Trainee Overseas Placements in the USA – Starting at €659
Level up your career with a United States trainee placement
Our trainee overseas placements are designed for young professionals with at least 12 months’ experience in your field since graduating university. The J-1 BridgeUSA Trainee Program is your key to unlocking 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 Irish graduates with a taste of American working life. Our overseas trainee placements vary in length from three to 18 months. Plus, you’ll get an extra 30 days after your program to explore the U.S.A.’s unforgettable places and landscapes.
If you’re a current student or recent graduate – within 12 months of graduating university, take a look at our J-1 BridgeUSA Intern, J-1 Summer Work Travel, or Summer Camp program.
Train. Travel. Transform.
Take a bold step forward and open the door to new opportunities by training in the U.S. You’ll enhance your skills, develop your expertise, and gain global insights that will help advance your career in today’s competitive marketplace.
A competitive edge
The experience you’ll gain in an international market will change your perspective, a perspective that your peers at home won’t have. No matter what your industry is – this will give your CV a competitive edge for the foreseeable future.
Learn a new culture
By immersing yourself in an overseas trainee 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 program 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
Train in the USA. Stand out everywhere else.
You’ve secured your trainee program in the U.S.A. – 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 program is built for Irish 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 €99.
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 U.S. 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 U.S..
Trainee Eligibility
First step: eligibility. Next step: the USA
This isn’t just another international placement, it’s your launchpad. Work experience in the U.S., through our trainee program, 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 Program 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 Program, we ask that you meet the following requirements:
More than one year post graduation from a full-time academic program of study at a recognised third level university or college in Ireland or the UK,
ANDOne year of professional work experience directly related to your field of study
OR
Five years of related professional work experience acquired outside the U.S.A.
Trainee Cost
Manage your application for only €1,299 for 14 months plus €250 placement fee | deposit €99
Sourcing placements in America for Irish students is what we do. We know the ins and outs of the process with over 50 years of experience. We’re also a non-profit, not a business, which means we’re out to help you find the right opportunity in the U.S.A. and an experience to shape your future.
| Duration | Cost |
|---|---|
| 0-3 months | €659 |
| 4 months | €699 |
| 5 months | €759 |
| 6 months | €799 |
| 7 months | €899 |
| 8 months | €959 |
| 9 months | €999 |
| 10 months | €1,099 |
| 11 months | €1,159 |
| Duration | Cost |
|---|---|
| 12 months | €1,199 |
| 13 months | €1,259 |
| 14 months | €1,299 |
| 15 months | €1,359 |
| 16 months | €1,399 |
| 17 months | €1,459 |
| 18 months | €1,499 |
| 19 months | €1,599 |
| 20 months | €1,699 |
Please note, if you are applying for the Trainee Program, Hospitality & Tourism training programs cannot exceed 12 months. Business Management programs, like Sales/Marketing or Finance, at hotels or restaurants may be allowed for up to 18 months and will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
What’s included?
J-1 Visa Application processing
DS-2019 – your Legal Work Authorisation papers
Emergency Medical Insurance Cover for the duration of your stay in the U.S.**
SEVIS fee
Pre-departure 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 U.S. 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/traineeship placement in the US – but don’t worry, for an extra €250 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 U.S. Embassy before booking your flights… just in case.
U.S. Embassy Interview Fee – The fee is USD $185 and is paid directly to the U.S. Embassy when you book your appointment.
Your support funds – you must have a minimum of USD $1,500 when entering the U.S. You may be asked to show proof of this when going through U.S. Immigration, and we recommend you bring a copy of your bank statement to show you have access to these funds.
Your USA traineeship is your competitive advantage
Get started on your application
With CIEE, the process to secure your American trainee program is simple and supported. Follow the steps below to start the process.
Enquire Now
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 €99.
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 U.S. 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 traineeship in the U.S.