Teach in a U.S. School

  • Calling all talented teachers! Sharpen your skills and gain valuable experience by teaching in the U.S.

  • Overview

    Greenheart Exchange’s Teach USA program connects enthusiastic, highly-qualified international teachers with U.S. K-12 host schools to promote cultural understanding and public diplomacy.

    Our primary goal is to facilitate an exceptional professional exchange program for teachers from all around the world to share their knowledge and experience in the U.S.

    Through travel and cultural exchange, Greenheart helps individuals reach their full potential, leading to a more tolerant, peaceful and environmentally sustainable world.

  • Our Program

    The purpose of the Teach USA program is to promote interaction and enhance mutual understanding between U.S. and international teachers. Participating teachers are placed in a K-12 host school for 1-3 years and teach a wide range of subjects. During this program, teachers can expect to sharpen their professional skills and take part in cross-cultural activities within their schools and local communities.

    Greenheart Exchange provides two (2) program options:

    • Self-placed (SP): placements are arranged directly between the teacher and the school, supplemented by Greenheart Exchange’s sponsorship
    • Full Program (FP): placements are facilitated by Greenheart Exchange Teach USA, matching host schools with a qualified, experienced teacher

  • Eligibility

    All Teach USA applicants must:

    • Meet the qualifications for teaching at the primary or secondary levels in schools in their country of nationality.
    • Have a degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree in Education or the academic subject field in which they intend to teach.
    • Have a minimum of 2 years teaching or related professional experience.
    • Satisfy the teaching eligibility standards of the U.S. state in which he or she will teach, including any required criminal background checks.
    • Be of good reputation and character.
    • Agree to come to the U.S. as a full-time teacher of record in an accredited primary (including pre-kindergarten) or secondary school.
    • Be proficient in English. Teachers will be interviewed in English to assess verbal ability and comprehension.
    • Be working as a teacher at the time of application.
    • Applicants NOT working as a teacher at the time of application must:
      • Meet the qualifications for teaching at the primary or secondary levels in schools in his or her home country (including pre-kindergarten).
      • Have at least two years of full-time teaching experience within the past eight years.
      • Have completed an advanced degree (in Education or in the academic area he or she intends to teach) within 12 months of his or her application submission date for the program.

  • Fees

    Greenheart Exchange’s program fee includes:

    • J-1 Visa Sponsorship (DS-2019 form)
    • Pre-Departure Virtual Orientation
    • Teach USA Application Fee
    • Discounted Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE) services
    • 24/7 in-country support from Greenheart Exchange
    • 90-day medical insurance coverage and yearly emergency medical evacuation insurance
    • Placement with an accredited U.S. Host School (Full Program)
    • Teach USA Teacher’s Toolkit

    Greenheart Exchange’s program fee does not include:

    • Program Extension Fee (per year)
    • Airfare to and from the U.S.
    • SEVIS fee ($180 USD)
    • Visa interview fee ($160)
    • J-2 Dependent visa fee ($400/year)
    • Housing, transportation, meals, and personal expenses

    Program fees are variable and dependent upon program type. Cancellation fees will apply.

     

  • Program Timeline

    Applications Open:     February 1st

    Applications Close:     June 14th

    U.S. Arrival Dates:       July 15th – August 15th

    U.S. School Year:         August-May

  • FAQs

    How do I apply for the Teach USA program?

    It’s simple! Begin by clicking the “Check Eligibility” button. Greenheart Exchange will review your submission and contact you shortly.

    Who pays the Teach USA program fees?

    Participants are responsible for paying all fees associated with the Teach USA program. However, Greenheart does encourage schools to help pay for program fees if funding is available.

    What type of salary will I earn as a teacher?

    Teach USA teachers earn the same salary and benefits as their American counterparts. This is a requirement for all host schools in the Teach USA program.

    How do I become certified to teach in my U.S. host state and school?

    Teacher certification for international teachers is different state-by-state. The first step for all teachers is to undergo a Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE). Greenheart Exchange offers a unique discount for our teachers to expedite their FCE and save money in the process!

    What types of host schools am I eligible to teach at (public, charter, private, international)?

    Greenheart Exchange works with all types of accredited K-12 schools, provided they are supportive of international teachers and cultural exchange.

    What is the timeline of the Teach USA program?

    The U.S. school year typically runs from August to the following June.

    Can my spouse or children (dependents) accompany me to the U.S.?

    Yes! Spouses and children under 21 are eligible for sponsorship on a J-2 visa. Greenheart recommends that your family join you in the U.S. only after you have arrived at your placement, began teaching, and secured housing. Additionally, J-2 children can attend school in the U.S.

    Can my spouse work on a J-2 visa?

    Dependents may apply for an I-765 from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to work throughout the duration of their stay.

    How long can I stay in the U.S.?

    Teachers can stay up to 3 years and may apply for an extension of 2 years for a possible total of 5 years.

  • Blog

Check Eligibility