The DS-7002 Training/Internship Placement Plan (T/IPP) is a required document for all J-1 Trainee participants in the U.S. Department of State’s Exchange Visitor Program.
It serves as the foundation of every J-1 training experience — outlining how the program will be structured, supervised, and evaluated.
At Summa Global Education (US Trainee), we help both host companies and participants understand that the DS-7002 is not just a form — it is a shared commitment to educational and cultural exchange.
What Is the DS-7002?
The DS-7002 describes the purpose, content, and structure of a J-1 Trainee program.
It ensures that the training experience is designed to promote learning and cultural understanding, not ordinary employment.
The document must be completed and signed by three parties before the DS-2019 can be issued:
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The Host Company, which provides the structured training environment.
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The Participant, who must review and understand the objectives.
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The Designated Sponsor Organization, which verifies that the plan meets all U.S. Department of State regulations.
What Information Does It Contain?
The DS-7002 form is organized into several sections that outline the full scope of the program:
1. Participant and Site Information
Basic information about the host company, location, supervisor, and program dates.
2. Training Goals and Objectives
A clear statement of what the participant will learn and how these skills will contribute to professional development.
Example: To gain an understanding of U.S. client communication and project coordination methods in a business setting.
3. Phases of Training
Each program is divided into phases, describing:
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The duration of each phase
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Specific projects or activities
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Skills and knowledge to be developed
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Methods of supervision and evaluation
Example:
Phase 1 (Month 1–3): Introduction to company workflow and software tools.
Phase 2 (Month 4–6): Participation in project management and client relations.
4. Supervision and Oversight
Identifies the direct supervisor and explains how progress will be monitored and evaluated.
5. Compensation and Work Hours
Indicates whether the program is paid or unpaid, and confirms that the training is full-time (at least 32 hours per week) as required by regulation.
Why the DS-7002 Matters
The DS-7002 is required under 22 CFR §62.22 and serves several critical functions for all parties involved:
For the Host Company
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Provides a clear training structure that aligns with U.S. Department of State standards.
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Ensures the program focuses on education and supervision, not routine work.
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Helps prevent compliance issues by documenting learning objectives and mentorship methods.
For the Participant
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Defines what will be learned, how, and under whose guidance.
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Protects against unstructured or unrelated work assignments.
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Encourages professional growth through measurable, phase-based learning outcomes.
For the Sponsor
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Demonstrates compliance with program regulations.
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Serves as a monitoring and evaluation tool to ensure the exchange program’s educational purpose is fulfilled.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Both host companies and participants should ensure that the DS-7002:
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Includes specific and measurable training goals.
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Avoids job descriptions that sound like ordinary employment.
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Lists each training phase with clear timelines and learning outcomes.
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Is fully signed by all three parties before DS-2019 issuance.
Incomplete or overly general DS-7002 forms may cause delays in visa processing or risk non-compliance during program review.
In Summary
The DS-7002 is more than a government requirement — it is the blueprint of the J-1 training experience.
It defines expectations, responsibilities, and educational outcomes for everyone involved: the sponsor, the host company, and the participant.
By following the DS-7002 carefully, all parties ensure that the J-1 Trainee program achieves its original mission to promote mutual understanding through education, training, and cultural exchange.
📄 Reference Sources:
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U.S. Department of State – 22 CFR §62.22: Training and Internship Programs
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BridgeUSA Official Website: https://j1visa.state.gov
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Form DS-7002 (Training/Internship Placement Plan), U.S. Department of State
📧 For inquiries: ustrainee@anbeducation.com
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