Workforce Profile of International Teachers in South Carolina for 2022–23

International teachers in the US primarily fall into two categories: those on J-1 or J-2 visas under the Exchange Visitor Program and those holding employment visas, such as H-1B, EB-2, or EB-3. J-1 and J-2 visas are aimed at cultural and educational exchange. Those who receive them are authorized under the Fulbright-Hays Act of 1961 to teach for up to 5 years with a short-term international teaching certificate before returning to their home countries. Employment visas (H-1B, EB-2, or EB-3) are for specialty occupations, advanced degree holders, or those filling a labor shortage, respectively. International teachers with this visa type are on paths to permanent residency and begin teaching in South Carolina with an initial teaching certificate. From these two categories, J-1 and J-2 visa holders represent the predominant group of international teachers. Given that context, this report offers an in-depth examination of educators possessing an international teaching certificate (i.e., teaching under J-1/J-2 visas) in South Carolina, herein referred to as international teachers. The analysis delves into the demographics and placement of these teachers, alongside exploring how the employment of international teachers correlates with teacher turnover rates. We acknowledge that the study of this workforce subset may not encompass all international teachers in the state.