J-1 Teacher Program FAQs
Q: How long can teachers stay in the US?
A: Under the J-1 teacher Program participants can teach for 1-3 years at accredited K-12 schools (pre-k teachers only for dual-immersion language programs), with a possibility for a 1-2-year extension.
Q: What is the typical calendar year US host schools?
A: The U.S. school year runs from August/September to May/June, dependent upon the school district and region.
Q: How can teachers become certified to teach in their US host school?
A: The teacher certification process is different state-by-state. The first step for all teachers is to undergo a Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE). Fortunately we offer this service for a fee for our teachers to expedite their FCE.
Q: What type of schools can teachers expect to be placed in?
A: We work with all types of accredited K-12 schools, public and private, across the country.
Q: What is the salary for participating teachers?
A: Teacher salaries are set by schools and districts based upon pedigree and experience. Teachers can expect to earn the same salary and benefits as their American counterparts, ranging from $35-50k USD/year.
Q: Where does the two years teaching experience need to be from?
A: Teaching experience must be from an accredited academic institution.
Q: Is it possible for teachers to extend their J1 visa for the J-1 Teacher Program on the second year?
A: Yes, teachers will typically be offered a 1-year contract from their school, at the end of the year schools and participants will determine whether they want to extend their contract. We will work with our visa sponsor to issue a new DS-2019 form with a new program end date and invoice the participant.
Q: Are teachers allowed to work a second job while on the program?
A: The regulations for the J-1 Teacher visa do not allow teachers to take a paid position in addition to their current teaching position in the U.S. However, they may take on additional extra-curricular opportunities within their host school (i.e. coaching, tutoring).
Q: Can participant’s dependents (children under 21 and spouses) work on a J-2 visa?
A: Yes. Participant’s dependents can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) that grants them permission to work while on a J-2 visa.