Program Purpose

Our J-1 Teacher Program, guided by 22 CFR 62.24, aims to promote the interchange of U.S. and foreign teachers and enhance mutual understanding between the people of the United States and other countries. Exchange teachers sharpen their professional skills and participate in cross-cultural activities in schools and communities, and they return home after the exchange to share their experiences and increased knowledge of the United States and the U.S. educational system. Such exchanges enable foreign teachers to understand better U.S. culture, society and teaching practices at the primary and secondary levels, and enhance U.S. students’ knowledge of foreign cultures, customs and teaching approaches.

Whether you’re ready to begin a rewarding journey as an exchange teacher, aiming to enhance your school community with talented international educators, or interested in building meaningful partnerships through cultural exchange, we offer tailored pathways to support your goals. Explore our diverse opportunities below and take the first step towards an exciting adventure with us.

Program Support

Program sponsor brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every aspect of the program. Their extensive history ensures a well-established and reliable framework for successful participant experiences.

Swift Application Processing

Expect prompt turnarounds and straightforward application processing.

Sponsor Placements

Program sponsor provides candidates with program placement opportunities that are posted on the website, updated frequently.

Pre-Departure Orientation

Program sponsor provides participants with a comprehensive Pre-Departure Orientation to help ensure a successful program experience.

Insurance Coverage

Program sponsor obtains Sickness & Accident Insurance coverage for each program participant in accordance with U.S. government requirements

Clear Guidance and Resources

Program sponsor provides comprehensive guidance and resources throughout a participant’s program. 

24/7 Program Assistance

Program sponsor provides a toll-free, 24-hour program assistance hotline.

Program Durations

1-Year Placements

Ideal for schools looking to engage in short-term cultural exchange. This option allows you to explore the benefits of hosting an international educator with a one-year commitment.

2-3 Year Placements

Designed for schools aiming to foster deeper connections and long-term contributions from international teachers. These placements give educators ample time to integrate into your school community and make a lasting impact.

Extensions Beyond 3 Years

For schools and teachers seeking to continue their collaboration, the program offers the possibility of extending placements beyond the initial term, up to a maximum of 5 years, pending approval.

Program Options

For program applicants who do not have a confirmed teaching position in the U.S. and are seeking placement assistance from a program sponsor.

For program applicants who have a teaching position in the U.S. and are seeking a program sponsor.

To qualify for the J-1 Teacher Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Meet the qualifications for teaching in primary or secondary schools in their home country or last legal residence. Be working as a teacher in the home country or country of legal residence at the time of application, or, if not working as a teacher, otherwise meet the eligibility qualifications and (a) have recently (within 12 months of application) completed an advanced degree and (b) have two years of full-time teaching experience within the past eight years.
  • Have a degree-equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree in either education or the academic subject field in which they intend to teach.
  • Have a minimum of two years (24 months) of teaching or related professional experience.
  • Satisfy the standards of the U.S. state in which they will teach.
  • Be of good reputation and character.
  • Be seeking to enter the United States for the purpose of full-time teaching as a teacher of record at a primary (including pre-kindergarten) or secondary accredited educational institution in the United States (pre-kindergarten teachers must teach full-time, and at the pre-kindergarten level, may teach only language immersion at an accredited host school).
  • Possess sufficient proficiency in the English language.

The program sponsor works with accredited primary or secondary schools — public or private — which are interested in international teacher collaboration and cultural exchange. To engage in the program, host schools must:

  • Abide by U.S. Department of State program regulations and program sponsor guidelines.
  • Offer full-time teaching positions (minimum 32 hours per week) in accredited primary or secondary schools. Ensure exchange teacher appointments are temporary and do not lead to tenure.
  • Align program dates with the U.S. academic year cycle.
  • Ensure teaching positions are comparable in duties, responsibilities, hours, and compensation to those of similarly situated U.S. teachers.
  • Comply with any applicable collective bargaining agreements.
  • Verify exchange teachers meet U.S. state teaching eligibility standards, including criminal background checks. Promptly notify program sponsor of any significant changes or emergencies involving the exchange teacher.
  • Ensure exchange teachers maintain employment with the host school and, where applicable, the host school district during their program.

Exchange teachers are required to complete and submit an annual cultural activity report as part of the J-1 Teacher Program. This report must detail the cross-cultural activities conducted during each academic year. The purpose of this requirement is to ensure that exchange teachers actively contribute to cultural exchange by sharing aspects of their home country’s culture, traditions, and educational practices with their U.S. students and communities. Additionally, these activities should foster dialogue between U.S. students and students in the teacher’s home country, enhancing mutual understanding and global awareness. This annual reporting helps the program sponsor and the U.S. Department of State monitor and assess the effectiveness of the cultural exchange components of the program.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Host Schools

Schools hire exchange teachers to bring international expertise, find a uniquely qualified teacher, promote cultural exchange in the classroom, and bring a global perspective to its students and staff.

Yes. They are hired as full-time teachers, not teaching assistants.

Exchange teachers are typically strong in subject knowledge, experienced in structured teaching, and less familiar with U.S. classroom culture (initially).

The most common subjects are STEM, Primary Education, Special Education and World Languages. 

Initially, up to 3 years, with the option to extend to a total of 5 years. 

A designated sponsor organization manages visa processing and ensures compliance with federal regulations.

Schools must:

  • Provide a full-time, paid teaching role
  • Assist in obtaining teaching credentials
  • Support cultural exchange activities
  • Maintain a safe, professional environment

The school must pay the exchange teacher’s salary (same as a U.S. teacher). The school may choose to pay exchange teacher program fees.

Typically, 2–4 months, depending on timing and candidate availability.

If performance issues arise, the host school should address them directly and discuss them openly with the exchange teacher; for persistent or serious problems, program sponsor can assist with:

  • Performance support
  • Mediation
  • In some cases, replacement

Yes, many schools request exchange teachers based on:

  • Subject expertise
  • Cultural fit
  • Language needs

Yes. Since the requirements vary by state, exchange teachers often work toward certification after arrival, with the assistance and guidance from the host school. 

More than local hires—especially in:

  • Settling-in and cultural adaptation
  • Classroom management
  • School culture
  • Parent communication

No, but helping exchange teachers settle in (guidance, contacts) improves retention and overall program experience.

Host schools should help the exchange teacher participate in the following:

  • Classroom presentations about their country
  • School-wide cultural events
  • Community engagement

Not through the J-1 program. The exchange teachers are expected to depart the U.S. at the end of their teaching assignment, per J-1 visa regulations and program objectives.

Successful Host Schools:

  • Provide strong mentorship
  • Set clear expectations early
  • Support cultural adjustment
  • Treat Exchange Teachers as full team members

Exchange Teachers

You will work as a full-time teacher of record in a U.S. K–12 school, responsible for lesson planning, instruction, grading, and participating in school activities—just like a local U.S. teacher. In addition, you are required to complete and submit an annual cultural activity report. 

Applicants must:

  • Have a degree in education or your subject area
  • Have at least 2 years of full-time teaching experience
  • Be currently teaching or recently active in teaching
  • Be comfortable teaching in English in a classroom setting

Sometimes yes—if your degree is in the subject you teach and your experience is strong. However, some U.S. states may still require additional certification.

Not always. The program sponsor assesses English through interviews, but some placements or states may still require a formal test to apply for a teacher license.

You can list preferences, but placement depends on where schools are hiring. Flexibility significantly increases your chances of securing a position. 

No — you typically do not need a U.S. teaching license before applying to the program. However:

  • You must be qualified to teach in your home country
  • After placement, you will likely need to apply for a state teaching license or credential
  • Many states allow you to start teaching while completing certification requirements

Program sponsor and/or host school will guide you through:

  • Credential evaluation
  • State-specific licensing steps
  • Required exams (if any)

Important: Licensing requirements vary by state, and in some cases, you may need to complete additional coursework or testing after arrival.

You will have good chances to secure a teaching position if you:

  • Possess in-demand subject expertise (STEM, Special Ed, Primary Education)
  • Have clear English communication
  • Have confident in classroom management

Typically, 3–6 months, but it can be faster if documents and interviews move quickly.

Yes. You’ll usually have 1–3 interviews with school administrators before receiving an offer.

You’ll earn the same salary as a U.S. teacher with similar qualifications in that district. This varies widely by state (roughly $40K–$70K+).

Yes, but this depends on the location. Cities with higher salaries often also have higher living costs. Budgeting is important. Program sponsor provides a budget sheet to help you estimate your expenses.

Yes, there are fees associated with the program. Always review the full breakdown of fees before committing.

Common upfront costs include:

  • Program fees
  • Visa application fee
  • Flights
  • Initial housing deposit
  • First month of living expenses
  • Teacher licensing fees

Yes, but you’ll receive guidance and resources on how to locate and secure suitable housing. Some schools may be able to help with this process.

Yes, on J-2 visas. A separate application and fee are required for J-2 dependents—defined as the spouse or unmarried child under 21 of a J-1 exchange visitor.

Yes, but they must apply for work authorization after arrival, which can take a few months.

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You’ll be supported, but expectations are high. Schools expect you to perform like any teacher. Your program sponsor and your host school will provide the support you need to succeed in your teaching assignment.

Only in limited cases and with your program sponsor’s approval. This is not easy, so choosing the right placement matters.

Common challenges include:

  • Classroom behavior management in U.S. schools
  • Cultural differences with students and parents
  • Adjusting to workload and expectations

No. The J-1 visa is temporary. All exchange teachers are expected to depart the U.S. at the end of their teaching assignment.