If you are placed in Illinois as part of the BridgeUSA cultural exchange program, you will need an Illinois Exchange Visitor License with Stipulations (ELS-VIT) to legally teach in the state. This guide will help international Teachers understand the process step by step in clear, simple language.
At Spirit Cultural Exchange, we support Teachers throughout their J-1 visa journey, from application to classroom success.
What Is the Illinois Exchange Visitor License with Stipulations (ELS-VIT)?
The Illinois Exchange Visitor License with Stipulations (ELS-VIT) is a temporary teaching license for Visiting International Teachers participating in a BridgeUSA J-1 Teacher Program. It is valid for five years.
This license:
- Ensures you meet state teaching standards.
- Allows you to serve as a full-time, teacher of record in Illinois.
- Allows you to fully participate in your cultural exchange program.
This license is specifically designed for visiting Teachers, so it is different from a standard Illinois teaching license. Spirit Cultural Exchange works closely with both Teachers and Host Schools to ensure all requirements are met before applying.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Applying for the Illinois Exchange Visitor License with Stipulations (ELS-VIT) may seem complex, but breaking it into steps makes it easier.
1. Secure a Host School Offer
Before anything else, you must have a written position offer from an Illinois school.
Your Host School must:
- Be accredited.
- Offer a full-time teaching position (minimum 32 hours/week).
- Provide the same benefits as US teachers.
2. Request a Temporary Social Security Number (Important!)
As soon as you are confirmed with an Illinois Host School, you should request a temporary Social Security Number (SSN) by completing Form 83-92B (linked here).
This step is very important because:
- You can complete this step before arriving in the US.
- You need a temporary SSN to create your account with the Illinois School Board of Education (ISBE).
- It helps avoid delays in your Illinois Exchange Visitor License with Stipulations application.
Important reminder:
You will still need to apply for your official Social Security Number after you arrive in the US and validate your program.
3. Register with the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE)
You must create an account in the Illinois licensure system (ELIS).
In this system, you will:
- Enter your personal information.
- Upload documents.
- Apply for the Illinois Exchange Visitor License with Stipulations. To learn more, visit ISBE’s website: Prospective Visiting International Teacher.
4. Submit Required Documents
You will need to upload several important documents, including:
- Official FCE report sent to licensureforms@isbe.net
- Proof of English Proficiency
- Educators may upload their own TOEFL and Cambridge score reports
- Global Seal of Literacy showing at least a working level of English. To review test options, click HERE. You will need to complete Part 1 of Form 83-91 and send the form to the Global Seal team
- If you majored in English or can provide a letter signed by the university confirming the main language used was English, then proficiency tests can be waived.
- The 73-03F Form , which should be sent to your Host School for completion of Part II
- Registration and application fees
5. Receive Your Illinois Exchange Visitor License with Stipulations
Once approved, you will receive your Illinois Exchange Visitor License with Stipulations (ELS-VIT).
At this point, you should update both your Host School and visa sponsor, Spirit Cultural Exchange.
Tips for a Smooth Application
Here are some helpful tips to make your process easier:
- Start early. Licensing can take time.
- Request your temporary SSN right away. Do not wait until arrival.
- Double-check documents. Missing items can delay approval.
- Stay in contact. Communicate with Spirit Cultural Exchange and your Host School.
- Keep copies. Save digital copies of all documents.
The Illinois Exchange Visitor License with Stipulations (ELS-VIT) is your key to teaching in Illinois as part of the BridgeUSA cultural exchange program. While the process may seem detailed, it becomes manageable when you follow each step carefully.
With the right support from Spirit Cultural Exchange, you can focus on what matters most: sharing your culture, growing professionally, and making a difference in your students’ lives.