| MAST International Partners
To better serve participants, MAST International works with representatives throughout the world. MAST International Partners help explain the program, evaluate prospective applicants, and assist participants when applying for entry visas. Partners provide pre-departure orientations and may assist with travel.
Program Length – Trainees
Trainees are limited to a maximum of 18 months participation on a J-1 visa. The MAST International program includes 3 to 12 months of practical training and may be followed by an optional Semester Study Program. The actual length of program is based on the Individual Training Placement Plan offered by the host trainer and MAST International. Trainees are not guaranteed the entire 18 months permitted under the regulations.
Program Length – Interns
Interns are limited to a maximum of 12 months participation on a J-1 visa. The MAST International program offers 3 to 12 month internships, with an option to participate in a Semester Study Program. Internships for participants choosing to do a Semester Study Program will be limited to 8 months of practical experience to allow time for the academic training. The actual length of program is based on the Individual Internship Placement Plan offered by the host trainer and MAST International. Interns are not guaranteed the entire 12 months permitted under the regulations.
Support
The MAST International staff has extensive international experience and training. They are responsible for providing educational leadership and guidance to all participants during their time on the program. Staff members assist in developing Training/Internship Placement Plans for participants, provide orientations upon arrival in the U.S., visit trainees and interns at their training sites, support and advise participants and hosts throughout their time on the MAST International program, and evaluate the experiences of trainees, interns, and host trainers.
Trainee and Intern Responsibilities
Participants on the MAST International program have responsibilities to the United States Government and to MAST International. Participants are required to follow J-1 visa regulations and MAST International program policies. It is important for participants to remember that they are ambassadors for the MAST International program and for their individual countries.
Selection Process
Country Partners pre-select and interview candidates. These applications are forwarded to MAST International for review. Staff members then attempt to find a placement site that matches the applicant’s interests. Next, the application is sent to the prospective host trainer for consideration. When a host trainer agrees to work with an applicant, the MAST International Partner will be informed, and the visa process begins.
Notification of Acceptance
Once selected to be a MAST International trainee or intern, the visa documents, training plans, and program materials are sent to the MAST International Partner, who forwards them to the participant.
Orientation
Upon arrival, a mandatory orientation is held at the University of Minnesota in St. Paul, Minnesota. The 2-day orientation discusses practical training, program policies, safety, and cultural adjustment. After officially enrolling and completing the orientation program, the training/internship begins.
| 
