Educational Career Training in the USA - IEC
Educational Career Training in the USA
Educational Career Training (ECT) is a structured J-1 Intern/Trainee program that combines professional training in U.S. K–12 schools with a cultural exchange experience. It is designed for international university students, recent graduates, and early-career professionals who want practical exposure to education, student services, and school operations in a real American school setting.
Educational Career Training in the USA
Welcome to Educational Career Training (ECT) — a year-long, school-based training program in the USA designed for international students and early-career professionals who want real experience in American K–12 schools.
ECT combines professional development and cultural exchange through the J-1 Intern/Trainee format. Over one school year (typically August to June), you will join a host school community and follow an approved Training Plan (DS-7002) with clear learning goals and responsibilities. Depending on your placement, you may support teachers and students in the classroom (Educational Support) and/or assist with daily school routines and operations (School Operations Support).
This program is a great fit if you want a structured international experience, improved professional English, and a strong addition to your CV — while discovering U.S. culture from the inside.
Why choose ECT
SEVIS fee: $220
Insurance (school year): $780
Installment plan processing fee: $200
Cancellation fee (incl. visa denial): $1,000
Total estimate:
$4,200 (full payment or deferred balance option)
$4,400 (installment plan option)
- Program administration & support throughout the process
- Review of your eligibility and application materials
- Preparation and approval of your Training Plan (DS-7002)
- Issuance of your DS-2019 (required for the J-1 visa application)
- Program insurance for the school year
- U.S. Embassy/Consulate visa application fee
- Flights to/from the USA
- Housing and meals in the USA
- Local transportation (public transport, rides, etc.)
- Personal expenses
What the program provides:
- Placement in a U.S. K-12 school for the full school year (subject to selection)
- Approved Training Plan (DS-7002) aligned with your track and background
- DS-2019 issuance for J-1 visa processing
- Program support before departure and during the year
- Required program insurance (as listed in fees)
- 32–40 hours/week
- Approx. $15/hour (varies by placement)
To join ECT, you must:
- Meet J-1 Intern or Trainee eligibility criteria (based on your education and/or experience)
- Have a relevant education background for school-based training
- Have sufficient English to work in a school environment
- Be able to commit to the full school-year dates (late arrival/early departure not allowed)
- Be financially prepared for start-up and living costs in the USA
- Bachelor’s degree is required
- No extensions
- No second job
- No J-2 dependents
- You cannot resign or change host employer without approval
Programs have fixed dates. Confirm the start date of your chosen program with your IEC coordinator. Submit your application 4–6 months before the program start date.
Got questions?
We’ll be happy to answer them!
Feel free to drop by our office — we’ve taken part in exchange programs ourselves many times, so we can share our personal experiences and impressions and help you choose a program and find temporary summer work in the USA and other countries around the world.
