key to unlock a competitive edge for your CV – this isn’t just a job - it’s your chance to glow up professionally and personally.
We work with world- and industry-leading businesses, providing UK graduates with a taste of American working life. Our overseas work placements vary in length from three to 18 months.
If you’re a student or recent graduate – take a look at our internships or Summer Camp programmes.
Train. Travel. Transform.
The experience you’ll gain in an international market will change your perspective; perspective that your peers at home won’t have. No matter your industry – this will give your CV a competitive edge for the foreseeable future.
A competitive edge
The experience you’ll gain in an international market will change your perspective; perspective that your peers at home won’t have. No matter your industry – this will give your CV a competitive edge for the foreseeable future.
Learn a new culture
By immersing yourself in an overseas work placement, you’ll not only experience American culture, but also build a global network of future change-makers.
Career opportunities
Brave, adaptable, and employable – that’s what future employers will see when you showcase your global experience.
Affordable process
Our programme is designed to minimise costs and provide helpful, human support throughout the application process, making it easier for you to pursue your career ambitions in the United States.
Trainee Opportunities
Work in the USA. Stand out everywhere else.
You’ve secured your trainee programme in the USA - now it’s time to lock in the rest. Whether you're chasing an edge, seeking a unique experience, or both, we’re here to get you there smoothly.
This international programme is built for UK professionals, at least one year post-graduation who are ready to gain hands-on experience in an American workplace. If you’ve got your placement confirmed and know what industry you're diving into, you're already ahead of the game.
What’s next? A quick form, a few formalities, and then you’re on your way.
Application Steps
Register your application with us, using the form below.
We will then review your application submission. If you meet the eligibility criteria, you’ll make your initial deposit, the cost of which is £120
Once you’ve paid your deposit, you’ll receive an email inviting you to start your application in our ‘Beacon’ system. Take a look at our ‘how to’ guide for the steps you need to complete in your Beacon Application.
To meet visa requirements, we will set up a short phone interview as required by the US Department of State. The interview consists of a few questions to get a sense of what you hope to gain from your traineeship in the US.
Trainee Eligibility
First step: eligibility. Next step: the USA.
This isn’t just another international placement, it’s your launchpad. Work experience in the US, through our trainee programme, is the kind of move that stands out. On your CV. In interviews. In conversations that start with “Tell me something impressive about yourself.”
It’s not just about ticking a box. It’s proof that you’re bold enough to go further, and curious enough to grow outside your comfort zone.
The CIEE J-1 BridgeUSA Trainee Programme is how it happens. First thing’s first: let’s make sure you meet the criteria before we get you on your way. To qualify for the J-1 BridgeUSA Trainee Programme, we ask that you meet the following:
More than one year post graduation from a full-time academic program of study at a recognised third level university or college in the UK, AND
One year of professional work experience directly related to your field of study
OR
Five years of related professional work experience acquired outside the USA
Trainee Cost
Manage your application for only £1,599 for 14 months plus £300 placement fee | deposit £120
Sourcing placements in America for UK students is what we do. We know the ins and outs of the process – we’ve been doing it for long enough! We’re also a non-profit, not a business, which means we’re not out to make money, we’re out to help you find the right opportunity in the USA and an experience to shape your future.
| Duration | Cost |
|---|---|
| 0-3 months | £ 939 |
| 4 months | £ 999 |
| 5 months | £ 1,059 |
| 6 months | £ 1,179 |
| 7 months | £ 1,199 |
| 8 months | £ 1,239 |
| Duration | Cost |
|---|---|
| 9 months | £ 1,299 |
| 10 months | £ 1,359 |
| 11 months | £ 1,419 |
| 12 months | £ 1,479 |
| 13 months | £ 1,539 |
| 14 months | £ 1,599 |
What’s included?
J-1 Application processing
DS-2019 – your Legal Work Authorisation papers
Emergency Medical Insurance Cover for the duration of your stay in the US**
SEVIS fee
Pre-departure J-1 Orientation
Support from our expert team every step of the way – and our team on the ground for emergency support, once you’ve arrived stateside.
**The insurance covers your emergency medical expenses while in the US. We recommend you also take out a separate ‘Travel Insurance’ policy to cover you for things like cancellation and curtailment, personal belongings, legal costs, flight delays and more.
What’s Not Included?
Internship placement in the US – but don’t worry, for an extra £300 we can help you source the right position for you!
Flights to the US – we recommend you wait until your visa is approved by the US Embassy before booking your flights… just in case.
US Embassy Interview Fee – The fee is USD $185 and is paid directly to the US Embassy when you book your appointment.
Your support Funds – you must have a minimum of USD $1,500 when entering the US. You may be asked to show proof of this when going through US Immigration, and we recommend you bring a copy of your bank statement to show you have access to these funds.
Apply Today
Register your application with the form.
We will review your application submission. If you meet the eligibility criteria, we’ll send you a payment link for your initial deposit, the cost of which is £120
Once you’ve paid your deposit, you’ll receive an email inviting you to start your application in our ‘Beacon’ system. Please see our ‘how to’ guide for the steps you need to complete in your Beacon Application.
We will set up a short phone interview as required by the US Department of State – this is an essential step as part of your visa requirements. The interview consists of a few questions to get a sense of what you hope to gain from your summer in the US.
Your traineeship; your competitive edge
Get started on your application
With CIEE, the process to secure your American trainee programme is simple and supported. Follow the steps below to start the process.