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Paying

J-1 Program Costs & Salary Expectations
(Estimates)

Meeting

Program Fees

Your total cost may include:

  • SBSC processing and guidance fees

  • Sponsor organization fees

  • Visa application fees (U.S. Embassy)

  • SEVIS fees

  • Airfare

  • Health insurance

  • Relocation costs

(Exact fees will be provided during consultation.)

Salary Expectations

State

School district

Subject taught

Years of experience

Most J-1 teachers earn $45,000–$60,000 USD per year, depending on:

This is a full-time salaried teaching role.

Pre-arrival Costs

Visa Application Fee: $185

SEVIS Fee: $220

Flight/ travel to host school: $1,200

Transcript Evaluation/ Translation: $250

Initial 1-1 Consultancy: $25

Monthly living expenses typically include:

Your SBSC advisor will help you evaluate affordability based on your placement state.

Costs Upon Arrival

State IVP Card: $67

International Teaching Certification: $120

Housing deposit: $3,400

Other settling in expenses: $1,000

Funds needed immediately. Estimated $6,000

Your SBSC advisor will help you evaluate affordability based on your placement state.

Cost of Living Overview

Housing: $1,000–$1,700

Housing Utilities: $250

Public Transportation: $75

Internet: $65–$100

Meals: $350–$600

Transportation: $450–$700 (car payments + insurance)

Cell phone: $100

Medical Insurance: $50

Entertainment/ personal expenses: $400

J2’s Insurance: $100

Childcare Expenses: $350

Monthly living expenses typically include:

Your SBSC advisor will help you evaluate affordability based on your placement state.

Close-Up of Dollar

Important Budget Notes

  • Many teachers purchase a car early on (common in the U.S.)

  • Housing deposits may require 1–2 months of rent upfront

  • First salary is usually received 4–6 weeks after arrival

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