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Alaska does not have a statewide teacher salary scale. Each district negotiates their own pay through local union contracts (called “Negotiated Agreements”).
Yes, if you’re certified in another state and completed a formal teacher prep program, you’ll likely qualify for an Initial Certificate in Alaska. Non-traditional or emergency certification paths may require additional review.
Always check with the State of Alaska Teacher Certification Office for the most current information.
Many international teachers work in Alaska through the J-1 AND H1-B Visa Programs, but it’s up to each district to decide whether to sponsor international hires.
Possibly! Many Alaskan schools qualify for federal loan forgiveness programs for teachers in low-income areas. These include:
Search the TCLI Directory of Eligible Schools
Be ready to do some legwork—these programs require documentation from your school district, lender, and sometimes your university.
Some do. A few districts offer relocation stipends or travel reimbursements, especially in rural areas. Always ask during the hiring process, especially if it’s not mentioned in job materials.
(H-1B Visa Pathway)
Yes. Alaska school districts actively recruit international teachers—especially in high‑need areas. AERRC supports your journey from recruitment through visa sponsorship, certification, and relocation coordination.
The H‑1B visa is a U.S. work visa for specialty occupations, teaching included. Once a district offers you a position, AERRC works with immigration attorneys to submit your petition to USCIS. After approval, you’ll schedule your visa interview and prepare for travel to Alaska.
Upon signing a letter of intent:
• AERRC initiates your H‑1B visa process.
• Supports your teacher certification steps via TEACH‑AK.
• Coordinates with your district to help you transition into your new role and community.
While employed by an Alaska school district, AERRC acts as your sponsoring agency, guiding you through certification requirements, legal processes, and working closely with the district to support your successful relocation.
Most international applicants begin with an Emergency Teacher Certificate, allowing immediate classroom entry while completing certification requirements—unless you meet alternate pathways described below.
You should:
• Register on TEACH‑AK (https://education.alaska.gov/teachak)
• Submit a foreign credential evaluation, fingerprint card, and application materials
• Complete the required four Mandatory Trainings (providing at least one documented verification)
• Submit Emergency Certificate forms if needed
• Use 999‑99‑9999 as a placeholder TIN if you don’t yet have a U.S. Social Security Number
Under the Alaska Reads Act, teachers in PreK–3 must either:
Passing both the basic competency and content exams prior to arrival not only boosts your employability, but may allow you to qualify for an Initial Three-Year Certificate immediately—enabling smoother certification and faster integration into the classroom.
Absolutely. If you’ve already passed the required Basic Competency Exam and the necessary Content Area Exam in your subject area before arriving, you’re considered more employable. You can apply directly for an Initial Two-Year or Three-Year Certificate, potentially skipping the Emergency Certificate altogether.
You may qualify for a Professional Out-of-State Teacher Certificate if you:
Use 999‑99‑9999 as a placeholder TIN on TEACH‑AK so your application proceeds smoothly. You can apply for your SSN once you arrive in Alaska.
You’ll travel once your H‑1B petition is approved and your visa is granted. AERRC and its partner agencies will guide your exit documentation and coordinate logistics with your district.
No. AERRC does not provide housing directly, but will collaborate with your hiring district to help identify suitable housing options and support your initial transition to the community.
Yes—they are eligible for H‑4 dependent visas. However, districts do not pay for travel or relocation of dependents, so these expenses must be financially planned for in advance.
Typically, the H‑1B visa is issued for three years, renewable up to a total of six years. AERRC assists districts in tracking timeline compliance and renewal coordination.
Alaska does not have a statewide teacher salary scale. Each district negotiates their own pay through local union contracts (called “Negotiated Agreements”).
Yes, if you’re certified in another state and completed a formal teacher prep program, you’ll likely qualify for an Initial Certificate in Alaska. Non-traditional or emergency certification paths may require additional review.
Get Certified in Alaska (LINK)
Always check with the State of Alaska Teacher Certification Office for the most current information. (LINK)
Many international teachers work in Alaska through the J-1 AND H1-B Visa Programs, but it’s up to each district to decide whether to sponsor international hires.
Possibly! Many Alaskan schools qualify for federal loan forgiveness programs for teachers in low-income areas. These include:
Learn More https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/forgiveness-cancellation/public-service
Search the TCLI Directory of Eligible Schools https://studentaid.gov/tcli/
Be ready to do some legwork—these programs require documentation from your school district, lender, and sometimes your university.
Some do. A few districts offer relocation stipends or travel reimbursements, especially in rural areas. Always ask during the hiring process, especially if it’s not mentioned in job materials.