Korea West Program

Program Overview

The Korea WEST Program is administered under the J-1 Intern category of the Exchange Visitor Program. The purpose of the Exchange Visitor Program is to increase mutual understanding between cultures, and the Korea West Program provides South Korean university students and young professionals the opportunity to intern, complete an intensive English study program, and explore the life and culture of the United States through immersion and independent travel. Korea West Program consists of 3 phases: “Work”, “English Study” and “Travel.”

Program Goals  

Korea WEST Program participants will have the opportunity to:

• Discover and understand American culture;
• Develop skills in their field of study at an American company;
• Improve their English language and intercultural communication skills;
• Gain practical experience in American work settings;
• Learn how to promote their skills and profile in an international context.

Requirements 

• Be a citizen of the Republic of Korea; 
• Receive approval for participation from the Republic of Korea; 
• Be a bona fide full-time student or recent graduate of a foreign post-secondary academic institution; 

              *A recent graduate is someone who graduated no more than 12 months prior to the 

              anticipated WEST program start date.   

• Provide proof of sufficient financial resources to support themselves throughout their program in the United States and for their return home; and 
• Will not be accompanied by a spouse or dependents. 

IGE Commitment  

As a program sponsor, IGE commits to:

• Provide Pre-departure Orientation in Seoul, and Arrival Orientation in Los Angeles
• Comply with all rules and regulations of the Exchange Visitor Intern Program
• Educate and assist all parties on the rules and regulations of the Intern Program including the participants and host organizations
• Provide health insurance for the entire duration of the program
• Monitor the health, safety and wellbeing of each participant
• Provide 24 hour support during the program