As a VIF teacher, you will earn a full-time salary in U.S. dollars for teaching in the U.S. The following information can help you understand more about your financial situation as a VIF teacher. In our experiences helping thousands of teachers teach in the U.S., we know it is very important for you to create a budget for living in the USA before you arrive. A budget will help bring direction and guidance to your financial life. Creating and adhering to a budget is your responsibility and will ensure that you have adequate financial resources to support yourself and/or your family while in the U.S.
Please remember that actual living expenses for teachers vary substantially depending upon individual circumstances and location.
Salaries
The average annual salary range for VIF teachers is approximately $28,000 to $48,000. VIF teachers' salaries are determined by their years of teaching experience and by the policies of the district and state in which they teach. In some cases, teachers may receive a higher salary for advanced degrees. In addition to the teacher's salary, some U.S. school districts offer supplemental pay. At the time a position is offered, VIF will provide teachers with an estimate of the salary and salary supplement (if one is available) that the district will provide.
In annual surveys conducted by VIF, teachers report that their salaries cover the local cost of living in the United States. Single VIF teachers report that they earn enough to live comfortably, travel, and enjoy their time in the United States. The same is true for many married couples who both earn salaries as VIF teachers. However, supporting a family on one teacher's salary is difficult. Teachers considering bringing family members to the United States should thoroughly read the family information, investigate cost-of-living details, and talk with a VIF advisor before making this decision.
Additional Funds Needed
VIF will provide you with a relocation loan upon arrival which will help you get settled in your new community. However, this loan will not cover all of your expenses. You will need additional money for relocation and living expenses in the time between your arrival in the U.S. and your first paycheck. The amount you need to bring varies depending on where you will live and whether you come alone or bring members of your family.
We highly recommend you bring a credit card since applying obtaining a credit card immediately after arrival in the U.S. is difficult. If you cannot bring a card with you, another option is to talk to a local bank representative in your host community about obtaining a credit card when you arrive.
Cost of Housing
The cost of your housing is an important consideration when planning your budget. Most teachers live in a one or two bedroom apartment, and only a few live in houses. Approximately 40% of VIF teachers have roommates to help lower their monthly expenses. Sharing an apartment with a roommate is a great way to save on expenses and allow for more social connections. We also encourage you to consider a living arrangement where you will live with U.S. citizens in order to enhance your cultural experience.
Banking
In the U.S., having a bank account is essential for paying bills. Many school districts pay teachers by direct deposit, which means your district will directly deposit your paycheck into your new bank account. Because many banks require a Social Security number, driver's license, and sometimes other identification, you may not be able to open a bank account on your own until two to three weeks after your arrival. Therefore, VIF contracts with various banks in different states to open a bank account for you prior to your arrival.
