Intern in the US – Stand Out at Home
Starting at CAD $485

Affordable internships with real career impact

If you're looking to gain real-world experience and take your career to the next level, our BridgeUSA J-1 Internship program is your gateway. Our paid internships place Canadian students with leading U.S. businesses, giving you hands-on skills, professional connections, and résumé-building experience that sets you apart.

And while you’re building your career, you’ll also have the chance to explore everything the U.S. has to offer — from its dynamic workplaces to its vibrant cities and breathtaking landscapes.

Canadian students - why just study or travel, when you can intern in the U.S.?

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Jump-start Your Career

Develop professionally

Gain hands-on experience in your field while working with leading U.S. companies across various industries – a powerful boost to your résumé. 

A true cultural exchange

Expand your professional network and form lasting relationships with colleagues and peers in the U.S. These connections can open doors to future opportunities on both sides of the border.

Unlock Opportunities

Showcasing U.S. internship experience signals adaptability, ambition, and initiative — qualities that employers everywhere are looking for. It’s a proven way to transform your employability and take your career further.  

Competitive and affordable

Our program is designed to minimize costs and provide helpful, human support through the application process, making it easier for you to pursue your career ambitions in the U.S. 

The perfect partnership

Helping you to access the right opportunity

Our intern program is for full time students at colleges and universities, or recent graduates, within 12 months of graduation. We’ll help hook you up with paid internships in your field of study - like hospitality, business, marketing or tech, depending on your skills and goals.

Application Steps   

  • Sign up using the form below.

  • We’ll review your form submission. If you meet the eligibility criteria, you’ll receive an email inviting you to start your application in our ‘Beacon’ system.

  • Once you submit your application, we’ll send you a payment link for your initial CAD $150 deposit.

  • We’ll 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 Internship in the U.S.

Real Interns, Real Stories

  • Naomi M. (Kenya), Culinary Internship, Savannah, Georgia

    “My time in America during my internship was truly one of the most memorable and transformative experiences of my life. I had the opportunity to work with professionals who not only guided me but also encouraged my growth every step of the way. I gained valuable hands-on experience, improved my communication skills, and learned the importance of teamwork in a professional setting.

    CIEE’s support throughout the process made everything smooth and enjoyable. Because of CIEE, I was able to step out of my comfort zone and into a world of possibilities. I will forever be grateful for the experience, the growth, and the unforgettable memories.”

  • Juan S. (France), STEM internship, Mountain View, California

    “When I think about my time in the United States through CIEE, I don’t just remember the science, the nature, the incredible colleagues, or the vibrant Californian lifestyle. What truly defined this experience for me was the perfect balance between professional growth, meaningful human connection, and unexpected moments that became lifelong memories.

    This journey gave me more than skills. It gave me stories, connections, and a renewed sense of gratitude. I came to the U.S. to grow as a professional, and I’m leaving with something even more valuable: memories I’ll carry with me forever.”

  • Zandile M. (South Africa), Hospitality Intern, Deer Valley, Utah

    “My CIEE BridgeUSA internship took me all the way from South Africa to the snowy mountains of Utah. I worked across several departments and gained hands-on experience in a five-star hospitality environment. Thanks to this internship, I’ve returned home with valuable skills, unforgettable memories, and a clear vision for my future. Thank you, CIEE, for giving me this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!”

  • Alizee G. (France), STEM internship, Morton Grove, Illinois

    “This internship hasn’t only helped me improve my English and discover American culture – it’s also brought amazing people into my life. Whether it’s my colleagues at work or my roommates at home, I’ve met so many different personalities, each of them teaching me something valuable and new. I’ll return home changed: more confident, more open-minded, incredibly grateful. Thank you, CIEE, for making this unforgettable experience possible.”

Intern Eligibility

Check your eligibility then apply!

There are a few requirements you must meet if you want to access an internship in the U.S for Canadian students. Internships are for students studying full time at colleges and universities in Canada or recent graduates, within 12 months of graduation.

  • Be a full-time student studying at a Canadian college or university or a recent graduate, within 12 months of graduation

  • Be at least in your first year of college or university studies

  • Be aged 18-30 on the date you enter the U.S.

  • Your passport must be in pristine condition. If your passport is torn or damaged in any way you will need to apply for a new one.

  • Your passport must be valid for the full duration of your program and ideally be valid for a further six months from when you return from the U.S.

  • Be able to show proof of required support funds, USD $1,500, when clearing U.S. Immigration

Apply Today

Intern Cost

Manage your application for only CAD $485 for 3-month Internship plus a placement fee | deposit CAD $150

Interested in a program with longer duration? Contact us for more information.

Why Book with CIEE?  

  • We’re the experts! 50+ years’ experience facilitating international exchange for Interns through the J-1 Visa

  • Premium internship placement opportunities with world-leading companies through our Internship Search portal

  • Full transparency with our pricing, no surprises, and clear value (we’re very competitive too).

  • Sensitive, human support every step of the way. You’re going away for up to 12 months and that’s huge! So, we’re on hand to help.

What’s included?  

  • J-1 Visa application processing

  • DS-2019 – your Legal Work Authorization 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 in the U.S.

    **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 placement in the U.S. – but don’t worry, for an extra CAD $690 we can help you source the right position for you!

  • Flights to the U.S.

  • 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.

Sign up Today

Apply in minutes – our team will guide you every step of the way.

Your internship awaits…

1. Apply Online – Fill out a quick form to get started.

2. Get Approved – We’ll review your info and send next steps.

3. Secure Your Spot – Pay your deposit and schedule a short interview.

Frequently Asked Questions

Curious about the BridgeUSA Intern Program?

You're in the right place. We’ve answered the most common questions asked by applicants just like you. If you can’t find the answer to your questions below, drop us a message or book a call.

  • BridgeUSA Intern program allows full-time university students and recent graduates from Canada to complete structured internships in the U.S.  that align with their field of study.

    It’s an opportunity to gain practical, résumé-building experience, develop career-ready skills, and experience life in the U.S. while preparing for your future in a global job market.

  • You can intern for up to 12 months under the J-1 Intern visa. You’ll also have a 30-day travel grace period after your internship ends to explore the U.S.

  • Yes, CIEE can help you source an internship through our Job Portal for an additional placement fee of CAD $690. CIEE will guide you through the process, help ensure your internship meets J-1 visa requirements and provide full support from application to arrival.

  • No - Canadians are exempt from applying for the visa at a U.S. consulate. Instead, once CIEE issues a DS-2019 form and SEVIS fee is paid, Canadians can go directly to the U.S. Port of Entry with their documents.

  • The DS-2019 form is your official Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status. You need this document to enter the U.S. as proof of your J-1 status. CIEE will provide it to you, once you're hired and your program fees are paid.

  • SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) is the US government’s system to track visa holders. A USD $220 SEVIS fee is included in your program cost and must be paid before your embassy interview.

  • Yes, but you will need the J-1 Intern visa. CIEE is a U.S. State Department–designated visa sponsor, which means we provide the documentation you need to book a U.S. Embassy appointment in Canada and apply.

  • It’s best to apply at least two to three months before your internship start date, especially to allow time for visa processing and travel plans.

Apply