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ABOUT THE PROGRAM

The BridgeUSA Teacher Exchange Program is a program supported by Exchange Leaders International (ELI) that aims to provide international teachers with opportunities for cross-cultural enrichment and professional development. The program facilitates the exchange of teachers between different countries, allowing them to teach in the United States and interact with colleagues and students. The program offers various benefits, including professional skill development and participation in cross-cultural activities at host schools and communities throughout the United States.

If you are a teacher interested in applying for J-1 sponsorship to teach in the U.S., click the REGISTER ONLINE below and complete the Registration Form. If you have obtained a job offer, you will need to provide the name of the specific host school where you intend to teach, rather than just the school district.

If you require assistance in finding a teaching position in the U.S., you can submit a request for more information, and the program administrators can provide guidance and support in locating suitable opportunities.

SUMMARY OF FEES

When participating in the Exchange Visitor Program, it's crucial to have a clear understanding of the financial aspects involved before accepting a position and arriving in the U.S. ELI Teachers are expected to act responsibly with their finances during their stay, which includes being aware of all fees, costs, taxes, insurance, payroll deductions, living expenses, and any additional expenses related to family members joining them under J-2 dependent visa status.

Before accepting a teaching position in the U.S., you will receive a Confirmation of Appointment Letter from your host school, which will specify your gross annual salary in U.S. dollars.

It is advisable to use the provided information to plan and prepare your finances prior to your arrival in the U.S. Many teachers choose to bring some money with them to cover initial relocation expenses, especially since the first paycheck may not be received until the end of the first month of work.

Additionally, it's important to estimate your net or "take-home" pay using the information provided, as it will help you make informed decisions when budgeting and allocating resources for housing, transportation, and other everyday living expenses.

By understanding these financial aspects and planning ahead, you can ensure a smoother transition and better manage your finances during your participation in the Exchange Visitor Program as an ELI Teacher.

U.S. Government Fees

The following initial fees are paid directly by the teacher to the appropriate U.S. government agency as part of the visa application process:

$220 - SEVIS Fee (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System). This is a one-time only fee paid only by the J-1 visa applicant

$160 - Visa Processing Fee paid to the US Embassy. This fee applies to all J-1 and J-2 visa applicants

Fees Payable to ELI (can be paid by the host school or by the Teacher

Sponsorship Fee - 1st year: $2,500 (includes *health insurance valid through June 30, 2025)
Renewal fee (2nd – 5th year, each year, if applicable): $1,500 (includes insurance valid through June 30, 2025)
Travel Validation: included in sponsorship/renewal fee

*Health Insurance

As a participant in the Exchange Visitor Program you are required to have health insurance which meets EVP requirements. Any J-2 dependents with you in the U.S. are also required to have adequate health insurance.

Health insurance rates may vary by location, age, type of coverage selected and number of family members requiring coverage and could range from $80 - $150 per person per month.

Additional Fees Payable to ELI (optional - depending on services requested):

J-1 / J-2 Insurance (emergency medical & travel policy)
Placement Fee (if ELI provides placement services): $1,500
J-2 Dependent Fee (if applicable): $400
Additional J-2 Dependent Fee (each additional): $300
Extension Fee (extensions beyond 3 years must be approved by ELI and U.S. Department of State (DoS)): $450 ($367 DoS fee + $83 for DS-2019 reissue)
Host School Transfer Fee (transfers to new schools must be approved by ELI prior to signing a new host school contract, even for transfers within same school district): $500
Form DS-2019 reissue fee (required for any program date changes after initial DS-2019 issuance): $45

Estimated Living Expense While in the USA:

Below are monthly averages for a single person -

Housing: $800 - $2,500+
Local transportation: $200 - $700
Food: $600 - $1,000
Utilities: $150 - $300
Cell phone: $50 - $100
Clothing: $100 - $500
Travel / Entertainment: $250 - $500
Medical including insurance deductibles: $300 - $600
Cable and Internet: $50 - $300+
Childcare: $600 - $1,000+ (per child)

NOTE: ELI will provide you a Budget Planning Sheet during the visa processing stage. Prior to your arrival in the U.S. you will receive comprehensive ELI orientation materials and resources where you can research these expenses in more detail based on your where you will be living and working.

Third Party Fees (optional)

Some schools and/or teachers choose to work with third party recruitment or placement organizations. Third-party recruitment or placement agencies often facilitate connections between schools and teachers. While these agencies provide valuable services, they also commonly charge fees for their assistance. This expense can be levied on either the teacher or the educational institution.

Before you accept any teaching position, ensure that you are fully aware of all potential financial responsibilities. It is essential that you:

- Ask if there is any placement fee involved.

- Determine who is responsible for the fee

- Get a clear written statement detailing:

exact amount of the placement fee
payment schedule (how and when the payment should be made)
any additional costs that may arise

- Ask what services are covered by this fee?

Research the reputation of any third-party agency you are considering. Taking the time to become fully informed about placement fees prior to taking up a teaching position in the U.S. can protect you from unexpected financial strains and possible legal issues. Always opt for transparency and obtain written documentation regarding any fees. Doing so ensures that you can focus on what's most important—your new role in facilitating learning and fostering understanding across cultures.