St. Cloud State University believes that educational and cultural exchanges with people and institutions of higher learning in other countries increase global understanding both on its campus and within the community.

As such, the university has chosen to sponsor the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program and adheres to the regulations set forth by the Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961.

The BridgeUSA Exchange Visitor Program provides participants the opportunity to engage broadly with Americans, share their culture, strengthen their English language skills, and learn or enhance skills that will aid them in their future careers.

St. Cloud State University is approved to host exchange visitors under the following category:

Student Intern

• The primary purpose is to engage in a student internship program, rather than employment or providing services to an employer.
• The internship must be full-time, consisting of at least 32 hours per week. All tasks assigned to the student intern must be necessary for the completion of the internship and may not exceed 20% clerical work.
• The internship must expose the participant to American techniques, methodologies, and technology, expand upon the participant’s existing knowledge and skills, and not duplicate the student intern’s prior experience.
• The internship can last up to 12 months per degree/major. (Extensions beyond 12 months are not permitted.)
• The student must return to their academic program outside the U.S. and complete the degree at their home institution after finishing the internship program.