Are there Au Pairs who study full-time?

The Au Pair program in the United States is governed by specific J‑1 visa rules, which include an educational component. This requirement is not characterized as full-time study, but rather as completing a minimum of academic credits – usually six credits per semester – that complement the cultural experience and exchange of experiences.

In other words, au pairs need to enroll in courses while participating in the program, but this workload is planned to fit the visa requirements and the format of the exchange, without constituting a full-time study regime like that of a regular university student.

This condition was established precisely so the focus of the program remains on cultural exchange and the experience of working with a host family, without compromising the time needed to learn a new culture and improve language skills.

It is important to always follow United States immigration laws and to be attentive to the rules established by the Au Pair program. Seek updated information from official sources and, if necessary, consult specialized professionals – carefully and thoroughly – to avoid falling victim to scams or marketing campaigns promising miraculous solutions. This way, you ensure your experience is safe and that all legal obligations are fulfilled correctly.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.