Frequently Asked Questions

To apply, review our application process for a step by step breakdown and start your application. Make sure to provide all the required information and documents.

The initial duration is a 3-year program with option to extend based on eligibility for a total maximum of 5 years.

To be eligible for our program, review our eligibility requirements.

Yes, you need to be a certified teacher in your home country, and you will need to obtain a state teaching certificate after arriving in the US. Your US school will provide more information about the US certificate, as each state has different requirements.

The program's cost varies depending on factors such as the duration of the placement and dependents. Review our pricing for more information.

The application process typically takes 4-6 weeks, depending on how long it takes for you and your school to submit your required documentation. 

Premium applicants indicate your preferred location during the application process. However, the final placement will depend on the availability of positions.

The J-1 visa program is 3 years, with the possibility to extend 2 additional years. The total length for the J-1 program is up to 5 years. At the end of the 5 years, teachers are required to leave the US.

Ultimately, the final decision for the visa is made by the US embassy. It is rare, but the embassy can deny teachers a visa at the end of the process. You do have the option to re-apply a second time.

You cannot change your status to a J-1. You will need to end your F-1 program and then apply for the J-1 program separately and from your home country.

No. J-1 teachers cannot work as substitute teachers, even short term. J-1 teachers must teach the position/subject that is listed on their offer letter, and they must be hired as a full-time lead teacher or teacher of record.

J-1 teachers can teach most general K-12 subjects (math, science, literature, etc.). However, J-1 teachers cannot teach vocational subjects, and they cannot teach at the Pre-K level (unless it is within a language immersion setting).

Yes. All J-1 teachers must complete a cultural activity report every year they are in the program. This includes a local and international activity. Additional details will be provided during the application process.

Each school year, J-1 teachers must complete and submit a report on their cross-cultural activities. This report is mandatory and must include the following two activities:

Local Activity: an activity that you organize for your classroom, host school, host school district population, or the community at large that showcases the history, traditions, heritage, culture, economy, educational system and/or other attributes of your home country. Examples include presenting home country’s traditional songs, dances, food, and music.

International Activity: an activity that you organize that facilitates cultural exchange and dialogue between your U.S. students and the students in your home country, through a virtual exchange or other means. The exchange should involve your entire class, rather than just a few students. Examples include pen-pal letter exchange, Zoom/virtual calls with students, and international book club.

For international activities, the home school and the U.S. host school should have the same education level (primary vs secondary school).

Self-Placement: If you have a teacher already selected. Placements are arranged directly between the teacher and the host school, supplemented by Intrax's sponsorship.

Full-Placement: If you need help recruiting teachers. Placements are facilitated by Intrax, matching host schools with qualified teachers. The process may involve reviewing resumes, conducting interviews, and assessing the candidates' qualifications and experience.

Host schools must be accredited K-12 schools, including pre-kindergarten language immersion programs offered as regular courses of study by accredited primary schools in the USA.

The matching process can vary depending on factors such as availability and the specific requirements of the teacher and school.

Provide appropriate support and supervision to J-1 teachers, including mentoring, professional development opportunities, assistance in adapting to the U.S. educational system and cultural environment, and monitoring their progress and well-being as provided to their American counterparts.

Fulfill all reporting requirements and comply with program regulations as outlined by Intrax and the U.S. Department of State. This includes maintaining accurate records, reporting any changes or incidents related to the exchange teachers, and communicating regularly with Intrax before, during, and after the program.