FAQs

“I got to live on my own and make some amazing friends from America and around the world. And it was pretty easy to find work that was fun.” Ann from Melbourne worked at Victoria’s Secret in Miami, Florida.

Q: Do I have to be a student?
A: To be eligible for Work USA you must be a current tertiary student who has completed at least your first year of study, a recently deferred student who has completed at least one year of study, or a recent tertiary graduate (within the last 12 months). Graduating students are welcome to apply!

Q: What’s the age eligibility?
A: You need to be over 18, but there’s no upper age limit.

Q: What visa will I travel on?
A: All participants must have a current, valid Exchange Visitor Visa (J-1) before entering the USA.  The program sponsor IENA provides applicants with the visa application form – DS-2019; a process which IEP Australia fully facilitates!

Q: Do I arrange a job before I go, or do I get one when I get there?
A: IEP strongly recommends lining up work before leaving Australia and can offer online job assistance through the Work USA members’ lounge. You can work in a position that is related to your studies, or get a holiday job to fund your travels - the choice is yours!

Q: When can I leave for the USA?
A: The Work USA program runs all year round, so you can leave at any time. Work USA Old School runs during your Christmas holidays usually between November and February

Q: What is the average price for accommodation?
A: Rents vary greatly depending on where in the USA you’re living (and how posh you are) - from $50 to $200 per week is a rough guide. Some of the larger cities will be more expensive and obviously if you can get subsidised staff accommodation you’ll be paying less.

Q: What if something goes wrong?
A: IEP’s partner in the USA, BUNAC, offers continued support to all IEP members through a 24 hour emergency contact and a free nationwide number during office hours.

Q: What kind of jobs can I do and where?
A: You can do almost any job, anywhere in the USA - with the exception of au pair, medical intern, nurse and camp counsellor. If you are interested in Summer Camp USA, please contact IEP for further information.

Q: Can I bring a friend?
A: Yes. Many of our participants join the program with friends and secure work and housing in the USA together. Many people also join IEP by themselves and meet people through the program. Either way there is whole world out there, full of new people to meet!

Q: How much money will I earn?
A: Most of our participants earn enough money to cover the cost of their trip, with some even managing to bring home some extra cash. Obviously it will depend on how much you work and how much you play! Casual pay rates range from $6-$12 per hour depending on your position, experience and location. If you work in the service industry you will probably also receive tips which will significantly supplement your wage (approximately 10-15% of the bill). Many employers also offer staff perks such as free or discounted housing, meals, end of season bonuses and other benefits.