Local exchange student coordinator

The exchange organization you work with pays you, funded by the fees that students and their families pay for the program.

Usually a payment or stipend per student placed and supported, sometimes with bonuses. Terms vary by organization, so compare several before signing.

• Warm, trustworthy people skills
• Organized with paperwork and follow-up
• Comfortable talking with families, teens and school staff

• Only work with a sponsor that is properly designated for J-1 secondary school programs; check the State Department's list and ask about CSIET listing
• Check whether you are treated as an employee or independent contractor, and what that means for your taxes and insurance
• Host family screening, student safety rules and regular check-in requirements are strict, so make sure you can meet them
• Income depends on how many placements you secure, and it is often seasonal, so don't count on a steady monthly amount
• Check city or county rules and HOA or lease terms if you meet families at home

Startup costs are typically around $300 to $1,500, depending on your setup and sponsor requirements. Monthly income is estimated at roughly $400 to $2,000, but it depends on the placements you secure and is often seasonal.

Only work with a sponsor properly designated for J-1 secondary school programs. Check the State Department's list and ask about CSIET listing. Also check whether you are treated as an employee or independent contractor, and what that means for taxes and insurance.

As an estimate, plan on at least around 6 hours a week. Host family screening, student safety rules and regular check-in requirements are strict, so make sure you can meet them before you commit to a sponsor.