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Educational Options
Taking a post-secondary course is a great opportunity for au pairs to pursue a new interest, experience campus life, and meet new people. The U.S. Department of State requires that all au pairs complete not less than six semester hours (or their equivalent) of academic credit in formal educational settings at accredited U.S. post-secondary institutions. As a condition of program participation, the host family must agree to facilitate the enrollment and attendance of au pairs in accredited U.S. post secondary institutions and to pay the cost of such academic course work in an amount not to exceed $500. Au pairs are required to physically attend such courses and participation in certain types of "educational substitutions" such as study tours, distance learning courses, and volunteer do not satisfy the educational requirements of the program.
Below are answers to some common questions to help you explore your options!
What is an accredited institution?
An accredited institution is one that has been granted accreditation by a regional or national accrediting commission of schools and colleges. Being 'accredited' means the school reached a standard level of educational quality.
What is meant by post-secondary?
Post-secondary means the institution that offers at least a one-year program of college-level studies. Post secondary literally means "after secondary". In America, secondary school ends after grade 12, usually when a person is 18 years old (grades 9-12 are often referred to as high school). Most Au Pairs will attend a two-year community, technical, or junior college or a four year college or university.
What is meant by an "academic credit"?
An academic credit is generally equal to 10 hours of class time. A class which meets for 3 hours a week for approximately 10 weeks would be the equivalent of a 3 credit course.
How can I locate a post-secondary accredited institution in the area that I live in?
Your local field staff representative will provide you information on the local institutions that meet the Department of State's standards. In addition, below are two popular websites which will help you locate a post-secondary accredited institution in you area.
www.utexas.edu/world/comcol/state/
www.utexas.edu/world/univ/state/
Earn $1000 more as
an AuPairCare au pair!
In July, the au pair weekly stipend will increase: this means you can earn over $9000 a year as an au pair!
