Amity Institute

Building International Friendship and Cultural Understanding Through Teaching Exchange.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where in the U.S. will I be placed and how long can I stay?
Amity Institute can sponsor qualified individuals for full-time paid teaching positions at accredited K-12 schools where a need for educators exists.  Participants must secure their own teaching position and are employees full time directly by the host school.

  • The duration of each teaching program is determined by the host schools.
  • Programs can last up to three years, with the possibility to extend for an additional two years (for a maximum of five years).
  • Upon complete, participants must return to their home country to fulfill the exchange, and may not return to the United States for at least two years. 
What type of school will it be?
International Teachers are employed throughout the U.S. in rural, suburban or urban areas. Participating schools include accredited public, private and charter schools, as well as religious and foreign language immersion schools.  International Teachers can only work with primary or secondary level students (K-12th grade). 
Do I need a U.S. teaching license or other form of certification to teach in the U.S.?
International Teachers will have to comply with the teacher certification process “in the state in which they are employed” and may be asked to take a basic skills test where math aptitude, reading comprehension, and analytic ability will be tested.  They may also have to take additional classes in teaching methodology, psychology, basic skills or a variety of other subjects. 
How will I find housing? Who will pay for it?
The International Teacher must be financially able to support his/her family and will be responsible for their own living expenses, including visa required sickness/accident insurance.  While Host Schools are encouraged to arrange initial housing for the International Teacher with a host family for the first few weeks after arrival, this is not guaranteed.  This is something you will need to work out with your employer ahead of your U.S. arrival. 
What are my financial responsibilities?

Fixed Costs:

  • $200 non-refundable application fee – payable to Amity after your eligibility has been established by our staff.
  • $200 J2 application fee (one time fee per immediate family member)
  • $220 SEVIS Fee (one time fee paid directly to the U.S. government)
  • Administrative Fee – paid per school year, due after arrival in the U.S. This fee may be paid by or shared between the applicant or school.
    • The administrative fee fully covers all necessary processing associated with your program and there are no additional fees for regular program maintenance, travel validation signatures needed to reenter the United States, or reissuing a lost DS 2019 form. Amity Institute is a nonprofit organization that strives to keep our costs low so that cultural exchange is possible for everyone. These fees are subject to review and adjustment and deemed appropriate. Below is the fee schedule (according to the teacher’s program participation year) for the 2022-2023 school year:
      • Year 1: $1500
      • Year 2: $1000
      • Year 3: $750
      • Year 4: $1000
      • Year 5: $750
    • Amity does not work with third party agencies that require teachers to pay fees to that agency or any individual.

Please note: All required fees paid to Amity are non-refundable. 

Costs that vary by country:

  • Visa application fee (approximately $160)
  • Health Insurance and evacuation/repatriation costs – currently $97 per month for the teacher through an Amity endorsed insurance policy.  Dependent’s insurance premium is slightly higher.
  • Personal expense money for the initial costs upon arriving to the U.S., prior to receiving your first paycheck. It is important to understand that International Teacher wages may not cover all expenses while living in the United States. It is imperative that International Teachers bring additional personal funds to provide financial security and support as needed. For information regarding estimated costs of living in different regions of the United States, visit the Economic Policy Institute’s Family Budget Calculator.
  • Certification or licensure costs at U.S. school

 

Living Cost in the United States:

  • The United States is a very large country. Living costs may vary greatly based on where your school is located, the type of housing you choose, the availability of public transportation, and the number of individuals in your family. Below are some average costs to assist you in budgeting:
    • Housing- You should expect to spend, on average, between $1100 and $1600 per month on rent.
    • Transportation- Transportation costs represent the second largest monthly expenditure for the average American Family. The average American family spends between $850 and $900 per month for transportation.
    • Food costs- The United States Department of Agriculture reports that the average American Family spends approximately $350 per individual each month for food. Fee for Employment Authorization Form I-765 – for J-2 dependents who wish to work in the United States.
  •  It is important to understand that International Teacher wages may not cover all expenses while living in the United States. It is imperative that International Teachers bring additional personal funds to provide financial security and support as needed. For information regarding estimated costs of living in different regions of the United States, visit the Economic Policy Institute’s Family Budget Calculator. 
What support will Amity provide?
From preparing for your visa appointment, to your very last day in the United States, Amity Institute is here to support you. Each participant is assigned to an individual Program Counselor, whose main responsibility is to ensure that every teacher’s experience goes as smoothly as possible.
What is the general structure of U.S. schools?
U.S. schools are generally divided into the following age groups:

  • Elementary: 5-11 years of age
  • Middle/Jr. High: 12-14 years of age
  • Secondary (High School): 15-18 years of age
What is the teaching philosophy of most American schools?
In the United States, students and teachers tend to have less formal relationships and more relaxed standards of behavior and discipline.  Students can be extremely vocal and outspoken.  There is a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities and sports.  There is a high rate of parent participation in the schools and classrooms. 
Can my spouse and children come with me to the U.S.?
Applicants may request authorization for dependents to accompany them to the U.S. (spouse or children under 21 years of age).
Will my spouse be allowed to work in the U.S.?
Yes, after completing an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). This process can take up to 6 months.

https://j1visa.state.gov/basics/j2-visa/

How long can I stay after my assignment?
From the end date of your program (as listed in SEVIS and your Form DS-2019), you and any dependents will have 30 days to leave the United States. You may travel within the U.S. during this time but once you leave, you will not be able to reenter on your J Visa or DS 2019 form. If you need to end your program early, your program will be shortened and the 30 day grace period will still apply. If your program is terminated for serious violations, the grace period will not apply and you must leave the U.S. immediately.

Am I allowed to travel during my program?
Yes. International Teachers are encouraged to see and experience as much of the United States as possible during their assignment! Teachers and their dependents may also travel internationally, but they must have a valid travel signature on their form DS 2019 to reenter the United States. Make sure to inform Amity at least three weeks before you leave for a trip so we can provide this signature. Additionally, you should check the entry requirements for the country you wish to visit, as your visa does not permit you to enter any country besides the United States.
Am I allowed to pursue any other paid opportunities outside of my position with the U.S. Host School?
NO! This is a violation of the J1 visa. 

Eligibility Requirements

 

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This experience changed my life! Now, I have more dreams and some other goals. I'm so thankful for everything that I've learned. I want to continue growing as a human and as a teacher. The Amity program is one the best things that ever happened to me." - Michelle, 2018-2019 Intern

We have been working with Amity for several years. Learning about different cultures, communities, traditions, music, arts, dances and more, helps our students to see the world as a global place fostering diversity and respect. Having a second adult in the classroom helps our teachers to be able to have more individualized attention to students and work on small groups. Amity has been a wonderful organization to work with, reliable and accessible, bringing highly qualified young people to work in our school."- Maria Buceta Miller, Amity School Coordinator, John Stanford International School

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Exchange Visitor Program Sponsor 🇺🇲 (BridgeUSA)
International friendship+cultural understanding through teaching exchange 🌍
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Amity Institute
Congratulations to Leo, Intern at Lake Elmo Elemen Congratulations to Leo, Intern at Lake Elmo Elementary School, for being the second winner of Amity’s Emily Stowell Scholarship! 

Your school community is very thankful and appreciative of all the work you have done this year, all of your efforts did not go unnoticed. Thank you to your school for nominating you and congratulations on behalf of the entire Amity team!! 🥳

#j1 #bridgeusa
Congratulations to Carlota, Intern at La Academia, Congratulations to Carlota, Intern at La Academia, for being one of Amity’s Emily Stowell Memorial Scholarship winners! 

All of your hard work this year surely did not go unnoticed. Thank you to your school for nominating you and congratulations on behalf of the entire Amity team!! 🥳

#j1 #bridgeusa
Congratulations to Lisandro for winning third plac Congratulations to Lisandro for winning third place in Volunteerism! 

“The goal of Free Cycles is to help Western Montana transition to a sustainable transportation system while simultaneously setting a strong example for other places. Free Cycles provides bicycles, parts, tools, work space, and help for a healthy community. Our programs focus on re-purposing unused bicycles to reduce pollution and increase freedom, empowerment and social change.

Volunteering in free cycle has made me more aware of natural phenomena are becoming more extreme, and humanity must act as soon as possible. I am happy to contribute a little to social and environmental change’s around the world.” 🇸🇻

#j1 #bridgeusa
Congratulations to Igancio for winning second plac Congratulations to Igancio for winning second place in volunteerism! 

“The context of this picture is on Christmas days.  Last year my host family started to do a fundraiser for the kids in the salvation army with the goal to give them money to buy new toys for the families that can't buy toys. They did again this year too. We cooked cupcakes and we prepared a spot in front of our house to sell it. We also asked our neighbors for help and we got down to work. We spend all afternoon and night until really late selling the cup cakes and trying to earn as much as possible. I was so enthusiastic to help with this idea. I wear a Saint Claus costume and make the fundraiser more special. We published the fundraiser on Facebook and in other social media. A lot of people came, some with small kids and they also took pictures with me and asked for their presents. Other ones only wanted to give us money and they didn't buy any cupcakes or come and also help a few minutes talking with us and making a better environment. For me was a really special moment, I never lived anything similar and probably was one of my best experiences here. Also a couple of days  before the TV comes to our house to talk with the kids and with my host mum. The experience was amazing. I really want to share with you. I put down the link to the video made for the Dakota New and the picture that I attached is me wear the custome of santa and my hot brother Lucas.” 🇪🇸

#j1 #bridgeusa
Congratulations to Lorena for winning first place Congratulations to Lorena for winning first place in Volunteerism! 

“During the inclussion week we had different activities, the week was finished with a Polar plunge were you jump and donate for the life skills program. My host-sister Lillian who is 10 years old and I jumped to colaborate in this project.” 🇪🇸

#j1 #Bridgeusa
Congratulations to Laurie for winning third place Congratulations to Laurie for winning third place in the Host Family category! 

“This photo shows all the members of my first host family: Lea and Thomas, their wonderful twins Conrad and Vanessa, and baby Evelyn. I spent the Thanksgiving holiday with them, which was a first-time event for me. For the occasion, we went to Memphis, Tennessee, to join other family members. It was a great trip, combining cultural discovery and sharing time with an incredible family. Knowing that we weren't going to spend the Christmas holidays together, they still wanted to mark the occasion and give me matching pajamas. I was very touched by this because it was a family tradition and they had already had these pyjamas for several years. By making this gesture, they showed me how much I was integrated and loved as a true member of their wonderful family.” 🇫🇷

#j1 #bridgeusa
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