Hidden Expenses for J-1 Teachers in the U.S. (What Most Don’t Budget For)
Hidden expenses can surprise many J-1 teachers — but they don’t have to surprise you. Here’s how to prepare wisely before and after you arrive in the U.S.
Visa & Job Guide
Everything you need to teach abroad—from job application tips to navigating the J-1 and H-1B visa process. This guide is for passionate educators around the world pursuing their teaching dreams in the U.S.
How Much Do J-1 Teachers Really Earn in the U.S.? (2026 Guide)
Curious how much J-1 teachers really earn in the U.S.? Compare salaries in New Mexico, Arizona, California, and Texas — plus cost of living, benefits, and savings potential explained.
How to Teach in the U.S. on a J-1 Visa: The Complete 2026 Guide for International Teachers
New to the J-1 teacher process? Start here. This complete 2026 guide explains how to teach in the U.S. on a J-1 visa — including requirements, 212(e) rules, salary expectations, and common mistakes to avoid.
Your J-1 Visa Says “212(e) Waived.” Now What?
If your J-1 visa says “212(e) waived,” you’ve unlocked rare immigration options — but many teachers accidentally waste this advantage. Here’s what to do now, what to avoid, and how to protect your future before your visa window closes.
J-1 Teachers: Side Jobs That Can Get Your Visa Terminated
Many J-1 teachers don’t realize that common side hustles can violate visa rules. Some activities that seem harmless may lead to termination. Here’s what you need to avoid.
Teach-USA Application Facilitation Services for SY 2026–2027: What You Need to Know
Teach-USA is now accepting participants for Application Facilitation Services for SY 2026–2027. This service provides guided support, resume check and suggestions, application guidance, and interview preparation for qualified international teachers—without guarantees of interviews or job offers.
T and U Visas: What Teachers Should Understand Before Considering This Path
In recent years, more international teachers and workers have heard about T and U visas as possible ways to stay in the United States. These visas are sometimes mentioned in online groups, private messages, or casual conversations — often during moments of fear, uncertainty, or when a temporary visa is nearing its end. Because of … Read more
Are You NIW-Ready? The 7 Signs International Teachers Should Look For
Many teachers are NIW-ready without realizing it. Here are the 7 clearest signs that your impact, leadership, and service may already align with NIW criteria.
Mental Health & Waivers: When Emotional Distress Becomes Legal Grounds
Mental and emotional distress only becomes legal grounds for a 212(e) hardship waiver when a U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse or child would suffer exceptional harm. This guide explains who qualifies—and who does not—so J-1 teachers don’t pursue the wrong waiver path.
Avoid Common Filipino Teacher Mistakes During U.S. Interviews: What Principals Really Notice
Many Filipino teachers lose U.S. job offers not because they lack skill, but because they unknowingly make interview mistakes that weaken their answers. Learn how to fix these mistakes and present yourself the U.S. way.
Can Financial Hardship Help You Stay in the US?
Financial hardship can qualify some J-1 teachers for a 212(e) hardship waiver, but only in specific, well-documented situations. This guide explains who may qualify, what USCIS considers “exceptional hardship,” and what options remain if the waiver is not the right path.
I Started Teaching SPED in the U.S.—and I Realized, Nobody Prepared Me for IEPs.
Are you a first-year SPED teacher in the U.S. feeling lost with IEPs? You’re not alone. This gentle starter bundle helps you finally understand IEPs with clarity, real examples, and guided support—so you don’t just comply, you truly understand.
Is NIW Even for Teachers Like Me?
NIW is not just for “extraordinary” teachers. It’s for teachers whose work truly makes a difference — especially those serving high-need, underserved, or specialized student populations. Most teachers are already doing NIW-worthy work, but they don’t realize it — and they aren’t documenting it. This post explains why NIW is possible for teachers like you and how to start preparing early.
Called or Merely Curious? The Real Difference Between Wanting to Teach in the U.S. and Being Chosen for It
Many teachers want to teach in the U.S., but only a few are truly called. This post explores the waiting season, mindset, and tenacity needed to succeed.
Interested in SY 2026–2027? Send your résumé to apply@teach-usa.net
Humanitarian Relief for J-1 Teachers: Who Qualifies and What to Know
Many J-1 teachers fear returning home when conditions change—whether due to conflict, persecution, or personal threats. This guide explains what “humanitarian relief” really means, who may qualify, and the risks to your J-1 program so you can make informed decisions about safety, status, and next steps.
J-1 With U.S. Spouse/Child: Is WAIVER the Next Best Step?
If you have a U.S. citizen spouse or child, a J-1 waiver may help you stay in the United States and pursue long-term immigration options. But timing matters. Learn the pros of seeking a waiver, why working with an immigration lawyer helps, and when delaying the waiver might actually be the better choice.
NIW for J-1 Teachers: Myths vs. Truth
Confused about the NIW and how it affects your J-1 visa? Discover the myths and truths every international teacher needs to know before taking the next step.
NIW vs. 212(e) Waiver: What Every J-1 Teacher Needs to Know
The 212(e) waiver and the NIW are not the same. One removes the J-1 home residency rule, while the other opens a green card pathway. Here’s what every teacher should know—and why timing is critical.
212(e) Hardship Waiver or Persecution Waiver: Your Options
The 212(e) rule requires some J-1 teachers to return home for two years—but there are exceptions. The Hardship Waiver and the Persecution Waiver offer possible paths to stay, especially for those with U.S. family or facing conflict back home.
Her J-1 Was Approved Before—But Denied Now. Here’s Why.
She once held a J-1 visa and even worked in the U.S. on H-1B. But when she applied for another J-1, the consul said no. Here’s what happened—and the lesson for other teachers.