STEP-by-STEP Process
STEP 1: Check your Current DS-2019
Make sure your current DS-2019 has your proper degree and level of study (Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate). If it does not, contact us immediately.
STEP 2: Guidelines for Co-op/Internship
Do this step ONLY for students continuing on for the next semester: Review the guidelines your department, co-op coordinator, and major advisor (if a graduate student) have for internships and co-ops.
Doing an internship/co-op before you go back home? Continue to STEP 3.
STEP 3: Gather all Information Needed to Apply for AT
Letter or Email from employer on letterhead MUST include:
Name of Supervisor
Employer's Name
Employer's Address
Number of Hours Per Week
Training Begin Date
Training End Date
Job Duties
Here is an AT Letter Template for employers.
STEP 4: Complete the AT Training Information Form
Complete this form: Academic Training Request Form
STEP 5: Contact Internship Coordinator
If you are doing this for credit:
You and the co-op coordinator will get an email from the Ivanhoe International Center. Do the following:
Make an appointment with your internship coordinator and/or major advisor
Talk to the internship coordinator and/or major advisor about which Cooperative Education (CP) class you must register for:
Part-time (less than 20 hours a week): one credit of Cooperative Education (CP) classes;
Full-time (more than 20 hours a week): two (2) credits of Cooperative Education (CP) classes
Cooperative Education classes are required to comply with U.S. Government regulations. The class may or may not count towards your degree requirements. Talk to your advisor about this. Either way, as an international student, you are required to take these.
See this GUIDE to change the credits, if needed.
STEP 6: Register for CP Class
For students doing credit ONLY
Once you confirm which Cooperative Education (CP) class(es) to take, register for:
Part-time (less than 20 hours a week): one credit of Cooperative Education (CP) classes;
Full-time (more than 20 hours a week): two (2) credits of Cooperative Education (CP) classes
See this GUIDE to change the credits, if needed.
STEP 7: Email the Ivanhoe International Center
Once you have signed up for your cooperative program (CP) credits for the subsequent semester, EMAIL US.
STEP 8: Receive and Sign the DS-2019
Receive a new DS-2019 with the work authorization dates on page 2. Sign and UPLOAD HERE.
You cannot start working until you have this.
Keep in mind:
You can only work for the employer on the Academic Training Request form.
You can only work during the authorized dates on the Academic Training Request form
Social Security number: If you do not have one, you should apply for one now.
Let us know if you have questions.
STEP 9: Go to During and After AT Checklist
Make sure you maintain your J-status.
Go to the During and After AT Checklist for more information.