Expand Internship Opportunities for Your Students

Since 1947, Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) has facilitated more than 1.1 million exchanges for students and young professionals around the globe. As the oldest and largest designated sponsor of the U.S. Department of State’s BridgeUSA Program (formerly known as the J-1 visa Exchange Visitor Program), we are proud to partner with Canadian universities, colleges, and educational institutions to create sustainable pathways for students to gain professional experience in the United States.

Whether you’re looking to provide individual students with access to paid internships or seeking to formalize a larger partnership, CIEE makes it simple, safe, and rewarding.

Partner with Us

Why Partner With CIEE?

  • Unlock Scholarships

    Make internships more accessible with CIEE’s cohort-based scholarship programs. Partner institutions placing 10 students with CIEE host employers receive funds to support program fees for students in need.

  • Credibility & Experience

    As the largest and oldest BridgeUSA J-1 Visa sponsor in the U.S., CIEE supports over 30,000 participants worldwide each year with unmatched expertise.

  • Placement Support

    We secure high-quality placements — often with Fortune 500 companies — and provide health insurance, monitoring, and 24/7 support so you can focus on the outcomes.

  • Career-Ready Graduates

    Your students return with real-world skills, professional experience aligned with their program of study, and global networks that give them a competitive edge.

Program Overview

CIEE BridgeUSA Intern

  • For current full-time students or recent graduates (within 1 year)

  • Internship in a field related to their studies or academic background

  • Duration: Up to 12 months (+1 month before and after for travel)

CIEE BridgeUSA Trainee

  • For recent alumni (at least 12 months post-graduation) or professionals looking for advanced training

  • Duration: Up to 18 months (+1 month before and after for travel)

The Value for Colleges and Universities

  • Enhance your portfolio of international opportunities with a U.S.-focused program.

  • Offer your students safe, structured, accessible and paid internships with trusted oversight.

  • Strengthen your institution’s reputation as a leader in global learning and career development.

  • Join a network of universities committed to building bridges between Canada and the United States.

How It Works

Contact CIEE

Work with CIEE to identify your internship placement needs, number of participants and timeline.

Submit Participant List

Share your student list with CIEE to begin the application process.

CIEE Placement Process

CIEE reviews applicants and sources suitable internship placements.

CIEE arranges interviews with U.S. host employers and facilitates offers. Once accepted, CIEE works with the host employer to finalize the training plan.

DS-2019 Form

After approval of the student’s application and training plan, CIEE issues the DS-2019 form, enabling U.S. entry for Canadian nationals or J-1 Visa application for International students.

Travel to United States

Students begin their U.S. internship and enjoy a life-changing experience!

Ready to Partner With Us?

Fill out this form to connect with our team and learn how your institution can participate in CIEE’s BridgeUSA Intern & Trainee programs.