WEST Program

CDS Services & Program-Related Fees

The fee for the CDS WEST program is US$8350. This includes J-1 visa sponsorship, health insurance, orientation, the language course at Hunter IELI, internship placement services, and the support of CDS throughout the program, specifically:

• Application review and interview by CDS
• All necessary forms to complete visa application, including the Form DS-2019
• Participant orientation materials
• SEVIS fee, assessed by the U.S. Government to maintain data in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System
• Pre-Departure Orientation in Seoul conducted by CDS staff
• Orientation seminar in New York upon arrival—including a New York City tour and welcome luncheon
• A one-month unlimited ride New York City MetroCard for public transportation during first month of program
• 450 hours of language training at Hunter College’s International English Language Institute in Manhattan with a curriculum designed to meet the needs of WEST participants while maximizing integration with other students. WEST participants receive a Hunter College ID card that provides access to the university’s library, cafeteria, use of computer centers, as well as student discounts at various institutions in New York such as the Museum of Modern Art, the Whitney Museum, and many others
• Seminar program with workshops covering the internship search process
• Internship placement in an appropriate host company
• Comprehensive health and accident insurance provided by Cultural Insurance Services International that meets U.S. Department of State regulations
• Ongoing participant support by CDS staff assigned to the Korea WEST program for the entire duration of the program, including use of a toll-free emergency phone line

Please note that this fee does not include fees at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate, round trip travel from Korea to the U.S., any expenses related to independent travel following the internship, or any accommodation or housing expenses.

CDS WEST participants should plan to spend US$140–$250 on language materials at Hunter IELI, and should have access to US$2000 per month to cover expenses for the duration of the program