IAG Teacher Journey
Your Journey to Teaching in the USA
Whether you're just exploring the opportunity or preparing your application, we'll guide you through every step—from your first question to your first day in an American classroom.
*Timelines vary depending on document readiness, interview availability, school district hiring schedules, and government processing.
2027–2028 recruitment cycle: School interviews typically begin around March and may continue through spring and summer. Applying early gives you time to complete your documents before districts begin reviewing candidates. Even if you applied in a previous cycle or reached Interview-Ready status, you must submit a new application for the current cycle.
Before you begin
What to Know About the Process
The IAG Teacher Journey is not a fixed countdown. Some steps take minutes, others take weeks, and school interviews depend on district hiring calendars and available positions.
From eligibility through teaching in the United States.
A common timeframe for preparing documents and the credential evaluation.
When many school districts begin interviewing candidates.
The initial cultural exchange period after you begin teaching.
Watch the overview
See the Journey in Two Minutes
Start with a quick overview, then explore each step below for the details, timing, and next action.
The complete process
9 Steps From Eligibility to the Classroom
Each step has a different purpose. Move through them in order and use the related links when you need more detailed information.
Verify Your Eligibility
Answer a few quick questions about your degree, supervised teaching practice, English level, and teaching experience. You'll receive an immediate indication of whether you meet the basic requirements, may need additional review, or should prepare for a future cycle.
Prepare Your Documents
Gather your passport, teaching license, resume, English test results, employment verification, and academic records. Complete your Foreign Credential Evaluation, which compares your education with the U.S. education system. This is often the longest preparation step, so beginning early matters.
Submit Your Application
Submit a complete application for the active recruitment cycle. IAG uses a new application each cycle to confirm that your contact information, documents, teaching experience, English level, and availability are current.
Ready for District Interview
Your application has been reviewed and your profile is ready to be considered by IAG partner school districts. Becoming Interview-Ready means you may be invited to interview when your background matches a district's staffing needs. It does not guarantee an interview, job offer, or specific timeline.
Interview With Schools
Meet with interested school districts to explore available positions and determine whether the opportunity is a good fit. Interview timing depends on each district's hiring needs, not the order in which candidates applied. Depending on interest and available openings, you may receive more than one interview.
Receive a Letter of Intent
A school district extends a Letter of Intent confirming its intent to hire you. At this step, your visa sponsor and exact program fee are confirmed. No program payment is required before this point.
Complete the Visa Process
IAG supports your DS-2019 and J-1 visa process from start to finish. Processing time depends mainly on appointment availability at your local U.S. embassy or consulate, so beginning as soon as you're selected gives you the greatest flexibility.
Arrive and Complete Orientation
Complete your move and orientation with your host school. Your Teacher Support Specialist helps you prepare for relocation, housing, banking, travel logistics, and communication with your school before your first day. Eligible spouses and unmarried children under age 21 may be eligible to accompany you under J-2 dependent status, subject to the required visa process and approval.
Begin Teaching in the USA
Welcome to your classroom and the beginning of your three-year cultural exchange. You continue receiving support through your Teacher Support Specialist and the Teacher Resource Hub, including guidance for your required cross-cultural activities.
Your experience with IAG
What You Can Expect Along the Way
Clear Next Steps
Each step has a defined purpose, and IAG explains what you need to complete before moving forward.
Personalized Support
Your recruitment and support teams guide you through application, interviews, visa preparation, relocation, and your exchange.
Realistic Timelines
Some steps depend on school district calendars and government processing, so patience and early preparation are important.
Ready to get started?
Everything You Need Before You Apply
Now that you understand the full Teacher Journey, use these resources to prepare for the parts of the process that apply to you.
Do You Meet the Requirements?
Complete the two-minute eligibility check and review the basic education, English, supervised teaching practice, and experience requirements.
Check your eligibility → Get preparedRequired Documents
See what you need before applying, including your passport, resume, teaching license, English test, and Foreign Credential Evaluation.
Review documents → Plan aheadFinancial Considerations
Understand program-related costs, government fees, and other expenses you should consider as you plan your journey.
Review financial information → Bringing your family?Family & Dependents
Learn what to consider if eligible family members may accompany you during your cultural exchange.
Explore family information → When you're readySubmit Your Application
See the complete PowerSchool application process, including how to create your account, upload documents, and submit your application.
See how to apply → Need more information?Find the Information You Need
Visit the IAG Help Center for detailed guides, answers to common questions, document instructions, and additional support.
Visit the Help Center →Frequently asked questions
Questions About the Teacher Journey
How long does the IAG Teacher Journey take?
There is no fixed timeline. Document preparation may take two to six weeks, school interviews typically begin around March and may continue through summer, and visa processing depends on appointment availability at your local embassy.
When do school interviews begin?
Many school districts begin interviewing around March and continue through spring and summer. Timing varies by district, subject area, grade level, and available openings.
What does Interview-Ready mean?
Interview-Ready means your application has been reviewed and your profile can be considered by IAG partner school districts when your background matches their staffing needs. It does not guarantee an interview, job offer, or a specific waiting period.
What happens after a school interview?
After an interview, the school district may need time to compare candidates, review staffing needs, and make a decision. The review period varies by district, and there is no fixed timeline. IAG will share updates as they become available.
Do I need to apply again if I applied before?
Yes. A new application is required for every recruitment cycle, even if you previously reached Interview-Ready status. This allows IAG to confirm your information, documents, experience, English level, and availability are current.
When are program fees confirmed?
Your exact program fee is confirmed after a school district extends a Letter of Intent and your visa sponsor is identified. No program payment is required before that point.