When do I need to be available and for how long?
Be available for nine weeks, leaving for the USA no later than June 26th 2008 (preference is given to applicants who are available earlier and for longer periods).

Does Camp America have age restrictions?
Camp America has no upper age limit. So, if you're at least 18 years (by 1st June) or over, then we'd like to hear from you.

Do I need to be an Olympian or gold medalist in order to be placed at a summer camp?
No! Provided you have a skill, love working with children and have the energy, patience and enthusiasm to match, then you can virtually start packing your bags!

Can I be placed with my friends at the same camp?
Naturally we would try, however camp directors don't encourage this so chances are slim. Married and engaged couples do have a better chance. Please apply early to increase chances.

Can I lodge a paper, hard copy application?
No. All applications are now done online which puts you in control from start to finish. It's so much easier for you, your interviewer, the camp and Camp America.

Do I have to attend an interview at the US Consulate for my visa?
Yes. All applicants on ‘J’ visa programs must attend a personal interview at a US Consulate prior to issue of the J-1 visa which is a requirement of participation. US consulates are located in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth so regrettably for some applicants, interstate travel for the interview will be involved.

Can I extend my Camp America US J1 Visa?
No. The J1 visa is usually valid from 1st June to 30th September plus there is normally a 30-day grace period for travel purposes. It is however possible to obtain an extension B1/B2 tourist visa (at the same time as applying for your J-1 Visa) which allows you to undertake extended travel in the USA. Any questions relating to visas and eligibility etc. should be directed to your nearest US Consulate. See our Links page for US Consulates.

How do I contact a Camp America interviewer?
Once you have completed the Camp America Application form online and pressed the ‘SUBMIT’ button, you then have the option to select an interviewer. The list of interviewers is split into different regions. Just select your region and then select the nearest interviewer to you.

Once you have made the selection, your application is available for the interviewer to review. The interviewer will review your application and respond to you within 5 days. If they have not responded within this time frame, you should contact your local Camp America office either by email or phone. All communication is initially conducted via the Camp America web site. It is therefore essential that you keep on logging on to check for any updates.

Am I required to attend a Camp America interview?
Yes, you are. We have friendly, experienced interviewers throughout Australia and interviews normally take around 45-60 minutes. Your personal interview will be arranged following receipt of your Camp America online application. This Camp America interview has no connection with the US Consulate interview mentioned earlier!

Am I required to attend a Camp America Information Meeting?
No you are not. Nevertheless, you'll find them informative, fun, you'll meet past participants, see videos, get good travel advice and learn why Camp America is the world's leading US camp counsellor program. And they're free.

Finally, why choose Camp America?
Camp America is a program of the American Institute for Foreign Study, which organizes cultural exchange programs throughout the world for more than 50,000 students and young travellers every year. Since our founding in 1964, we've had over one million people participate on AIFS cultural exchange programs! Camp America Australia commenced in 1972 and is the country's best known and most experienced camp counsellor program. There’s only one camp America!