IAESTE Potential Employer Frequently Asked Questions
- What is IAESTE?
The International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Experience is an
international network of exchange organizations that facilitate international technical
internship exchange.
- What is IAESTE United States?
IAESTE United States is a program of the Association for International Practical Training (AIPT),
a non-profit exchange organization based in Columbia, Maryland. IAESTE United States represents
the U.S. in IAESTE international.
- What are the program fees?
| Program Length |
University Program Fee |
Industry Program Fee |
| 0-3 months |
$600 |
$800 |
| 4-6 months |
$950 |
$1250 |
| 7-12 months |
$1300 |
$1750 |
- What is the minimum salary?
$300 per week or enough to cover the cost of living. Keep in mind that $300 is a rough national average
and that in some areas the cost of living may be higher. IAESTE interns are motivated by the experience
to train in the U.S. but they must be able to cover their costs (room, board, etc.) during their training.
- What about insurance?
All students arrive fully insured.
- What about housing?
The local chapter of IAESTE will assist you and the intern in locating appropriate housing.
- What about taxes?
Interns are responsible for all federal, state, and local taxes with the exception of
Social Security and Federal Unemployment taxes.
- How long has IAESTE been operating?
IAESTE United States was established at MIT in 1950.
- How many countries are in the IAESTE network?
The number is constantly changing, but currently there are more than 80.
Approximately 30,000 students apply to IAESTE worldwide.
- What is your interest in this program?
Each job raised in the U.S. for an international student provides the opportunity for a US student
to go abroad for an internship.
- If this person arrives and does not work out, am I obligated to keep him/her?
No. We do request that you do everything possible to make the arrangement satisfactory,
but if it just is not working, you may terminate employment.
- What is my legal responsibility?
As the legal sponsor, IAESTE United States/AIPT assumes responsibility for your interns
while they are in the United States, with respect to the J-1 visa and immigration matters.
AIPT/IAESTE United States is designated by the Department of State to issue J-1 visa documentation.
As a host employer, you are responsible for keeping IAESTE informed of any changes in the program
or important developments.
- What activities do I have to plan with the interns?
We always recommend a company to keep the interests of the student in mind, such as company picnics
or sporting events, but it is not a requirement. The LC will be responsible for coordinating social
activities.
- Why should I hire an international student when I can benefit a US student?
By providing placement for an international intern, you are helping a US student due to the
reciprocity of this program.
- I can't host an intern, so how else can I get involved?
Companies can support IAESTE United States activities, and non-students can even join as
professional members. See the Industry Relations Brochure for more info.