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Academic Year in the United States (J1 Visa)
The most authentic cultural exchange experience: live with a real American family, study at a public institute and be part of everyday American life.
WHAT IS THE J1 PROGRAM?
More than an academic year: an official cultural exchange.
The J1 visa is an official cultural exchange program sponsored and strictly regulated by the United States government (through the Department of State). It was created in 1961 under the Fulbright-Hays Act with a clear purpose: to promote mutual understanding between cultures and to create meaningful bonds between American citizens and young people around the world.
While it includes an academic component, its main focus is total cultural immersion, not just studying abroad.
In this program, students travel as “young ambassadors,” ready to share their culture while fully integrating into American life.
For a full academic year, students attend an American public high school and live with a volunteer host family, integrating into their daily lives as a true member of the family.
It's not just about studying abroad. It's about living a profound experience that will change your life.
HOW DOES THE J1 PROGRAM WORK?
An Authentic Experience like no other.
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100% volunteer host families
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The cornerstone of the J1 program is that host families are completely voluntary and do not receive financial compensation.
They decide to host students out of a genuine interest in cultural exchange and to welcome a new member into their home.
In this program, you don't choose the family, but the family chooses you, based on a detailed student profile (photos, grades, hobbies, and personal letters) that you prepare with our support.
Host families may have different structures: families with children, couples without children, single-parent families, or same-sex couples. All of them go through a rigorous selection process to ensure the safety and well-being of the student.
Once a family selects you, you must accept the placement, and this is precisely what makes the experience so authentic and unique.
Assigned destination and school
Since the family selects the student, the program is considered a “blind admission”.
You can't choose the state, city or school (although there is an additional option to select a preferred state or area).
You will attend the public high school assigned to the school district where your host family lives.
Most internships take place in small towns, rural areas or suburban environments, which is where the most authentic, immersive and safe experience is lived.
This guarantees complete cultural immersion and a much more human and authentic experience than more commercial programs.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Who can participate in the J1 program?
The U.S. government sets clear requirements to ensure student success:
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Age
Between 14 and 18 years old (maximum 18.5 years on arrival).
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Level of English
A solid intermediate level, assessed by official tests such as ELTIS, is required.
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Academic Level
A good academic record (no suspended subjects) is required and students must maintain a minimum grade point average of “C” during their stay.
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Attitude
We are looking for open-minded, responsible and adaptable students, with a genuine desire to live an experience of complete cultural immersion.
PROGRAM RULES (FULL IMMERSION)
Rules to ensure the full cultural immersion
To ensure maximum immersion, the J1 program includes strict rules:
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You cannot return to Spain during the academic year (including holidays such as Christmas).
Family visits are generally not allowed until after the 7th month.
The J1 program can only be completed once in a lifetime (maximum 10 months or 5 months per semester).
These rules may seem strict, but they are precisely what make the experience so profound, authentic and transformative.
WHAT DOES IT INCLUDE
Everything you need for a safe and complete experience.
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Enrollment in an American public high school
Accommodation with a volunteer host family (full board)
Comprehensive health insurance
Orientation and processing of the J1 visa
Pre-departure preparation (cultural and academic)
Ongoing assistance throughout the stay.
Local Coordinator (who lives close to you and with monthly supervision)
24/7 support in Spain and the United States.
Guidance on academic validation upon return
MONITORING, SECURITY AND VALIDATION
Security and Support at all times.
Academic validation
Although the program focuses on cultural exchange, the academic year is 100% recognized in Spain, as long as you follow the subject selection guidelines that we recommend.
The program is managed through official U.S. sponsors. UU. (organizations accredited by the U.S. Department of State) UU.).
Each student is assigned a local coordinator who lives nearby, ensures that the host family meets all requirements before arrival, and provides monthly supervision and support.
Each student is assigned a local coordinator who lives nearby, ensures that the host family meets all requirements before arrival, and provides monthly supervision and support.
Why is it more affordable?
Because foster care by host families is voluntary and public education is partially subsidized, the J1 program is the most affordable option for studying for a year in the United States.
BENEFITS OF THE J1 PROGRAM
An experience that Mark a before and after
Proficiency in real English through full immersion.
Personal growth, independence and maturity.
Integration into a new, open and diverse culture.
Development of social and adaptability skills
Academic and professional advantages.
Authentic family experience with a true American family.
It's not just about a year abroad. It's an investment in your future and in the person you want to become.
PROGRAM OPTIONS
Choose option J1 that best suits you.
We offer different versions of the J1 program to adapt to the needs of each student.
J1 Insignia — Premium Option
Ideal for students with specific needs (allergies, dietary requirements, sports preferences, or location requests).
Key Features:
Students with allergies or special conditions are allowed (limited places).
Possibility to request specific preferences (sports, activities, etc.)
Option to continue a second year (moving to F1)
Premium health insurance
Optional tours (Hawaii, New York, California...)
Nationwide coverage
Job placement success rate of 100% since 1989.
The best option for maximum flexibility and peace of mind.
Price: 14,780€
J1 Without Borders — Balanced Option
A complete J1 experience with extensive coverage and additional travel options, at a more affordable price.
Key Features:
Nationwide coverage
Optional travel programs
Authentic experience with a volunteer family.
All the guarantees of the official J1 program
Ideal for students looking for a complete experience at a balanced price.
Price: 13,200€
FAQs
FAQs About the J1 program
Is it safe?
Can I choose my destination?
Is the academic year recognized?
Can I go home during the year?
How much does it cost?
Can I do the program more than once?
Start your experience in the United States.
We help you find the ideal program and guide you every step of the way, from the first contact to the day you return home with a life-changing experience.
Specialists in high school programs in theUnited States. More than 15 years supporting students and families with a personal touch,thoroughness, and firsthand experience
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