FAQ's - Teachers
Q: How long does the Skill-Link USA placement process usually take? A: Every case is unique, but from initial consultation to placement, the process typically takes 2–6 months, depending on district needs and visa processing timelines.
Q: Do I need to find my own housing? A: No. Skill-Link USA assists you with the entire housing process, helping you secure safe, affordable accommodations close to your assigned school.
Q: Will I be supported after I arrive in the United States? A: Absolutely! We continue providing personalized support, including help with community integration, ongoing mentorship, and emergency assistance.
Q: What expenses should I prepare for? A: You’ll be responsible for travel and living costs, including housing, transportation, and day-to-day expenses. We recommend bringing at least $3,000 in initial funds to help with early costs before your first paycheck. See our Fees Info page.
Q: What happens if I have an issue at my school? A: We encourage you to first speak with your host school administrators. However, Skill-Link USA remains available to support you with any concerns you may have.
Q: Can I bring my family with me on a J-1 visa? A: Yes! Eligible family members (spouse and/or children under 21) can apply for J-2 visas. We can guide you through the steps involved.
Q: Will I be teaching at a public or private school? A: Most Skill-Link USA placements are in public school districts, but opportunities in charter or private schools may also arise depending on district needs.
Q: Do I have to renew my visa every year? A: No. Your J-1 visa is initially valid for up to three years. Extensions may be requested if you meet eligibility requirements at the end of your third year.
Q: What kind of professional development is available during my program? A: Many host schools offer internal professional development workshops. Skill-Link USA also provides resources and ongoing mentorship opportunities to support your growth.
Q: Will Skill-Link USA assist me if I want to extend my stay beyond the original program length? A: Yes, we will advise you on extension options and help you coordinate necessary steps with your visa sponsor and district.
FAQ's - School Districts
Q: What subjects are your teachers qualified to teach? A: Our participants specialize in high-need subject areas such as Math, Science, Special Education, English Language Arts, and more.
Q: What does the district need to provide? A: The district simply hires the teacher as they would any regular employee. Skill-Link USA and the visa sponsor handle the rest of the compliance and program requirements.
Q: Are there any fees to the district for using Skill-Link USA? A: No. Districts incur no placement fees or service costs when partnering with Skill-Link USA.
Q: How long are the teachers eligible to stay? A: Teachers typically stay for three years, with an option to extend for up to two additional years, depending on visa eligibility.
Q: What support does Skill-Link USA provide to the district? A: We assist with acquiring the specific talent your district requires, onboarding paperwork, ensuring teachers licenses are acquired for each participant, visa compliance questions, ongoing participant support, and communication with visa sponsors to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Q: How are Skill-Link USA candidates screened? A: All participants undergo rigorous interviews, background checks, credential evaluations, and reference verifications before being recommended for placement.
Q: What happens if a teacher leaves before completing the program? A: In rare cases where early departure occurs, Skill-Link USA and the visa sponsor work together to minimize disruption and assist the district in finding a replacement if desired.
Q: Are Skill-Link USA teachers licensed to teach in the state where they are placed? A: Yes. Skill-Link USA helps participants obtain the appropriate temporary or professional license required by your state’s Department of Education.
Q: What kind of support does Skill-Link USA offer during the school year? A: We remain in close communication with both teachers and HR teams, providing support with compliance paperwork, cultural adjustment challenges, and administrative assistance.
Q: Can districts request teachers for specific subject areas or grade levels? A: Absolutely! We work collaboratively with districts to understand your needs and match you with teachers whose backgrounds and certifications align with your openings.