Teacher Journey · Financial Planning
Financial Considerations
Understanding program fees, government fees, credential evaluation costs, insurance coverage, and estimated living expenses will help you plan your transition to the United States with confidence.
At a glance
What You Should Know Before You Apply
When fees become due
Your Financial Timeline
Understanding when costs occur can help you prepare without feeling pressured to pay too early.
No payment is required.
Credential evaluation and document-related costs may apply.
No program fee is due at this stage.
Your exact program fee is confirmed.
Government fees, travel, and living expenses apply.
Program & sponsor fees
What You Pay to IAG
These fees cover the administration and support provided throughout your participation in the exchange program.
IAG program fees cover administrative costs for screening, orientation, and supervision of participants, as well as your supplementary medical insurance — from departure from your home country until you transfer to your school's medical insurance coverage, including repatriation and evacuation coverage throughout the program.
IAG Visa Sponsor Fee — $2,600 plus a $200 application fee. Covers your visa sponsorship and application processing.
U.S. government fees
What You Pay to the U.S. Government
These fees are paid directly to the U.S. government and are separate from program and sponsor fees.
Each additional: $250
Before you apply
Foreign Credential Evaluation Fees
Before your academic credentials can be reviewed for U.S. equivalency, you will need a foreign credential evaluation from an approved agency. The evaluation must meet the requirements of the state or licensing authority where you will teach.
Estimated living costs (vary by location)
Planning Your Budget
Every teacher's financial situation is different. Living expenses vary based on state, city, housing choice, family size, and transportation. These figures are planning estimates only and actual costs may vary significantly.
3–4.4% state
7.65% FICA
More specific cost information for each area is available in the FAQ section and in the IAG Handbook, provided to all participants upon acceptance.
What's included
Coverage That Comes With Your Program Fee
IAG's supplementary medical insurance is included in your program fee — from departure until you transition to your school's insurance coverage, including repatriation and evacuation coverage.
Included in Your Program Fee
- Supplementary medical insurance
- Repatriation coverage
- Evacuation coverage
- Program orientation
- Participant supervision and support
Participant Responsibility
- Medical premiums not covered by the policy
- Out-of-pocket medical expenses
- Housing and transportation
- Daily living expenses
- Costs for J-2 insurance enrollment
Medical insurance premiums or out-of-pocket expenses not covered by the medical insurance policy are the participant's responsibility — supplementary insurance is included, but coverage has limits. See the FAQ on insurance for details.
Download the Budget Exercise
Review detailed cost ranges by location and organize your estimated expenses before moving to the United States.
We strongly encourage you to work directly with IAG and avoid paying fees to any third-party recruitment or placement agency in your home country or the U.S. If you're already registered with one, please disclose the fees paid and share a copy of your agreement with your Recruitment Specialist.
Financial questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Direct answers to the financial questions international teachers ask most often.
How much does the IAG teacher exchange program cost?
The IAG Visa Sponsor Fee is $2,600 plus a $200 application fee.
When do I pay the program fee?
No program payment is required until you receive a Letter of Intent from a school district.
Are U.S. government fees included?
No. Government fees are separate from program fees. The listed visa application fee is $185 and the SEVIS fee is $220.
How much does a foreign credential evaluation cost?
The listed fee is $150 through Alianza Academic Evaluations, plus translations and verification if requested.
Is medical insurance included?
IAG supplementary medical insurance is included from departure until you transition to your school medical insurance coverage. Repatriation and evacuation coverage are included, but policy limits and participant expenses may apply.
What living expenses should I prepare for?
Plan for travel, housing and deposits, utilities, transportation, food, childcare if applicable, personal expenses, possible licensure exams, and taxes. Costs vary by location and family circumstances.
Should I pay a third-party recruitment agency?
IAG strongly encourages you to work directly with IAG and avoid paying fees to third-party recruitment or placement agencies. Disclose any existing agreement and fees to your Recruitment Specialist.
Continue Your Teacher Journey
Review your eligibility, prepare your documents, and move forward when you are ready.