Best Gap Year Programs in the USA: Become an Au Pair!

Thinking about taking a gap year? You’re not the only one, as more and more young adults around the world are pressing pause before diving into college or the working world to do something a little different. Whether it's to travel, gain life experience, improve your language skills, or simply take a breather, a gap year can be one of the most rewarding decisions you ever make.

If you’re looking for a meaningful, affordable, and adventure-filled way to spend your year abroad, working as an au pair in the United States might just be the perfect fit. It’s a unique opportunity to live with an American family, care for children, immerse yourself in a new culture, add skills to your resume, and earn money. Plus, it gives you the chance to travel and explore the USA!

In this guide, we’ll explain what you need to know about au pair gap year programs in the USA, and how AuPairCare supports you through your journey. We’ll cover:

1. The benefits of an au pair gap year
2. How the au pair program works
3. How AuPairCare helps with visa support and finding safe au pair jobs
4. How to become an AuPairCare au pair

If you're still weighing your options, use this guide to learn more. Or, if you think you’re ready to begin your gap year adventure, start your AuPairCare application here!

Why Choose an Au Pair Program for Your Gap Year?

When it comes to taking a gap year, your options are wide open, from volunteering in Africa to backpacking through Europe or interning in Asia. But if you're looking for a program that combines culture, offers a salary, furthers your education, and helps you grow, becoming an au pair in the U.S. checks all the boxes! Here’s why an au pair program stands out among the many gap year choices out there.

An Authentic American Experience

As an au pair, you won’t just visit the U.S., it will be your second home. You’ll become part of an American family, joining them for meals, holidays, and everything in between. You’ll learn and see so much more than you would as a tourist, giving you the chance to deeply understand American culture, values, and family traditions.

You might find yourself sitting down at the table for your first Thanksgiving dinner, soaking up the sunshine at a backyard Fourth of July barbecue, or exploring the sights of the nearest big city. By the end of your placement, you’ll know what it’s really like to be an American, and there’s a good chance your hosts will feel more like your second family.

Affordable Travel Opportunity

Let’s face it, many U.S. gap year programs are amazing but expensive. Travel, accommodations, food, insurance, and activities can add up quickly. But with an au pair program, you’re not just spending money, you’re earning it! As an au pair in America, your host family provides you with free room and board, meals, and a weekly stipend.

On top of that, you’ll receive an education allowance to take classes. That means you can explore the U.S. on your time off without draining your savings account. Whether you're dreaming of a weekend in Chicago, a beach trip to California, or hiking in the Rockies, you’ll have the time (and money!) to make it happen.

Building Valuable Life Skills

Gap years are all about having fun, but the best ones also help you grow as a person. Being an au pair certainly does that, as you’ll take on real responsibilities and learn important life skills. From managing your time and money to problem-solving on the fly, you’ll gain a lot of confidence and independence.

Caring for children also helps you develop patience, creativity, and communication skills; qualities that are useful in any future career. In fact, many recruiters and employers see the value of child care experience, whether you’re heading into education, business, healthcare, or anything in between.

Language and Education Benefits

One of the main program benefits of being an au pair in the U.S. is how much your English will improve. By chatting with your host family, making new friends, and taking college classes, you’ll get real-world language practice in a supportive environment, and you’ll learn so much faster than you would in a classroom!

This doesn’t just mean you can watch Netflix without subtitles, it’s also a big bonus for your job prospects. More and more employers are looking for candidates with multilingual backgrounds, and developing your English skills is a great way to send your resume to the top of their list.

Plus, there’s an educational component to the au pair program in the U.S. You’ll be able to take college classes at an accredited U.S. university or college, and your host family will contribute $500 toward your studies. It’s another great way to help yourself grow during your year abroad.

Personal Growth and Lifelong Connections

Stepping out of your comfort zone to work and travel in the USA isn’t easy, but it’s one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do. You’ll become more independent, self-aware, and open to different ways of thinking. You’ll discover strengths you didn’t know you had and learn to navigate challenges with confidence.

And the connections you make? They’ll last far beyond your work experience abroad program. Whether it’s your host family, other au pairs, or classmates, you’ll build friendships from around the world and create a global support network that could last a lifetime.

What Is AuPairCare?

If you’re thinking of becoming an au pair in the U.S., you’ll want a program that’s experienced, trustworthy, and dedicated to your success, and that’s exactly what AuPairCare is all about. We’ve been matching international au pairs with American host families for decades, helping young adults like you experience life in the U.S. while creating unforgettable memories.

What We Do

AuPairCare is a U.S. Department of State-designated au pair agency, which means we’re officially recognized to support international au pairs coming to the U.S. through the J-1 cultural exchange visa program. But more than that, we’re here to support you from the moment you apply to the day you return home (and beyond!).

Here’s how it works:

• We help match you with a carefully screened American host family that’s the right fit for your personality, experience, and goals
• We assist you through the J-1 au pair visa process and provide all the tools you need to get to the U.S. safely and legally
• Once you arrive, you’ll attend AuPairCare Connect in New York City, our orientation event covering childcare, safety, and life in the U.S., plus you’ll have a chance to explore NYC!
• During your program, we offer 24/7 emergency support, regular check-ins, and local Area Directors who are there to help you adjust and thrive

Basically, we’ve got your back every step of the way!

Why Choose AuPairCare for Gap Year Programs in the USA?

There are a lot of ways to spend a gap year, and even a few different au pair agencies out there. But here’s why AuPairCare is one of the most trusted names in the field (and why thousands of au pairs choose us each year):

• Experience you can count on: We’ve placed over 100,000 au pairs since 1989. That’s a lot of happy matches, amazing stories, and cultural exchange success.
• Carefully matched families: We take the time to get to know you and your preferences, to make sure your host family is a great fit. Whether you're hoping to care for toddlers or school-age kids, live in a big city or a quiet suburb, we help find the best match possible.
• Support system from day one: Our local Area Directors aren’t just points of contact, they’re real people you’ll meet in person and who’ll be there for you throughout your year. Plus, our 24/7 emergency line means help is always just a phone call away.
• Fun, friendly community: You’ll have the chance to meet other au pairs at local events organized by your Area Director. You can travel together on weekends and stay in touch long after your cultural exchange program wraps up.
• Flexible options: Want to stay longer than a year? We can help with that! Many of our au pairs choose to extend their stay for an additional 6, 9, or 12 months. You can stay with your current host family (assuming they agree) or we can help you find a new match.

At the end of the day, our goal is simple: to help you have the best gap year possible. We prioritize au pair safety and make sure your time in the United States is as memorable and rewarding as you’d hoped.

How the Au Pair Program Works

While the idea of being able to travel and work abroad, care for children, and explore a new culture sounds exciting, we’re guessing you probably have a few questions. Here’s a breakdown of the au pair program details so you’ll know exactly what you’re signing up for (and why so many people say it’s the best decision they ever made!).

Basic Requirements to Become an Au Pair

Before you start packing your bags, there are a few requirements you’ll need to meet in order to qualify for the U.S. au pair program. These rules are set by the U.S. Department of State, and they help make sure that au pairs and host families alike have a safe and successful experience. To become an au pair, you must:

• Be between 18 and 26 years old
• Have good spoken English (you don’t need to be fluent)
• Have at least 300 hours of childcare experience (babysitting or tutoring count)
• Be able to provide two separate references
• Be a high school graduate (or equivalent)
• Be in good health and able to pass a criminal background check
• Have a valid driver’s license and experience driving
• Be available to commit to a 12-month program

If you meet these criteria and have a passion for working with kids, you’re already off to a great start! You can learn more about the program and eligibility for au pairs here.

Responsibilities of an Au Pair

So, what does an au pair actually do? First and foremost, you’ll become part of a host family’s daily life and provide live-in childcare support. Your typical responsibilities might include:

• Getting the kids ready for school in the morning
• Preparing simple meals and snacks for them
• Driving them to and from school or activities
• Helping with homework
• Organizing fun, age-appropriate activities and games to keep them entertained
• Helping keep the kids’ areas tidy

Most au pairs are asked to do light household duties that relate to the children, like keeping their bedrooms clean and doing their laundry. When you’re not caring for the kids, you’ll have plenty of time to explore your new surroundings, complete your college credits, make friends, or just relax and recharge.

What You Receive as an Au Pair

Now let’s talk about the fun stuff, which is what you get out of the program! Here’s what you’ll receive when you become an au pair through AuPairCare:

• Careful host family matching (talk to several families before making a mutual decision)
• Visa support
• Pre-departure childcare training (online videos, tutorials, and lessons)
• A private room and full board in your host family’s home (no rent or grocery bills!)
• An au pair salary of at least $215 (some families offer more!)*
• Up to $500 in educational support for college courses
• Travel opportunities during time off and after your program ends
• Support from a local Area Director and 24/7 emergency assistance
• An invitation to Au PairCare Connect in New York City

And most importantly? You’ll gain confidence, independence, real-world skills, lifelong friendships, and a second family you’ll never forget, just like these AuPairCare au pairs:

“I just finished my AuPair program in Orlando, Florida with AuPairCare! I had a great experience and an even greater Area director who was always there for me and the other AuPairs! I‘m so blessed that I found new friends for life and I‘m looking forward to staying in touch with all the AuPairs and my area director!!!!” -Anna, Au Pair

“I’ve had a great experience with AuPairCare! The matching process was smooth, and I felt supported throughout every step. My placement with my host family has been amazing, and I’m so grateful for this opportunity. The agency provided all the necessary guidance, and I always feel like I have someone to reach out to if needed. I highly recommend AuPairCare to anyone considering the au pair program!” -Melissa, Au Pair

How to Become an AuPairCare Au Pair

Ready to turn your gap year into an unforgettable American adventure? Becoming an au pair through AuPairCare is pretty simple, and we’ll guide you through every step. From applying and matching with a host family to receiving your visa and arriving in the U.S., we’re here to make sure everything runs smoothly.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Here’s how to become an au pair in the United States with AuPairCare:

1. Create your profile: Start by filling out an online application that includes your personal info, childcare experience, and photos. This is your chance to show families who you are!
2. Submit documents: You’ll upload references, your school certificate, a doctor’s form, a background check, and more. We’ll let you know exactly what’s needed.
3. Interview: You’ll have an interview with an AuPairCare representative, but don’t worry! It’s casual and designed to make sure you’re ready for the experience.
4. Get accepted: Once your application is complete and approved, you’re ready to begin the matching process!

Matching With a Family

Here’s where things get exciting: you’ll start connecting with American families who are looking for an au pair just like you! Once your profile is live, families can view it and request interviews with you. You’ll have video chats with potential host families, where you can ask questions and get a feel for what life with them would be like.

When you and a host family decide you're the right fit for each other, it's a match! We’ll never rush you into choosing your host family; we want to make sure it’s a good mutual fit, and you can talk to multiple families before making a match. From there, we help you with the next steps, including flights, training, visa paperwork, and more.

The J-1 Visa for U.S. Au Pairs

To join the au pair program in the U.S., you’ll need a J-1 Cultural Exchange Visa, and AuPairCare is authorized by the U.S. Department of State to sponsor it. Here’s how it works:

1. Once you’re matched with a host family, we’ll provide the DS-2019 form (your official visa sponsorship document).
2. You’ll schedule an appointment at your nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate to apply for the visa.
3. You’ll attend a visa interview, bring your documents, and, if all goes well, you’ll be approved!

This visa allows you to live and work as an au pair in the U.S. for 12 months, with the option to extend for an additional 6, 9, or 12 months.

Training and Orientation

While you’re waiting for your J-1 visa, you’ll be able to complete your AuPairCare online training modules, a requirement before you can travel to the United States. These training sessions will cover childcare basics, first aid, and more.

Once it’s time to travel, we’ll fly you to AuPairCare Connect, our unique orientation event in New York City. Here, you’ll have a chance to connect with other au pairs, meet some of our program staff (many used to be au pairs themselves!), and ask any questions you still have about the program. Plus, you’ll get a full day to tour NYC, one of the world’s most iconic destinations!

Then, it’s time to meet your host family, connect with your local Area Director (your AuPairCare contact for anything you need during your time in the U.S.), and start your incredible journey as an au pair.

Become an Au Pair in the USA and Make Your Gap Year Unforgettable!

Sure, a gap year is a break from school, but it’s also a chance to step outside your comfort zone, explore the world, and learn more about yourself. And what better way to do that than by becoming an au pair in the United States?

You’ll have the unique opportunity to live with a host family, experience everyday American life, improve your English, earn au pair pay, take classes, and build lifelong connections. It’s affordable, adventurous, and one of the most meaningful ways to spend a year abroad.

At AuPairCare, we’ve helped thousands of young people turn their dream of living in the U.S. into reality. From matching with a great family to navigating the visa process and preparing for your arrival, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

So, if you’re ready to make your gap year more than just a “year off,” let AuPairCare help you take the leap. You can start your AuPairCare application here!

*The U.S. Department of State calculation of the minimum weekly stipend is based on the federal minimum wage with a 40% deduction for room and board in exchange for childcare services. AuPairCare minimum weekly stipend is $215 per week which is higher than the U.S. Department of State minimum. Host families and au pairs are free to agree to a weekly stipend even higher than the $215 per week minimum.