How to Get a Job in the U.S. as a Filipino Teacher

It seems that Filipinos dreaming of a teaching job in the U.S. will now see their dreams come true, at least for a while. Apparently, there’s currently an experiment going on, with teachers from abroad being recruited to teach in schools in the States. To some, it looks like an act of desperation, as more and more American teachers give up on their profession due to the low salaries. As such, the number of Filipino teachers in the USA has grown. What opportunities do Filipinos have? Read to find out.

Are There Teaching Jobs for Filipinos in the U.S.?

Teaching jobs are available in the U.S. for Filipinos, particularly due to a teacher shortage. Many American teachers are leaving the profession due to low salaries, with some earning as little as $10,000, below the national average. In contrast, Filipino teachers in the U.S. can earn around $40,000, significantly more than what they would at home. In 2017, around 2,800 foreign teachers, including 472 Filipinos, arrived in the U.S. on J-1 Visas, indicating a strong demand for Filipino teachers amidst a lack of interest from American educators.

Visas Available for Filipino Teachers in the U.S.

Filipino teachers have several visa options for working in the USA, each with its unique requirements and duration. Here’s an overview:

H-1B Visa

• Type: Non-immigrant visa for specialty workers.
• Duration: Initially 3 years, extendable up to 6 years.
• Requirements: Job must qualify under the visa program, possession of a U.S. bachelor’s degree or equivalent, and a cap on the annual number of visas.

J-1 Visa

• Type: Non-immigrant visa for teachers, scholars, or exchange visitors.
• Duration: Valid until the end of the exchange program plus an additional 30 days.
• Requirements: Good reputation, minimum 2 years teaching experience, bachelor’s degree or equivalent, currently employed as a teacher, and meet the destination state’s requirements.

P-3 Visa

• Type: For teachers, coaches, artists, or entertainers in culturally unique programs.
• Duration: Up to 1 year.
• Requirements: Participation in a group or individually in a culturally unique program.

O-1 Visa

• Type: For individuals with extraordinary abilities in various fields including education.
• Duration: Up to 3 years, extendable by 1 year.
• Requirements: Demonstration of extraordinary ability and recognition in their field.

R-1 Visa

• Type: For foreign nationals teaching religious subjects.
• Duration: Up to 60 months with extension.
• Requirements: Teaching must be related to religion.

Q-1 Visa

• Type: For participation in international cultural exchange programs.
• Duration: Up to 15 months.
• Requirements: Involvement in cultural exchange programs showcasing one’s country’s culture, history, and traditions.

Each visa type offers Filipino teachers a pathway to share their skills and knowledge in the U.S. while complying with specific immigration requirements.

Salaries for Teachers in the U.S.

Salaries for teachers in the U.S. may vary on the state and school they are working for. Back in 2017, the median salary used to be $59,170 for high school teachers, while the best-paid ones earned $75,970 that year. Meanwhile, those with the lowest income earned as much as $45,990.

As mentioned, the highest high school salaries can differ from a state to another. Alaska has the highest mean salary, of $85,420, and it’s followed by New York with $83,360 and Connecticut with $78,810.

Also, high school teachers earned a little more compared to similar jobs. In 2017, while high school teachers had an average salary of $62,860, middle school ones earned $61,050, elementary school ones $60,830, and sports coaches about $42,540.

Where Are There Opportunities in the U.S. for Filipino Teachers?

The United States offers a variety of opportunities for Filipino teachers, reflecting a diverse landscape of needs and benefits across different states. This segment explores the current landscape of opportunities for Filipino educators in the U.S.

High Demand Across States

The U.S. has been experiencing a significant teacher shortage, with an estimated deficit of at least 112,000 teachers as of 2018. This shortage has led to some school districts hiring teachers without proper licenses or relying on long-term substitutes. However, a more sustainable solution has been the employment of Filipino teachers, who are highly regarded for their expertise and dedication. Over 500 public schools in at least 19 states have welcomed Filipino teachers on J-1 visas, demonstrating a widespread demand across the nation.

Salary Insights

Salaries for teachers in the U.S. can vary greatly depending on the state and the school. As of 2017, the median salary for high school teachers was approximately $59,170, with the top earners receiving around $75,970 and the lower end earning about $45,990. States like Alaska, New York, and Connecticut are among the top payers, with average salaries of $85,420, $83,360, and $78,810 respectively. This presents a lucrative opportunity for Filipino teachers, especially considering these salaries are significantly higher compared to what they might earn back home.

Spotlight on Hawaii

A notable example is Hawaii, which recently welcomed 80 Filipino teachers to help fill the state’s teacher shortage. These teachers, most of whom possess advanced degrees and extensive experience, are on a special J-1 visa valid for up to 5 years. Despite Hawaii’s high cost of living, which has led many local teachers to leave, Filipino teachers have stepped in to fill the gap, highlighting both the demand for their skills and the willingness of Filipino teachers to adapt to different environments.

Best Lenders for Personal Loans

Avant (Best for Quick Approval)

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Avant Personal Personal Loan

4.0

Stilt’s lender ratings reflect the findings and opinions of our editorial staff. Our scoring methodologies consider a wide array of factors and data points for every lender, offering, and financial solution.

Min. credit score

550

Fixed APR

9.95-35.99%

Variable APR

N/A

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Overview

• Minimum credit score: 550.
• Fixed APR: 9.95-35.99%.
• Loan amounts: $2,000-$35,000.
• Repayment: 1 to 5 years..

Qualifications

• Strong credit and income may secure lower rates, but not mandatory.
• Must possess a bank account in good standing under your name.
• A valid Social Security number is required.
• Bankruptcy should not be active.
• Minimum credit score of 550; using FICO score version 8 and VantageScore version 3.
• Minimum monthly net income: $1,200 from various sources including employment, alimony, retirement, child support, and Social Security payments.

Pros

• A dedicated mobile app is available for loan management.
• Offers a diverse selection of repayment terms.
• Customer service is accessible seven days a week.

Cons

• An origination fee might be applicable.
• They don’t offer co-signed, joint, or secured loan options.
• Direct payments to creditors aren’t available for debt consolidation loans.

AmOne (Best of Low Credit Score)

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AmOne Personal Loan

4.5

Stilt’s lender ratings reflect the findings and opinions of our editorial staff. Our scoring methodologies consider a wide array of factors and data points for every lender, offering, and financial solution.

Min. credit score

600

Fixed APR

3.99%-35.99%

Variable APR

N/A

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Overview

• Minimum credit score: 600.
• Fixed APR: 3.99%-35.99%.
• Loan amounts: $1,000 to $50,000.
• Repayment: 1 to 7 years.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
• While there’s no specific income requirement, a consistent source of income is essential for the applicant.

Pros

• Suitable for individuals with lower credit scores.
• No cost for the matching service.
• Attractive loan rates.

Cons

• Acts as an intermediary, not a direct lender.
• Risk of multiple contacts from prospective lenders.
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Upstart (Best for Fair Credit Score)

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Upstart Personal Loan

4.5

Stilt’s lender ratings reflect the findings and opinions of our editorial staff. Our scoring methodologies consider a wide array of factors and data points for every lender, offering, and financial solution.

Min. credit score

None

Fixed APR

4.60-35.99%

Variable APR

N/A

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Overview

• Minimum credit score: None.
• Fixed APR: 4.60-35.99%.
• Loan amounts: $1,000-$50,000.
• Repayment: 3 or 5 years.

Qualifications

• Hold U.S. citizenship or possess permanent residency.
• Be a minimum of 18 years old in the majority of states.
• Provide a valid email address and Social Security number.
• Be currently employed full-time or starting a full-time job within the next six months.
• Maintain an active bank account with a recognizable routing number.
• Not have declared bankruptcy in the past year.
• Ensure no delinquencies are present on their current credit reports.
• Record fewer than six hard credit inquiries in the past six months, excluding inquiries for student, auto, or mortgage loans.

Pros

• Welcomes first-time credit users.
• Provides quick fund disbursement.
• Allows flexibility in adjusting payment due dates.
• Offers pre-qualification through a soft credit inquiry.
• Customer support available seven days a week.

Cons

• Origination fee may apply.
• Does not offer joint, co-signed, or secured loan options.
• Lacks a mobile application for loan management.
• Limited to two loan repayment terms.

OneMain Financial (Best for Good Rates)

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OneMain Financial Personal Loan

4.5

Stilt’s lender ratings reflect the findings and opinions of our editorial staff. Our scoring methodologies consider a wide array of factors and data points for every lender, offering, and financial solution.

Min. credit score

None

Fixed APR

18.00-35.99%

Variable APR

N/A

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Overview

• Minimum credit score: None.
• Fixed APR: 18.00-35.99%.
• Loan amounts: $1,500-$20,000.
• Repayment: 2 to 5 years.

Qualifications

• Must possess a Social Security number or individual taxpayer identification number.
• Minimum age: 18 in most states.
• No set minimum credit score, but some credit history is preferable.
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Pros

• Flexibility to select and modify your payment date.
• Offers both joint and secured loan options.
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Cons

• Interest rates are relatively high compared to competitors.
• An origination fee is applicable.
• Doesn’t offer any rate discounts.
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• APR is not displayed during pre-qualification.

SoFi (Best for Good Credit Score)

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SoFi Personal Loan

5.0

Stilt’s lender ratings reflect the findings and opinions of our editorial staff. Our scoring methodologies consider a wide array of factors and data points for every lender, offering, and financial solution.

Min. credit score

600

Fixed APR

8.99-35.99%

Variable APR

N/A

View details

Overview

• Minimum credit score: 660.
• Fixed APR: 8.99-29.99%.
• Loan amounts: $5,000-$100,000.
• Repayment: 2 to 7 years.

Qualifications

• Targets borrowers with good to excellent credit; fair credit may qualify.
• Minimum credit score of 660.
• At least two years of credit history.
• Proof of sufficient income sources or employment offer starting in less than 90 days.
• Must be a U.S. citizen, a permanent resident, or a visa holder (J-1, H-1B, E-2, O-1, or TN).

Pros

• Soft credit check is available for pre-qualification.
• Offers high loan amounts.
• 0.25% rate reduction for auto pay.
• No origination fee.
• No prepayment penalty.

Cons

• Minimum 660 credit score required.
• Minimum $5,000 loan amount.

Read More

• J1 to Green Card: How to Become a Permanent Resident in the U.S.
• Guide to Teacher Visas in the USA
• J1 to H1B and J1 to F1: How to Change Your J1 Visa Status
• Can a J1 Visa Be Extended?
• How to Apply for a J1 Visa Waiver

Final Thoughts

Filipino teachers in the USA are becoming more common now that there’s a lack of teachers in the States. The salary is better for them than it would in the Philippines, while they’re also accomplishing their dream of working in the States. If you need more information, you can always count on us and visit the Stilt website.

FAQ for Filipino Teachers Seeking Jobs in the U.S.

What visa options are available for Filipino teachers wanting to work in the U.S.?

Filipino teachers can explore several visa options, including:

• H-1B Visa: For specialty occupation workers.
• J-1 Visa: For exchange visitors, including teachers and scholars.
• P-3 Visa: For artists, entertainers, or teachers in culturally unique programs.
• O-1 Visa: For individuals with extraordinary abilities in education and other fields.
• R-1 Visa: For teachers in religious occupations.
• Q-1 Visa: For participation in cultural exchange programs.

What are the salary prospects for Filipino teachers in the U.S.?

Salaries for teachers in the U.S. vary by state and school district. The median salary for high school teachers was around $59,170 in 2017, with top earners making up to $75,970. States like Alaska, New York, and Connecticut offer higher salaries.

Is there a demand for Filipino teachers in the U.S.?

Yes, there is a significant demand. Over 500 public schools in at least 19 states have employed Filipino teachers on J-1 visas. This demand is partly due to a nationwide teacher shortage.

What qualifications are needed for Filipino teachers to work in the U.S.?

Requirements vary by visa type, but generally, Filipino teachers should have:

• A bachelor’s degree or equivalent in education.
• Teaching experience (specific requirements depend on the visa).
• English proficiency.
• Credentials matching the requirements of the state they plan to teach in.

How long can Filipino teachers stay in the U.S. on a work visa?

The duration depends on the visa type:

• H-1B: Up to 6 years.
• J-1: Duration of the exchange program plus 30 days.
• P-3, O-1: Up to 1 year, extendable.
• R-1: Up to 60 months.
• Q-1: Up to 15 months.

re there specific states in the U.S. with higher demand for Filipino teachers?

Yes, states like Hawaii have actively recruited Filipino teachers to fill shortages. However, opportunities exist in various states, so it’s advisable to research specific regions for current demand.

Q7: What are the living conditions for Filipino teachers in the U.S.?

iving conditions vary based on location. States with higher salaries often have a higher cost of living. It’s important to research the specific area for cost of living, community support, and lifestyle.

Can Filipino teachers apply for permanent residency in the U.S.?

This depends on the visa type and individual circumstances. Some visas, like the H-1B, can lead to permanent residency, while others are strictly non-immigrant. Legal consultation is recommended for those seeking permanent residency.

Rohit Mittal

Rohit Mittal is the co-founder and CEO of Stilt. Rohit has extensive experience in credit risk analytics and data science. He spent years building credit risk and fraud models for top U.S. banks. In his current role, he defines the overall business strategy, leads debt and capital fundraising efforts, leads product development, and leads other customer-related aspects for the company. Stilt is backed by Y Combinator and has raised a total of $275M in debt and equity funding to date.

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