Easy way to apply for teaching job in USA as a non citizen.
Meet Educational Requirements
Bachelor’s Degree:
Obtain a bachelor’s degree in education or in the subject you wish to teach. Degrees from foreign institutions must be evaluated for equivalency in the U.S.
Teacher Preparation Program:
Complete an accredited teacher preparation program. This may involve additional coursework if your previous education doesn’t meet US standards.
Have your academic credentials evaluated by a recognized credential evaluation service. This evaluation will compare your foreign qualifications to U.S. standards and determine if additional coursework is required.
Credential Evaluation
Have your academic credentials evaluated by a recognized credential evaluation service. This evaluation will compare your foreign qualifications to U.S. standards and determine if additional coursework is required.
Pass Required Exams:
Pass the necessary certification exams for the state where you plan to teach. These often include basic skills tests, subject matter exams (like the Praxis series), and pedagogy exams.
Obtain State Certification
Apply for a teaching license or certification in the state where you wish to teach. Each state has its own requirements, which may include background checks and verifying your educational qualifications.
Obtain Work Authorization:
Visa Options: Non-citizens need work authorization to teach in the U.S. Common visa options include:
H-1B Visa: For positions requiring specialized knowledge. Schools must sponsor this visa.
J-1 Visa: For exchange visitors, including teachers in exchange programs.
F-1 Visa (Optional Practical Training – OPT): For international students who have completed a degree in the U.S. and seek temporary employment in their field of study.
Permanent Residency (Green Card): If you have permanent residency, you can work without needing a separate visa. Some schools may sponsor teachers for a green card.
Complete Student Teaching:
Fulfill any student teaching requirements as part of your teacher preparation program. This provides practical classroom experience under the supervision of a licensed teacher.
Apply for Teaching Positions
Once certified and authorized to work, you can start applying for teaching positions. Prepare a resume, cover letter, and any necessary documentation to demonstrate your qualifications.
Continue Professional Development
Engage in ongoing professional development to maintain your certification and stay current with educational best practices. This might involve additional coursework, workshops, or professional learning communities.
Additional Considerations:
State-Specific Requirements: Each state has its own certification process and requirements, so check with the state’s Department of Education for specific information.
Language Proficiency: You may need to demonstrate proficiency in English, which could involve passing language proficiency tests.
Resources
U.S. Department of Education: Provides information on state certification requirements and recognized credential evaluation services.
National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES): Lists recognized credential evaluation services.
By following these steps and ensuring you meet both educational and immigration requirements, you can pursue a teaching career in the United States as a non-citizen.