Au Pair Educational Options

Taking an educational class is a great opportunity for au pairs to improve their English, pursue a new interest, experience campus life, and meet new people. The U.S. Department of State requires that all au pairs complete six semester hours of academic credit at an accredited post-secondary institution. Au Pair Care host families will contribute up to $500 towards their au pair’s academic course work. View our New English Language & Culture Classes!

Au pairs are required to physically attend their courses.  "Educational substitutions" such as online classes, distance learning courses, and volunteering do not satisfy the educational requirements of the program. Below are answers to some common questions to help you explore your au pair educational 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 that 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. Information is also available in Au Pair Room in the "My Location" section.