Transparent Costs. No Sponsorship Fees. Ever.

TPG never charges teachers for visa sponsorship. Understand all program costs upfront so you can plan confidently for your teaching journey in America.

Our Commitment: Zero Fees for Teachers, Complete Transparency

Unlike many J-1 visa sponsors, TPG Cultural Exchange does not charge any fees for sponsorship and refuses to work with third-party recruiters who charge teachers. Your only expenses are standard application costs required by U.S. government agencies and personal living expenses. We provide detailed cost information so you can budget effectively and arrive prepared.

Understanding Your Financial Investment in the Program

Initial Application & Visa Processing Expenses

One-time costs required by government agencies and credential evaluation services before arriving in the United States. 

  • NACES credential evaluation: $220-$280
  • J-1 visa application fee: $185 (non-refundable, paid to U.S. Consulate)
  • SEVIS fee: $220
  • Criminal background checks: $10-$200 (varies by country)
  • English proficiency exam: $100-$200
  • Medical exams and required tests (varies by country)
  • State teaching licensure: $50-$400 (depends on state and program length)
  • Licensure exams (if required): up to $200 per test
Your Competitive Salary in the United States

Earn the same salary as American educators with equivalent qualifications. Compensation ranges from $35,000 to $85,000 annually. 

SALARY RANGE: $35,000 - $85,000 per year

Based on district salary schedule, your degree(s), and years of K-12 teaching experience

Tax Withholdings & Deductions: What to Expect from Pay

U.S. salaries are subject to federal and state taxes plus FICA deductions. Total taxes typically range from 15-35% of salary. 

  • Federal income tax: 10-37% of salary
  • State income tax: 0-7% of salary (varies by state)
  • FICA taxes (Social Security & Medicare): 0-8% of salary
  • Optional union dues: up to $1,000 annually
  • Retirement contributions: up to 7% (varies by state)
Health Insurance: Compliant Coverage at No Cost to You

TPG provides required Department of State-compliant health insurance at no monthly premium cost for all J-1 visa participants. 

Your coverage includes:

  • Medical benefits: minimum $100,000 per illness/accident
  • Emergency medical evacuation: $50,000
  • Repatriation of remains: $25,000
  • Maximum deductible: $500 per illness/accident

J-2 dependent coverage: $70-$400 monthly (your responsibility)

Note: Co-pays and deductibles apply when receiving care, as with all U.S. health insurance

Monthly Living Expenses: Budget for Family of Three

Plan for typical monthly costs including housing, food, transportation, and utilities. Amounts vary significantly by location. 

ESTIMATED MONTHLY EXPENSES (Family of 3):

  • Rent: $750-$2,000
  • Food: $500-$1,500
  • Utilities & Phone: $100-$1,000
  • Transportation: $250-$1,000
  • J-2 Health Insurance: $70-$400
  • Childcare (if needed): up to $1,000/week per child
Program Extension Costs: Years Four and Five

If you choose to extend your program beyond three years, minimal additional fees apply for visa extension and certification.

Extension costs after year three:

  • SEVIS fee: $367 (J-1 teacher's responsibility)
  • Teaching certification extension: up to $100 (varies by state)

Why TPG's Financial Model Benefits Everyone Involved

Zero Fees for Teachers = Ethical Recruitment

We never charge sponsorship fees or work with recruiters who do. Your money stays in your pocket where it belongs from day one.

Salary Equity = Respect for Your Profession

Earn the same compensation as American teachers with similar qualifications. No wage discrimination on our watch, ever.

Transparent Information = Confident Decision-Making

Every cost listed upfront with no surprises. We provide complete financial breakdowns so you can plan properly before committing.

Common Questions About Program Costs

Does TPG charge any fees for J-1 visa sponsorship?

No. TPG Cultural Exchange does not charge any fees for visa sponsorship and does not work with any third-party recruiters or agencies that charge teachers fees. If anyone has requested payment for TPG sponsorship, please contact us immediately at admin@tpgculturalexchange.com. Your only costs are standard government fees required by U.S. agencies and personal living expenses.

Will my salary be enough to cover my expenses in the United States?

Salaries are designed to be equivalent to American teachers with similar qualifications, ranging from $35,000 to $85,000 annually. However, living costs vary significantly by location and family size. We recommend bringing $1,500-$2,000 in personal funds for initial setup costs and maintaining savings for unexpected expenses. Review our detailed budget breakdown to assess whether the salary meets your specific needs.

What financial support does TPG provide for teachers?

TPG provides J-1 visa participants with compliant health insurance at no monthly premium cost to you. We also offer free pre-departure financial planning guidance, post-arrival orientation covering banking and budgeting in the U.S., and ongoing support throughout your program. For J-2 dependents, you are responsible for their health insurance premiums ($70-$400 monthly depending on family size and ages).

Can I bring my family, and what are the additional costs?

Yes, spouses and children under 21 can accompany you on J-2 visas at no processing fee from TPG. Additional costs include J-2 health insurance premiums ($70-$400 monthly), increased housing and food expenses, and potentially childcare costs (up to $1,000 weekly per child). You must demonstrate sufficient funds or salary to support your family before J-2 visas are issued.

Are there any hidden costs I should know about?

There are no hidden costs. All potential expenses are disclosed upfront, including initial application fees, monthly living expenses, tax withholdings, and optional costs like union membership. The main variables are your location's cost of living and your family size. We encourage thorough budget planning before committing to ensure the program is financially feasible for your situation.

What if I need additional financial resources during my program?

We recommend maintaining personal savings throughout your program for unexpected expenses. Your salary is taxed like any U.S. employee, and living costs can fluctuate. J-2 visa holders may apply for work authorization (EAD fee: $410) to supplement household income. TPG provides ongoing guidance on budgeting and financial resources available in your area.

How do taxes affect my take-home pay?

Your employer withholds federal taxes (10-37%), state taxes (0-7%), and FICA taxes (Social Security and Medicare, 0-8%) from each paycheck. Total tax withholdings typically range from 15-35% of your gross salary. Some teachers may qualify for tax treaty benefits based on their country of citizenship. We recommend consulting with a tax professional familiar with J-1 visa taxation.

What happens if I cannot afford the initial costs to join the program?

Unfortunately, initial government-required fees (approximately $625-$1,000 for visa processing and credential evaluation) and travel costs are unavoidable requirements. We recommend planning and saving in advance. Some teachers arrange payment plans with credential evaluation companies. If cost is a significant barrier, we suggest exploring local scholarship opportunities or education ministry support programs in your home country.

Resources to Help Start Your Journey

Ready to Plan Your Financial Future as a U.S. Teacher?

Schedule a free consultation to discuss program costs in detail, review budget planning strategies, and get answers to your specific questions.