Our program facilitates world-class instruction from highly qualified teachers, enhancing global awareness and cultural exposure to prepare students for success in the 21st century.
The Exchange Visitor (J) non-immigrant visa category is for individuals approved to participate in work- and study-based exchange visitor programs. Qualified foreign nationals can travel to the United States for a period of time to engage in cultural exchange programming and then return to their home country to complete the exchange. STEM Resource Services Cultural Exchange sponsors qualified K-12 educators specifically in the teacher category of the exchange visitor program.
The Exchange Visitor Program promotes cultural and educational exchange between citizens of the United States and those of other countries. It provides foreign nationals with opportunities to participate in exchange programs in the U.S. and then share their experiences upon returning home. The program is for educational and cultural exchange, NOT EMPLOYMENT, although participants may be paid by their host school.
Some exchange visitors with J-1 visas are subject to a two-year home-country physical presence requirement, mandating their return home for at least two years after their program ends. This requirement is part of U.S. law, in the Immigration and Nationality Act, Section 212(e).
J-1 Teacher Exchange Visitors serve as classroom teachers in accredited K-12 schools in the U.S. They receive the same salary as American educators and engage in cross-cultural activities to promote cultural exchange between students in the U.S. and their home countries.
STEM Resource Services Cultural Exchange provides comprehensive support, including visa sponsorship, teaching positions, assistance with teaching certification, health insurance, orientation, ongoing professional development, and 24/7 support.
Educators must meet specific qualifications, maintain employment at an accredited K-12 school, have health insurance, update contact information, return home after the program, and fulfill the two-year home-country physical presence requirement.
Teachers are employed by host school districts, fulfill job duties, work standard hours, receive a salary equivalent to American educators, and may have deductions for taxes, union dues, and retirement benefits.
Employment is not guaranteed, but the majority of teachers remain employed throughout their visa duration.
No, STEM Resource Services does not charge any fees.
Other fees may include credential evaluation, visa fee, SEVIS fee, English test, certification fee, medical examination, initial expenses in the U.S., air travel, J-2 processing fees, and extension fees.
Salaries vary depending on the school district, educational background, and experience. Taxes are deducted from the paycheck.
Health insurance is provided by STEM Resource Services for the participant, but participants are responsible for the monthly premium for dependents.
Health insurance covers medical benefits, repatriation of remains, medical evacuation, and has a deductible not to exceed $500 per accident or illness.
Other costs may include rent, food, utilities, transportation, and personal funds for initial set-up and ongoing expenses.
Teachers must have a Bachelor’s Degree in Education, teaching experience, fluency in English, and a strong interest in cultural exchange.
No, STEM Resource Services requires educators to be currently working as lead classroom teachers in K-12 settings at accredited schools.
A driver’s license is not required but recommended.
The visa is issued for a 3-year period and can be extended up to 5 years.
Yes, spouses and children under 21 can accompany J-1 visitors on a J-2 visa.
Visit the STEM Resource Services website and apply online.
U.S. schools typically begin between August and September each year.
We recommend applying between September and January for the following school year.
Contact STEM Resource Services for support.
Exchange Visitors engage in cross-cultural activities to share their home country’s culture and connect U.S. students with students in their home country.
No, you can apply from any country outside of the United States.