Australian Citizen currently studying in the USA inquiring about JW 202

I am currently studying in the United States, but am an Australian Citizen, I wish to apply for a JW 202 visa, to study in China over my winter break (January - December), can I apply for it at the embassy in New York City, or will I have to do this when I return to Sydney in December. I want to leave for China before the new year so I am worried that I will not have enough time to get it in Australia, can you please advise?