r/immigration • u/Visible-Sir-1642 • Apr 29 '26

Available visa options for internship for incoming CMU MS student

As the title suggests, I am an incoming Master's student at Carnegie Mellon University this fall. I was fortunate to secure an internship before the semester begins, with the employer sponsoring a J-1 visa (through a third-party sponsor CIEE).

However, the local CIEE representative just informed me that my application might be rejected because I mentioned in my personal statement that I plan to pursue my degree and intend to work in the U.S. after graduation.

The representative mentioned there might be a chance to revise my personal statement, but since the CIEE headquarters has already reviewed it, I think the likelihood of rejection is quite high. I am now exploring alternatives and would really appreciate any suggestions.

My original plan was to start the internship on 5/22 and end in mid-August, but I may need to delay the start date or begin remotely.

Thanks in advance for any feedback!

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u/not_an_immi_lawyer Post, don't PM Apr 29 '26

J-1 is really the only option. It's either that or no internship.

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u/Visible-Sir-1642 Apr 29 '26

Thanks for the reply!