ITPS Eligibility

Who is Eligible for ITPS?

Single Teachers or Teaching Couples

For reasons of travel expenses, housing, work permits and visas, single teachers and teaching couples are in demand.

Certification

North American teacher certification (or equivalent) is required.

Experience

Overseas schools require or prefer that teachers have a minimum of two years full-time teaching experience. Given the demands of adjustment to a new culture and professional environment, the schools prefer teaching skills to be 'in place' prior to arrival. Although most schools will not waive this requirement, some are flexible on this issue. Therefore, inexperienced teachers are welcome to register with ITPS.

Successful Circumstances

People with the following circumstances have increased chances for successful placement through ITPS.

Availability for an Interview

Many recruiters will not hire without a face-to-face interview or without a recommendation from us. ITPS has a higher success rate with teachers whom we have met or are known by our colleagues.

Flexibility

Teachers who are flexible with regard to location and teaching assignment have a higher rate of placement. We recommend that teachers be open to teaching in at least two continents or regions.

Length of Commitment

Most contracts are for two years with extensions possible; contracts for one year are uncommon. Negotiated leave from the home school district is the most common arrangement for experienced teachers wishing to teach overseas. It is strongly suggested that you check the policy of your district before registering for ITPS.

Less Successful Circumstances

People with the following circumstances have reduced chances for successful placement through ITPS.

Teachers with Non-teaching Spouses or Partners

As a result of problems with visas, work permits, housing and insufficient salary to support dependents, overseas schools will usually opt for single teachers and teaching couples. Based on recent experience, approx. 25% of candidates in this situation have been successful.

Teachers at or Near Retirement

There are age restrictions on visas imposed by the host country government in some locales.

Unmarried Couples

The prevailing local standards or national laws in North Africa, the Middle East and other locations require that couples living together be married.

Teachers with Dependent Children

Due to the limits of provided housing, the cost to a school of free tuition for staff dependents, or a school enrollment already at capacity, some schools are unable to accept any dependents or are limited to accepting couples with one or two dependent children.

Teachers without Recent Full-time Teaching Experience

Administrators prefer to consider teachers with recent experience and current references.