J-1 Academic Training (AT)
Working without ISSO authorization is a violation of your J-1 status. Always consult ISSO before accepting employment.
Academic Training (AT) allows J-1 BU students to engage in off-campus work or training, either paid or unpaid, directly related to their field of study and program objectives. It can occur before or after program completion. If your DS-2019 is from a third-party sponsor, contact them for AT authorization.
Eligibility
To be eligible for Academic Training, J-1 students must:
- Be in valid J-1 student status primarily for study.
- AT must relate to your major and J-1 objectives; at least 60% of work must be on-site.
- Maintain good academic standing at BU.
- Obtain prior written ISSO authorization before starting AT. You cannot legally work without this.
- Non-degree exchange students qualify only for post-completion AT that meets their home institution’s objectives.
Duration Limits
- Maximum 18 months total AT (or equal to your study duration if under 18 months), except for additional time needed to meet degree requirements.
- Postdoctoral training allows up to 36 months total AT, granted in up to 18-month increments.
Application Process
- Apply for AT through ISSOPortal before starting employment with a job offer letter specifying the role, location, dates, and salary (if post-completion).
- Changes in employer, location, or dates require reapplication.
- Separate applications needed for concurrent jobs; ISSO approves the total number of jobs.
Post-Completion AT
- Apply preferably before program end; can apply during 30-day grace period post-completion but must stay in the U.S. until approved.
- AT start date can be later than grace period end if justified; however, AT time counts from program completion date.
- New DS-2019 issued for post-completion AT; proof of financial support needed if unpaid or insufficiently paid.
- Must maintain J-1 health insurance during AT.
Academic Training Evaluation
All J-1 students on Academic Training must submit an Academic Training (AT) Evaluation request in the ISSOPortal when changing employers and at AT completion to evaluate effectiveness.