Extending, Changing, or Ending Your Program Early
When plans change – and sometimes they do – CIEE will do everything possible to accommodate you. Whether you want to extend your program, change your host organization, or end your program early, know that we’re here to help. For more information, please continue reading below.
CIEE Help & Support
If your camp is interested in extending your program and you have not yet reached the maximum program duration, it may be possible to extend your program. To qualify for a program extension, you must:
- Remain with your host camp
- Not exceed the maximum program length (4 months)
Please note: It is not possible to extend your program after your DS-2019 expires.
To apply for a program extension, have your camp contact CIEE at least two weeks before your DS-2019 end date (and no later than July 30th). Once CIEE receives your extension application, our review will take up to 15 business days. If your extension is approved, CIEE will send a new DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status to your camp.
If an unexpected circumstance or event requires you to end your position before your program ends, please tell your supervisor at camp and contact CIEE as soon as possible at 1-888-268-6245 or contact@ciee.org.
Please provide a brief explanation of your reasons for leaving, the date you will leave the U.S., a summary of your departure flight details, your DS-2019 number, and your supervisor’s full name and telephone number.
Ending your program will involve the following steps:
- The participant and camp must agree to a last day. Depending on the situation, this can be immediate. However, you should give two weeks’ notice (if possible).
- Your DS-2019 will be shortened to reflect your last day at camp.
- CIEE insurance will be canceled one day after you depart from the U.S.
Please note: A participant cannot shorten their current program for the purpose of starting another program.
IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT THE NON-COMPLETION FEE
As detailed in terms & conditions of CIEE Camp Exchange USA, should your camp placement end early because you choose to depart before the contract end date or are fired from camp, CIEE reserves the right to collect a pro-rated portion of the program cost from you. This is called the non-completion fee. The non-completion fee will be assessed at $15 USD for each day not yet worked (based for all counselors on a standard 63-day contract). This amount will be due directly to CIEE or its designated international representative.
Please note that a non-completion fee will not be assessed in the event of an early departure due to illness or family emergency.