A critical investigation found that profit‑seeking operators co‑opted the U.S. J‑1 cultural‑exchange program, charging young workers thousands in fees while acting as sponsors. The probe documents how some sponsors prioritized revenue over participant protections and labor standards. The findings raise immediate compliance and accreditation questions for universities and host employers that rely on J‑1 participants for seasonal and entry‑level labor. Federal and state regulators may respond with enforcement actions and calls for tighter oversight of sponsor practices. International‑student offices, career centers, and host employers should audit their use of J‑1 placements, review sponsor contracts, and prepare for potential regulatory reforms that could reshape exchange programs.