Teacher Program Fees

J-1 Teacher Program USA

We strongly encourage teachers to come to the US prepared to cover living expenses and deposits for at least 2 months prior to receiving your first paycheck. Please keep in mind, these are estimates based on national and state averages, and these will vary widely depending on your additional resources section at the bottom of this document. As always, the information provided by HRC is not guaranteed and is just a starting point for you.

Remember to always do your own research!

Predeparture Expenses

  • $1,505 for the J-1 visa 
  • $220 SEVIS fee 
  • $185 consulate appointment fee in your home country
  • Airfare, depending on season and location ($500-$1500)

Startup Expenses

Startup expenses provided are an estimated range based on a national average. Additional costs may be incurred depending on your specific situation. You should expect to arrive in the US with these fund, and enough for living expenses during your first 2 months in the US before you are able to receive your first paycheck. Along with living expenses, you will need to be able to cover the costs of obtaining your teaching license, fingerprints, background check, and any other documents required by your host school. 

SpanTran is HRC's recommended international transcript evaluation service. They have created a custom application for HRC International to ensure that the right kind of evaluation is selected at a discounted rate. 

Chartt 1

Recurring Monthly Expenses

Recurring monthly expenses refer to the costs you can expect to be made each month after you arrive in the US. These are all going to pertain to your living expenses and vary depending on your location and lifestyle. There's a comprehensive tool  available to compare living expenses per city. 

Chart 2

Taxes/Deductions

Taxes and deductions are going to be taken directly from your paycheck before you receive it. These will vary widely depending on several factors including filing status, state, city, municipality, union participation, insurance selection, etc. The taxes and deductions listed below are the standard deductions you can expect to have held from your paycheck each pay period. Check out this comprehensive Tax Witholding Estimator.

Chart 3

Other Expenses

  • Program amendment fee $250
  • Transfer of program $695
  • Travel validation (expedited) $50 ($100)
  • J-2 dependent visa fee $750
  • J-2 program and insurance fee $45-$100 (depending on coverage) per month
  • Host organization site visit fee $200
  • Annual renewal fee J-1 $1000 and J-2 $500
  • Extension of program beyond max duration $1000 + $367 mandatory Department of State fee

Please note: rates are subject to (annual) increases and are not guaranteed to remain the same for the duration of your program. 

Partner Fees

Sometimes HRC works with third-party agents. These agents (often in your home country) might charge you an additional fee for services such as assistance with the search for a host employer, arranging travel and accommodation upon arrival, education accreditation or other services but this fee should never exceed $2,500-$3,000. Recent Partners:

  • Minga House Foundation: No charge to teachers
    • Colombia https://www.mingahouse.org/
  • Teach-USA: $2,743
    • USA https://www.teach-usa.net/
  • Career Studios: $3,500
    • USA https://careerstudios88.com/
  • Jobs Connect USA: $0
    • USA https://www.jobsconnectUSA.com/
  • Ninth Level International: $3,500
    • USA https://www.ninthlevelinternational.com/
  • C and F Staffing Company: $2,500
    • USA https://www.cfstaffingcompany.com/
  • RCC Staffing: $1,500
    • USA https://www.rccstaffingUSA.com/
  • Colorado Learning: percentage of salary up to $3,500
    • USA https://coloradolearning.com/

Would you like to find out more? Call us on +1 404 257 9400 or send your resume to teach@hrc-international.com

Refund Policy

We strongly discourage applying if you are not 100% sure. Nevertheless, upon acceptance by the employer, no refund of the program fee, insurance fee or visa fee is issued, except when: a) serious personal injury or death in the immediate family (parent or sibling) or b) denial of visa issuance by the immigration authority prevents you from starting the placement. If the application is cancelled before forms DS-2019 is issued, 100% of the paid J-1 visa fee and 100% of the paid program- and insurance fee minus a $200 non-refundable administrative fee is refunded. After Form DS-2019 is issued, but before arrival in the US, 50% of the paid J-1 visa fee and 100% of the paid program- and insurance fee minus a $200 non-refundable administrative fee is refunded. No refunds of any kind are issued after arrival in the US. SEVIS fees are non-refundable. In the event that you have prepaid program- and insurance fees, 100% of the prepaid months minus an admin fee of $25 will be refunded in full only for the full months that are unused. For refunds of the free visa program, scholarship program or financial aid program other rules may apply. 

What's Included in Your Program Fee

Visa Sponsorship & Documentation

Complete visa sponsorship as a designated sponsor, including form issuance, registration, and all required documentation for your consulate appointment.

Comprehensive Insurance Coverage

Medical and health insurance that meets the visa requirements, plus 24/7 emergency support throughout your program. Your safety and wellbeing are our top priorities.

Dedicated Career Consultant

Your personal go-to person throughout the entire journey. From application to arrival and beyond, you'll have one dedicated consultant who knows your goals and supports your success.

Additional Costs to Consider

Beyond program fees, here are typical expenses to budget for your international experience. Costs vary by location and personal circumstances.

Visa Application Fees
  • U.S. Consulate J-1 visa fee: $185 (approximate, subject to change)
  • Passport photos and document translations: $50-$150
  • Travel to consulate appointment: varies by location
Transcript Evaluation (Teachers)
  • International transcript evaluation: $150-$300
  • We partner with SpanTran for discounted rates for HRC participants
Travel & Relocation
  • International airfare: $500-$2,000 depending on origin country
  • Initial housing deposits: $500-$2,000 (varies by location)
  • First month living expenses: $1,500-$3,000 recommended savings
Additional Program Requirements
  • Background checks and certifications: $100-$300
  • Medical examinations (if required): $100-$250
  • State-specific teaching certifications (teachers): varies by state

Flexible Payment Options Available

We understand that financing an international career opportunity requires planning. That's why we offer flexible solutions to make your dreams achievable.

Spread-Out Payment Plan
Make your program fee payment in installments rather than one lump sum. Details provided after employer acceptance.
Culinary Candidate Special Benefit
Qualified culinary arts candidates may be eligible for free visa sponsorship. Contact your career consultant for eligibility requirements.
Scholarships & Financial Assistance
Limited scholarships available based on merit and financial need. Inquire during your application process about current opportunities.
Early Payment Discount
Special rates may apply for participants who can pay program fees in full prior to standard deadlines.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fees

When do I need to pay my program fees?

No payment is required until after you've been accepted by your host employer or school. For USA hospitality programs, initial payment is due after you're hired. For teacher programs, payment is due after school placement confirmation. We never ask for upfront fees before you have a confirmed placement.

Are there any hidden fees I should know about?

Absolutely not. We believe in complete transparency. Our program fee includes visa sponsorship, insurance, and dedicated support services. Additional costs like consulate fees, travel expenses, and living expenses are clearly outlined during your consultation. Your career consultant will provide a comprehensive breakdown of all expected costs.

Can HRC provide financial assistance or loans?

While HRC cannot provide direct loans, we offer spread-out payment plans and may have limited scholarships available. We also work with financial service partners and can provide guidance on funding options. Additionally, culinary candidates may qualify for free visa sponsorship.

What happens if my visa is denied?
In the rare case of visa denial, we'll work with you to understand the reason and explore options for reapplication if applicable. Our refund policy details will be outlined in your program agreement. We've successfully sponsored thousands of visas over 30 years and will thoroughly prepare you for your consulate appointment.
How much money should I bring with me to the USA?

We recommend having at least 2 months of living expenses saved (approximately $2,000-$4,000 depending on your placement location). This covers initial housing deposits, transportation setup, and daily expenses until your first paycheck.

Are program fees tax-deductible?

Tax regulations vary by country. We recommend consulting with a tax professional in your home country about potential deductions for education or professional development expenses. We can provide documentation of your program fees for your tax records.

What's included in the insurance coverage?

Your comprehensive health and medical insurance meets all J-1 visa requirements and includes coverage for medical emergencies, hospitalization, and emergency medical evacuation. Full policy details are provided upon enrollment. You also have access to 24/7 emergency support throughout your program.

Can I work additional hours to earn more money?

J-1 visa programs have specific work hour regulations. Hospitality management trainees typically work 32-40 hours per week. Teachers work standard full-time hours per their contract. Your program agreement and visa regulations will specify your authorized work hours. Additional employment outside your program is not permitted under J-1 visa regulations.

Ready to Invest in Your International Career?

Let's discuss how our transparent fee structure and flexible payment options can work for your situation. Your dedicated career consultant is ready to answer your questions.