Frequently Asked Questions

You must hold a degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor's degree in education or the subject you plan to teach, have at least two years of full-time teaching experience, meet the qualifications for teaching in your home country, demonstrate English language proficiency, and be currently teaching or have recently completed an advanced degree with prior teaching experience.

The J-1 Teacher Exchange Program allows you to teach for up to three years initially, with the possibility of extending for one or two additional years in certain circumstances. After completing your program, you must return to your home country for at least two years before being eligible to reapply.

The national average teacher salary for 2025-2026 is approximately $74,200, though this varies significantly by state and district. In the states where IE2 Services places teachers, salaries typically range from $55,000 to $85,000 depending on location, with most positions offering between $60,000 and $75,000 annually. Your salary will be commensurate with U.S. teachers having similar education and experience levels in your district.

Mandatory fees include the SEVIS fee ($220), visa application fee ($185), credential evaluation ($175-$225), and potential visa extension fees ($367 if applicable). Additional costs include document translations, background checks, medical exams, and travel expenses for your visa interview and relocation to the United States.

We recommend bringing at least $3,000-$4,000 for initial expenses. You may not receive your first paycheck for 4-6 weeks after starting work. Initial costs include housing deposits (typically first and last month's rent), utilities setup, groceries, transportation, and a mobile phone. Budget approximately 25-35% of your monthly salary for rent, though this varies significantly by location.

No. We work directly with you throughout the entire process—no middlemen, no hidden fees. If someone claims to represent IE2 Services or asks for payment to connect you with us, please contact us immediately. We believe in transparency and direct communication.

Our support extends throughout your entire program. We assist with housing arrangements, setting up utilities, obtaining necessary documentation like Social Security numbers, and understanding your school's systems. We conduct regular check-ins throughout your stay—not just compliance calls, but genuine conversations about your classroom experiences and any challenges you face.

Yes, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 may accompany you on J-2 visas. However, you must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support them. We recommend bringing family members after you've successfully settled into your new environment and feel financially prepared for the additional expenses.

Yes, you'll need a course-by-course credential evaluation from a NACES or AICE member organization to verify your education meets U.S. equivalency standards. This evaluation is valid for five years and typically costs between $175-$225. We guide you through selecting the appropriate evaluation service and understanding exactly what documentation you need.

You'll work full-time with a minimum of 32 hours per week of teaching and teaching-related activities. Beyond classroom instruction, expect responsibilities including lesson planning, grading, parent-teacher conferences, faculty meetings, professional development sessions, and potentially supervising extracurricular activities. Most teachers work approximately 45-50 hours per week when including all responsibilities.

As part of the J-1 program, you're required to complete cultural exchange activities each year. This includes sharing your home country's culture with your school community and facilitating dialogue between U.S. students and your home country. We help you plan meaningful activities that fulfill these requirements while enriching your classroom experience.

No. J-1 visa regulations strictly prohibit working anywhere except the school listed on your DS-2019 form. You cannot provide paid tutoring, work part-time jobs, or earn income from any other source. Violation of this rule can result in immediate program termination and departure from the United States.

Generally, you must remain at the school listed on your DS-2019 form. Changes are only permitted in exceptional circumstances involving health, safety, or welfare concerns and must be approved by IE2 Services as your sponsor. We work closely with you and your school to ensure a successful placement from the start.

We maintain regular communication throughout your program to address any concerns before they become serious issues. If challenges arise with your placement, we work with you and your school to find solutions. Our team of former educators understands classroom dynamics and can provide practical guidance for navigating difficulties.

We recommend starting at least 4-6 months before your intended start date. The process includes credential evaluation, securing a teaching position, visa application, and interview scheduling. School hiring typically occurs between February and July for positions starting in August/September, though opportunities may arise throughout the year.