Education Options

Au pairs should complete 6 credits, 7.2 CEUs, or 72 hours.

Educare Companions should complete 12 credits, 14.4 CEUs or 144 hours.

Online classes: You should first look for in-person or hybrid (a combination of in-person and online) courses for your education requirement. If you cannot find any on-person or hybrid classes that work for you, you may take one online class at a time. The class must be through an accredited U.S.-based college or university. If you are unsure about whether a class will be accepted, check with your community counselor BEFORE registering.

The APIA Advantage UCLA Course was the first State Department-approved online class. It gives all 6 credits for $500 and can be completed over a course of 3-4 months, working on your own schedule. It’s a great option for those who have interest in American culture, need flexibility, have transportation issues or just want to do one course for their total requirement.

An Explanation of the Au Pair Education Requirement

Credit Classes at all the local colleges require a placement test before you can enroll. The score of this test lets you know which courses you may take based on your level of English.

Non-Credit Classes are called that because they do not count toward a degree in the U.S. However, any classes through an accredited U.S. college or university count for your education requirement. This includes non-credit classes. Non-credit classes are usually more affordable than credit classes.