Some of our most frequently asked questions are answered below. If you have additional questions, please contact us at gcl@aipt.org
Q: Is the GCL internship a paid internship?
A: No. Every GCL internship is an unpaid work experience
Q: When is the deadline to apply for a GCL internship?
A: The deadline for application is January 29, 2010. We strongly encourage you to apply sooner, as it will give you the best chance to be accepted for an internship.
Q: What kind of visa do I need and how do I get it?
A: You are required to obtain a J-1 visa to participate in the GCL program. AIPT is designated by the US Department of State as a sponsor for the J-1 visa, and AIPT will provide you with the documentation, guidance, and support necessary to obtain the visa. It is your responsibility to pay the visa fee to the United States Consulate.
Q: How exactly does AIPT help me obtain a J-1 Visa?
A: AIPT is designated by the U.S. Department of State to sponsor J-1 visas. Once accepted into the GCL program, AIPT will issue you a DS-2019, the document needed to apply for a J-1 visa. Once you receive this document, you may then apply for the visa at your nearby US consulate, and bring the DS-2019 with you. It is your responsibility to pay the visa fee and make the visa interview appointment. Being accepted for an internship does not guarantee the U.S. Government will issue you a J-1 visa. If you are declined a J-1 visa, AIPT will refund all of your program payments.
Q: When should I apply for the Visa?
A: AIPT will issue the DS-2019 form in mid-March and you should schedule your visa appointment by the end of March. You are responsible to scheduling your own visa interview at a U.S. Consulate. It can take anywhere between 2 days and 4 weeks to obtain an appointment, so we recommend you stay updated on the current visa appointment wait times at your nearby U.S. Consulate.
Q: What if I pay the program fee and I cannot come because of a family emergency or my visa is denied?
A: The GCL refund policy is as follows:
- Cancel between March 26 and April 2: 50% refund of program fee minus deposit
- Cancel between April 3 and April 9: 25% refund of program fee minus deposit
- No refund available after April 9
- The deposit is non-refundable*
* In case of Visa denial by the U.S. Consulate, all payments will be returned minus a $100 administrative fee. Proof of visa denial from the U.S. Consulate required (either letter of denial or denial stamp in passport).
Q: What if I don’t like my internship once the job begins? Can I change employers?
A: Once you begin your internship, it is not possible to change host employers. Securing internships for GCL students can take months, and it is nearly impossible to make any changes once you have accepted the position. We strongly encourage you to complete your internship with your host employer.
Q: What is included in the program?
A: The GCL program includes:
- A six week internship
- Guaranteed J-1 visa sponsorship and support by AIPT (actual visa cost not included)
- Welcome orientation
- City Tour
- Accommodations at local university
- Several group activities
- Public transportation (bus and or rail) for the entire program
- Medical insurance
- Closing reception
- Certificate of Completion
- Recommendation letter from AIPT
- Dedicated staff support in-city
Q: What is the selection process?
A: Please see Application and Selection Process
Q: Can I make my own housing and transportation plans and take these arrangements out of the cost?
A: No GCL is all-inclusive program and we cannot make exceptions.
Q: What type of in-country support can I expect?
A: You are provided with the support necessary to succeed and be comfortable living and working in a new country. We will show you how to use the public transportation system, how to arrive to your internship, and provide you up with a comfortable living situation. There will be one AIPT Program Coordinator in each city for the duration of your internship. This person will be available to help you learn about your new city, new culture, and answer any questions you may have during your six weeks. Global Career Launch staff provides you with everything necessary to make your experience a success.
Q: What kind of cultural and social activities can I expect?
A: Every GCL city offers unique and wonderful options, and the cultural activities of the program vary to take advantage of each city’s exciting culture. Previous activities have included Major League Baseball games, group dinners, city tours, amusement parks, wine tasting tours, happy hours, lunch boat cruises, and trips to nearby cities. You can expect up to three group cultural activities included in the program. This will leave you with some weekends for free time to explore other parts of your city or the country.
Q: What are the working hours for a GCL internship?
A: Typical working hours are Monday – Friday, 35-40 hours per week between the hours of 8am and 6pm. Some internships may have different hours depending on the nature of the duties assigned. For example, you may work earlier in the morning or later at night in the hospitality business. You will not be working more than 40 hours per week.
Q: Who can apply for a GCL internship?
A: Please see our Eligibility Page for more information
Q: When do we make our acceptance decisions?
A: Final decisions are made by February 26, 2010, however we begin accepting participants prior to the final decision date.
Q: Are the dates of the program flexible?
A: No. Your internships and housing are set for the dates of your internship program. If you would like to arrive earlier or leave later than your program dates, you may do so provided you are within the regulations of your visa.
Q: Is attendance mandatory at everything?
A: You are absolutely required to attend your internship for every day of the program. If you must take time off, it is your responsibility to obtain permission from your supervisor.
Attendance for planned weekend excursions and cultural events is completely optional. If you would rather spend your free time traveling or independently exploring your host city you are welcome to do so.
Q: Will I have a roommate?
A: Yes. You will have at least one roommate on the program.
Q: Will I have internet available in the housing?
A: Housing options do provide computer access on campus, however we cannot guarantee wireless internet service.
Q: Will I have phone service?
A: You will not have any phone service in your residence. If you would like to purchase a mobile phone, we recommend a “pay as you go” phone. These phones are inexpensive and you will only pay for the minutes you use.