International Teacher Exchange: Your Gateway to Teaching in America
Join qualified educators from around the world in an enriching cultural exchange experience. ITES provides personalized J-1 visa sponsorship with hand-in-hand guidance from arrival to your return home—at no cost to you.
- Department of State authorized Exchange Visitor Program sponsor since 2008
- Comprehensive support from visa application through professional development
- In-person arrival orientations and ongoing guidance throughout your journey
- Build cross-cultural connections while advancing your teaching career
Personalized Support Every Step of the Way
Receive comprehensive visa guidance, credential evaluation support, and detailed orientation materials to prepare you for life and teaching in the United States.
Experience in-person orientation sessions designed to help you quickly assimilate to your new environment, connect with fellow exchange teachers, and feel confident from day one.
Access continuous professional guidance, cultural integration support, and expert advice tailored to your unique needs throughout your entire exchange experience.
Understand all costs upfront with our detailed fee breakdowns. Unlike competitors, ITES charges no sponsorship fees to teachers—only direct government visa fees apply.
Navigate foreign credential evaluation requirements with confidence. We provide discounted rates through trusted NACES-accredited partners for all ITES applicants.
Join an intentionally scaled program that prioritizes personal relationships over mass processing. Every teacher receives individualized care within our close-knit community.
Ready to Begin Your Cultural Exchange Journey?
Whether you're an educator seeking global opportunities or a school looking to enrich your community, we're here to support your success.
ITES and the school I am working at have both become a wonderful, new warm family that has supported me 100% through this new experience, which has strengthened my socio-cultural skills, not only as a teacher, but also as a human being.
From the moment you join to the day you return home—transformed by your journey—ITES walks hand-in-hand with their teachers. I've never felt more supported in my professional development.
The personal attention and cultural integration support I received made all the difference. ITES doesn't just process visas—they invest in your success as an educator and global citizen.
Your Journey to Teaching in America: Simple Steps
Review basic requirements including degree equivalency, two years teaching experience, and English proficiency. Complete your initial application online.
Connect with U.S. schools seeking international educators. Once offered a position, complete your full ITES application including credential evaluation.
ITES issues your DS-2019 form, guides you through the visa interview process, and provides comprehensive pre-departure orientation materials.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Teacher Exchange Program
What are the eligibility requirements for the ITES program?
You must possess a degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor's degree in education or your subject area, have at least two years of full-time teaching experience, demonstrate English proficiency, meet home country teaching qualifications, and possess good character. All applicants must commit to teaching full-time in an accredited K-12 school.
Does ITES charge teachers a sponsorship fee?
No. Unlike many competitors, ITES does not charge teachers any sponsorship fees to participate in our program. You are only responsible for direct U.S. government fees ($220 SEVIS fee and $185 visa processing fee) and potential costs for credential evaluation and background checks.
Can my family accompany me to the United States?
Yes. Your legal spouse and dependent children under 21 are eligible for J-2 dependent visa sponsorship. The annual J-2 dependent sponsorship fee is $250 per person and may be paid by either you or your host school. Family members may work and attend school in the U.S.
How long can I teach in the United States through the J-1 program?
Teachers can participate for up to three years initially, with the possibility of a one or two-year extension for a maximum of five years total. Upon program completion, you must return to your home country for at least two years before returning on another J-1 visa.
What support does ITES provide after I arrive in the United States?
ITES provides in-person arrival orientations, ongoing professional development support, cultural integration guidance, and expert assistance tailored to your individual needs throughout your entire exchange experience. Our intentionally scaled program ensures you receive personal attention, not mass processing.
Do I need to have a school placement before applying to ITES?
While having a school placement is ideal, you can register your interest with ITES before securing a position. If you've already been offered a position with a U.S. school, make sure the school also contacts ITES so we can guide both parties through the process together.
Ready to Begin Your International Teaching Journey?
Join educators from around the globe who are enriching U.S. classrooms while advancing their careers. Start your application today and experience the ITES difference.