Where can I go to student teach internationally?

You may apply to student teach anywhere in the world. Every effort will be made to accommodate your request.

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How are schools selected for international student teaching?

There are three major categories of schools where you could student teach.

1. U.S. Department of Defense Dependents Schools (DoDDS schools). DoDDS schools serve children of military families stationed abroad. These schools are K-12 schools that are American in design. The language of instruction is always English. DoDDS schools are located in Europe, Asia, across the U.S., Guam, Puerto Rico, Panama, and Cuba.
2. U.S. Department of State American-sponsored overseas schools. The Office of Overseas Schools assists 180 schools in 130 countries abroad. These private schools are open on a tuition basis to students of all nationalities but often serve a predominately American student population. The schools are not owned or administered by the U.S. government, but are supported by the Department of State to serve as models of American education overseas. Each school is unique, ranging from small schools housed in U.S. embassies to large schools with extensive campuses.
3. Host country schools. Some students elect to spend part of their student teaching in a host country school. These are public schools attended by local children living in the area. Because of language concerns, students going to host country schools have chosen countries where the primary language is English. Students have student taught in host country schools in England, Scotland, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand.
4. Other.Different types of schools exist around the world. Requests to student teach in other school environments will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Why wouldn't I get my particular international request?

There are a number of reasons why requests may not be filled. A cooperating teacher might not be available; a course or program might not be offered in the area that your major requires; a clinical supervisor might not be available to assist with your student teaching mentoring; a school might be at capacity for student teachers. There are many critical elements that must be met to insure a quality student teaching experience.

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What if something happens and I can't go internationally for student teaching?

If something happens and you can't go internationally or if your placement cannot be finalized an alternate Iowa placement will be made or, if you prefer, an out of state placement will be identified for you.

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Can I plan to travel to my student teaching site and visit for a while before student teaching?

Until you have a written invitation to student teach from your host school, your student teaching placement is not final. We do not recommend that students travel to their requested site until their placement is finalized.

Some schools have different calendars than UNI. Which schedule do I follow?

You follow the schedule of the school where you will be student teaching.

Where will I live during student teaching?

It is your responsibility to locate and pay for your housing however, there are a number of international student teaching sites that offer some type of housing. These opportunities will be discussed on an individual basis.

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Are there any fees to pay for out of state student teaching?

There are no fees charged to UNI students for this program. You must pay UNI tuition and associated university fees the semester that you student teach. You are responsible for all travel, housing, meals and other related expenses. All international placements require a passport and some require a visa. Some locations may require inoculations or other medical care. Costs will vary. In addition, you must be a member of ISEA while you student teach. You may apply to the UNI Financial Aid Office for financial assistance for expenses to be incurred during student teaching.

For general information on student teaching visit:
Student Teaching Frequently Asked Questions