Program Details

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Learn more about the MAST program experience and what to expect. Remember, every participant's training placement and program experience is unique. If your application is accepted by MAST, you will receive specific details for your placement. 

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Orientation

After arrival, trainees receive a comprehensive orientation. MAST provides an overview about the program, training guidelines, visa requirements, insurance and healthcare, and program support. Orientations also give the opportunity to meet the MAST staff and fellow program participants which strengthens connections throughout the program. Currently all MAST orientations are currently being conducted virtually.

Program Support

The MAST International staff have extensive international experience and training and we’re here to support you through your training experience. While you are in the USA, we track you progress, conduct site visits, and are always available for questions or concerns.

Costs & Fees

Program Fees

The training/internship fee is based on the length of practical experience and can range from $600 - $1,500. 

Months of Training Program Fee
1 to 4 months $600
5 months $700
6 months $800
7 months $900
8 months $1,000
9 months $1,100
10 months $1,200
11 months $1,300
12 months $1,400
13-18 months $1,500

*very few trainees qualify for 13 to 18 month placements

For placement lengths of 1-4 months, you will be required to pay the $600 program fee in full before we send your visa documents. If the U.S. consul denies your visa application through no fault of your own, MAST will refund $300 of program fees paid. If purchasing insurance through MAST, insurance fees must be paid in full within the first month of training.     

For placements longer than 4 months, you will be required to pay $600 of the program fees before we send your visa documents. If the U.S. consul denies your visa application through no fault of your own, MAST will refund $300 of program fees paid. The remainder of the program and insurance fees should be paid upon arrival in the U.S. If you are unable to pay the full amount within the first month of training, a payment plan may be arranged by MAST to allow for fees to be paid off over the first 3-4 months of training. 

What's Included
  • A customized training plan and placement at a U.S. business
  • J-1 visa sponsorship and U.S. Embassy assistance
  • Pre-departure packet and participant handbook
  • MAST orientation after arrival
  • Access to MAST staff throughout your program
  • 24-hour emergency support

Health Insurance

By law, all J-1 visa holders are required to have health insurance while in the U.S. MAST International currently offers an insurance option that costs $91 per month. Participants can bring their own insurance but it must meet certain U.S. government requirements specific to the J-1 visa. MAST participants receive guidance for purchasing health insurance before they arrive in the USA.

Study Program Fee

The MAST study program fee is $1,500. In addition, students are required to pay for food and housing, transportation, course materials, and health insurance. This is a reduced tuition rate, which makes the study program a great and affordable opportunity for MAST students!

Country Partner Fees

If you apply to the MAST program through one of our country partners, they may charge a fee for their services. County partners assist during the application and visa process.

Visa & Travel Expenses

After you receive a training placement, MAST will provide you with instructions and the necessary documents to apply for a J-1 visa. You will be required to pay for your visa interview (MRV) fee: $185, SEVIS fee: $220, your travel to the U.S., and your return trip to your home country.

Practical Training

During your internship, your host trainer will teach you primarily through the day-to-day work activities at their operation. Practical training in agriculture is hard work but this is how you will develop your skills! Each training site is unique and the amount of responsibility given to the trainee often depends on their skills and English ability.

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Host Trainers

MAST’s host trainers are screened, interviewed, and evaluated to ensure participants have a high-quality experience. Most host trainers have been a part of the MAST program for at least several years.

Training Locations

Internship placements are located throughout the USA. Farm placements are often in rural areas; other placement types are in a variety of locations.

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U.S. states with MAST training sites

Hours of Training

Participants typically work at least 40 hours per week and sometimes more; participants are guaranteed at least 32 hours of work per week. A short growing season and unpredictable weather often mean participants work long hours during peak periods, such as planting or harvest.

Living Arrangements

Each living situation is different. Some participants may live on the training site, while others live on their own. Host trainers assist in finding living arrangements that are a reasonable cost near the training site. Some trainees eat meals with their host families and some are responsible for some or all of their meals. Applicants indicate living preferences on the application but these choices cannot be guaranteed.

Compensation

Trainees and interns are paid at or above the national minimum wage and are paid directly by the host trainer. Currently, MAST’s minimum wage is $8.25. If housing or food is provided by the host trainer, these costs may be deducted from your pay.

Time Off & Vacations

Time Off

Trainees and interns receive a minimum of one day off each week. Time off is unpaid and may be scheduled by the host trainer as one day per week or two days every other week. Exceptions will occur during peak periods when participants are expected to be flexible about arranging their time off.

Vacations

For training that is longer than 4 months, trainees and interns can make arrangements with their host trainer to take a week or two off for vacation. Vacation time is unpaid and the amount of vacation time allowed depends upon the length of the training program. Timing of the vacation must be approved by the host trainer and may not be taken during peak work periods. In addition, participants have a 30-day grace period following their program to prepare for departure from the U.S. Often participants will travel around the USA during this time.

Cultural Exchange

While you are in the U.S., you should take advantage of the opportunity to experience and learn about American culture! Your host trainer should suggest activities or events in your local community, but it’s also a good idea to seek out the opportunities that you enjoy. 

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English

Many trainees and interns want to improve their English while they are in the U.S. The best way to do that is through practice! Always talk to you host trainer, roommates, and other contacts in English. If you’re looking for more learning opportunities, ask your host trainer if there are any English classes offered in your local community.

Travel

The U.S. is a big country – go out and explore! Travel is a big part of the MAST experience for many trainees and interns. Whether you want to check out the small towns in your area, travel to big cities like New York and L.A., or check out some of our awesome national parks like Yellowstone, there are a lot of options for you.

 Check out our Instagram for current trainee adventures!

MAST Study Program

This is a unique opportunity to take a semester of courses in the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences at the University of Minnesota. The MAST study program is an optional add-on after you've completed your practical training. In addition to the many classes that are available, MAST trainees also improve their English, meet American students, and explore the Twin Cities while studying.

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Timing

Which semester you participate in depends upon the timing of your practical training. If you are interested in studying, be sure to select “I want to study” on your MAST application. The fall semester is from September – December and the spring semester is from January – May.

Courses

MAST students can take courses in the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences. Courses are offered in Agronomy and Plant Genetics, Animal Science, Applied Economics, Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering, Entomology, Environmental Sciences, Food Sciences and Nutrition, Forest Resources, Horticultural Science, Plant Pathology, and Soil Water and Climate.

MAST International also offers courses in English, Farm and Business Management, and Journalism/Yearbook. 

Cost

  • The MAST study program fee is $1,500. In addition, students are required to pay for food and housing, transportation, course materials, and health insurance. This is a reduced tuition rate, which makes the study program a great and affordable opportunity for MAST students!

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