There are hundreds of Colombians who decide to study and live in the United States for several important reasons, of which the quality and prestige of higher education in the North American country stands out, since it offers academic programs in practically all areas of knowledge.
Added to this is that several American universities are frequently at the top of international rankings, which attracts students in search of academic excellence.
Another reason is the possibility of accessing cutting-edge research opportunities, advanced technological resources and libraries with vast resources, which in many cases are not available in Colombia.
The United States Embassy in Colombia shared information about visas for the program Summer Work and Travel, which allows nationals to access a temporary permit to live, work and even undergo educational training, while they immerse themselves in American life and culture.
The North American consulate specified that to opt for the J1 visa and participate in the program, interested students must meet the following requirements:
◉ Be full-time students enrolled in a university.
◉ Classes must be in person and not virtual.
◉ You must demonstrate command of the English language, since the interview will be in that language.
◉ You must intend to leave the United States once the program ends.
Likewise, the embassy added some aspects to keep in mind when the student has to present the visa interview, which are:
◉ Bring your passport and the DS-2019 format.
◉ Proof of student enrollment.
“You must be honest and communicative. When you are in the United States, make sure you meet the visa requirements. Do not stay longer than allowed.
Evita carries out unauthorized activities during your stay in the United States, the embassy added.
Likewise, he added that failure to comply with visa requirements, providing false statements or presenting non-original documents and/or credentials from universities can lead not only to a denial of the visa, but also to long-term difficulties. deadline to obtain it later.
Among the benefits that interested students can obtain, the website of BridgeUSa, highlighted the following:
◉ School credit: Undergraduates may participate in degree-granting programs until completion or in non-degree-granting programs for no more than 24 months.
◉ Empleo: Students may work part-time under certain conditions, including good academic performance at their host institution.
◉ Academic training: Students may participate in academic training with or without salary or other remuneration during their studies, with the approval of the dean or academic advisor and the responsible official of their sponsoring organization.
To participate, Colombians will be able to detail and access by entering some of the following links: BridgeUSA y Exchange Visitor Visa. Additionally, you will find more information about the program on the embassy website co.usembassy.gov or by email at [email protected].
What is the DS-2019 format
Form DS-2019 or Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status (J-1) is the basic document used by the North American administration for the exchange visitor program.
According to authorities, the form allows a potential exchange visitor to request an interview at a US embassy or consulate, to obtain a J visa and enter the United States.
Among the documents that the student must present is the completion of the DS-2019 format – Freepik credit
Additionally, Form DS-2019 identifies the exchange visitor and their designated sponsor and provides a brief description of the exchange visitor program, including the start and end date, the category of the exchange, and an estimate of the cost of the exchange program.
To obtain the form, the interested Colombian must enter the following link: presentar la solicitud. The website of BridgeUSa He specified that he must first complete the information before giving it to the student.
“Issuance of the J-1 visa, like all nonimmigrant visas, is at the discretion of consular officials who review visa applications at U.S. embassies and consulates.
This means that even if you are accepted into an exchange visitor program and have received your DS-2019, Consular Officers decide whether you receive the J-1 visa,” the portal added.
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