International Education

International Education refers to student or teacher exchanges and visiting teacher programs. The exchange of people, both students and teachers, is one of the most powerful tools for building strong relations among people all over the world.

Exchange & Visiting Teachers

The Nonimmigrant Exchange Certificate has been combined with the Conditional Teacher Certificate. A Conditional Certificate may be issued to an individual admitted to the United States for the purpose of serving as an exchange teacher.

Additional Information

International Education FAQ

The following information is provided to help support students and their families, as well as school and district administrators, in navigating available resources for international student exchange programs.

Student Exchange Information

OSPI does not have the legal authority to sponsor or coordinate student exchanges and does not support any specific programs for student exchange. However, we do believe that student exchange can be an enriching experience for individual students and their families, as well as schools and districts.

Washington State considers basic education to be "an evolving program of instruction that is intended to provide students with the opportunity to become responsible and respectful global citizens," in accordance with RCW 28A.150.210. Washington state K-12 Learning Standards in World Languages, Environmental and Sustainability Education, and Social Studies address major global themes, providing students the opportunity to develop the knowledge and skills needed in today's interconnected world.