Question 1

What exactly is Work & Travel USA?

Accepted Answer

It is a cultural exchange program regulated by the U.S. Department of State on a J-1 visa. Full-time university students spend their summer holiday living and working legally in the United States, then travel before heading home.

Question 2

How long does the program last?

Accepted Answer

You can work up to four months (roughly June to September, depending on your university calendar) plus up to 30 additional days of travel afterwards — around 4 to 5 months in total.

Question 3

Who is the sponsor and why does it matter?

Accepted Answer

Every J-1 participant needs a sponsor designated by the U.S. Department of State. Kouzon is an official representative of CIEE, InterExchange and GreenHeart — three established designated sponsors. The sponsor issues your DS-2019 form and supports you throughout the summer.

Question 4

Can I do the program more than once?

Accepted Answer

Yes. As long as you are still a full-time student and meet the eligibility rules, you can take part again the following summer — many of our students come back three or four times.

Question 5

Who can apply?

Accepted Answer

Full-time university students with at least intermediate conversational English, who intend to return home at the end of the program. Exact age and enrolment requirements are set by the sponsor — the Kouzon team confirms your eligibility on your first consultation.

Question 6

Do I have to visit an office?

Accepted Answer

No. You can complete the entire process 100% online from anywhere in Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro or Serbia — or visit a Kouzon office if you prefer meeting the team in person.

Question 7

How do interviews work?

Accepted Answer

Most employers interview by video call. Kouzon prepares you beforehand: typical questions, what employers look for, and how to present yourself confidently.

Question 8

Can I go with friends?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and many employers actively prefer hiring pairs or small groups. Tell your consultant early so we can look for offers with enough open places.

Question 9

How much can I earn?

Accepted Answer

Wages depend on the state, the employer and the role. Listings on this site show the exact hourly wage and guaranteed weekly hours offered by each employer. Tipped positions can earn considerably more than the base wage.

Question 10

Is housing included?

Accepted Answer

Many employers provide housing for a weekly fee, which is shown on every listing. Where housing is not provided, Kouzon and the sponsor help you find safe, verified accommodation before you fly.

Question 11

Can I have a second job?

Accepted Answer

In many cases yes, provided the second job is registered with your sponsor first. Never start work anywhere without your sponsor's approval.

Question 12

Can I find a job myself?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A self-sourced job offer is allowed as long as the U.S. partner verifies the employer and the position meets program rules.

Question 13

What does the program cost?

Accepted Answer

PLACEHOLDER — the 2026 program fee is to be confirmed by Kouzon. The fee typically covers the sponsor's program fee, DS-2019 issuance, SEVIS handling support, insurance for the duration of the program, job placement and 24/7 support.

Question 14

What is not included?

Accepted Answer

PLACEHOLDER — typically the flight, the U.S. embassy visa fee, the SEVIS fee, your own spending money and housing deposits. Final list to be confirmed by Kouzon for 2026.

Question 15

Can I pay in instalments?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Kouzon offers flexible payment plans with a deposit at registration and the remainder in instalments. PLACEHOLDER — exact amounts and dates to be confirmed.

Everything students ask us before they go

Your American summer starts with one conversation