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​Benefits of Participating 

Exchange teachers sharpen their professional skills and participate in cross-cultural activities in schools and communities in Illinois and return to their home school after the exchange to share their experiences and increased knowledge of U.S. culture and customs and the U.S. educational system. 

Program Duration 

J-1 teachers may teach in the U.S. for 3 years and may be eligible to extend their teaching for an additional one or two years with Department of State approval.  

Participant Requirements 

Prospective teachers can review J-1 teacher requirements at the U.S. Department of State J-1 Teacher Program page​. 

DS-2019 

The form DS-2019 or “Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status” is the basic document used in the administration of the exchange visitor program. This form permits a prospective exchange visitor to seek an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate to obtain a J visa to enter the United States. 

The DS-2019 is issued by the sponsor once the prospective exchange visitor has been screened and selected for participation in the exchange visitor program.

Insurance 

Program participants and their dependents are required to have medical insurance coverage with the following minimum benefits [22 CFR 62.14]: 

  • Medical benefits of at least $100,000 per accident or illness 
  • Repatriation of remains in the amount of $25,000 
  • Expenses associated with the medical evacuation of the exchange visitor to his or her home country in the amount of $50,000 
  • A deductible not to exceed $500 per accident or illness 

Sponsors will verify that each participant’s medical insurance meets the regulatory requirements.

Illinois Teaching Licensure

Visiting International Teachers (VITs) are required to apply and be approved for an Educator License with Stipulations for Visiting International Teachers (ELS-VIT) before they begin teaching in Illinois. See details regarding the license below:

Details ELS-VIT License
Requirements
  1. Submit a foreign credential evaluation reflecting the equivalent to a bachelor’s degree or higher, completed in an education program for the grade and subject to be taught in the United States.
  2. Submit proof of English proficiency with TOEFL or Cambridge English Assessment results.
  3. Pay the application fee of $150 and the registration fee of $60.
Years Valid 5 years
Endorsements Awarded
  1. Bilingual education (language specific)
  2. English as a second language
  3. Foreign language (language specific)
  4. Content area of preparation
Availability The ELS-VIT is only available for educators who are part of the U.S. Department of State’s BridgeUSA Program and are in Illinois on a J-1 visa.
Renewable No

English language proficiency test options for ELS-VIT applicants

ELS-VIT applicants must prove English proficiency by receiving the passing scores identified on one of the following two exams: 

Fees and Cost of Living Expenses

VIT Program Fees

Sponsor fee: None

U.S. federal government fees

  • SEVIS fee: $220 (one-time)
  • J-1/J-2 visa application fee: $185 (per each visa)

English proficiency test fees (varies between exam centers)

Foreign educational credential evaluation: $200–$400

Illinois educator licensure fees

  • ELS-VIT license application fee: $150
  • License registration fee: $60

Host district criminal background check fee: ~$50 

International Partner Fees

Spain: None

Mexico: None

Poland: None

Morocco:

  • International teacher training and preparation – 1,000 Moroccan Dirhams (DHM)
  • TEAM registration fee – 200 DHM
  • Program administration fee – 2,000 DHM

Expected Employee Salary Deductions

Health Insurance

  • Individual: $50–$200/month
  • Family: $500–$2,000/month

Please note that exact costs will vary between host school districts. Please consult your district's HR staff for specific guidance. If you already have a health insurance policy that meets the U.S. Department of State minimum health insurance requirements and covers your health expenses in the U.S., you may opt out of your district's health insurance if you wish.

Teacher's union dues: $50–$60/month (union members only)

Retirement System (TRS) Contribution: ~9% of annual gross income

Illinois State tax: 4.95% of net income

Medicare and Social Security (FICA) tax: 7.65% of gross income

Federal income tax – Please refer to the figures below for the federal tax rates for tax year 2024. Please note that this may not necessarily be your applicable tax rate as there are tax deductions and exemptions you may be eligible for. Please consult irs.gov, your district's HR staff, and/or a tax professional for further guidance.

  • 35% for incomes over $243,725 ($487,450 for married couples filing jointly)
  • 32% for incomes over $191,950 ($383,900 for married couples filing jointly)
  • 24% for incomes over $100,525 ($201,050 for married couples filing jointly)
  • 22% for incomes over $47,150 ($94,300 for married couples filing jointly)
  • 12% for incomes over $11,600 ($23,200 for married couples filing jointly)

Estimated Cost of Living Expenses

Housing rental

  • $800–$1,600/month for studio or 1 bedroom
  • $1,200–$2,000/month for 2 bedrooms
  • $2,000+/month for 3+ bedrooms
  • Additional $220/month in utility bills for electricity/gas/water

Food

  • $500/month per individual adult
  • $1,500/month for family of 4 with 2 children

Local Transportation

  • $800/month (insurance, gas, and maintenance costs for personal vehicle)
    • The vast majority of host districts are in areas easiest to navigate by car. If you plan to purchase a car after arrival, we recommend budgeting an extra $5,000+ depending on the type of car you are interested in buying.

Cell phone and data plan: $50–$150/month

In-home internet: $50–$100/month

Childcare: $10,000–$14,000 per year (based on all-day care for infant to age 4)

These estimates are based on average cost of living data in Illinois and feedback from  VITs. Budgets may vary depending on placement location and personal preference. Your host district can connect you with local resources for housing, transportation, phone/internet, banking, etc. in preparation for your arrival. ​​​

Teachers’ Retirement System

Webinar Archives
​American Culture 101 presentation​Go To Meeting Link – A basic guide on American Culture and what to expect during your transition to the U.S.

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