For many young people, the idea of living in the United States and having the chance to immerse themselves in that life and culture is a real dream. It’s somewhere they grow up seeing in movies and magazines, so it’s easy to see why so many people want to go for themselves. Au pair programmes such as Go Au Pair make that dream happen. In this review we take a look at what Go Au Pair does, who it’s for and whether it’s right for you. 

What does Go Au Pair do?

Go Au Pair is a cultural exchange and au pair placement organisation. It connects international au pairs with carefully screened American host families, enabling participants to live in the United States while providing childcare support in exchange for accommodation, meals, a weekly stipend, and an educational allowance.

Unlike informal childcare arrangements, Go Au Pair operates within the official US J-1 Pair Visa framework. This means it’s regulated and participants receive structured support, clear expectations, and legal protection during their stay. The organisation works with international representatives in the au pair’s home countries to help applicants prepare before they go, and also support them when they arrive in the U.S. In essence, it provides peace of mind for those choosing to become an au pair in the United States. 

A life-changing cultural experience

One of the strongest selling points of Go Au Pair is the fact that they enable you to live American life first-hand. By living with a host family, au pairs can see the country beyond the tourist attractions, eat local food, learn about the different customs, and have a glimpse into what “real life” looks like. 

Many au pairs are surprised by how calm, spacious, and welcoming parts of the U.S. can be away from the major cities that you always see online. From suburban neighbourhoods to smaller towns, it makes the whole programme feel educational as opposed to just a working holiday.

How the Go Au Pair Programme Works

The Go Au Pair process is structured but straightforward:

1. Application and Screening – Au pairs apply through Go Au Pair or a local international partner, submitting references, childcare experience, and background checks. 
2. Matching Process – Applicants are matched with host families based on preferences, skills, and compatibility. 
3. Visa and Travel Support – Go Au Pair assists with the J-1 visa process and provides guidance before departure. 
4. Placement and Ongoing Support – Once in the US, au pairs receive local support and resources throughout their stay.

Au pairs typically work up to 45 hours per week, help with childcare-related tasks, and receive:

• Room and board
• A weekly stipend paid by the host family
• An educational contribution to be used for classes or courses
• Paid holiday time

This balance of work, learning, and cultural exchange is central to the programme’s appeal.

They offer support before and during your stay

One of the biggest advantages of using an established organisation such as Go Au Pair is that you get support at every stage of the process. From the moment you consider filling in their application forms, to the entirety of the time you’re out there, you aren’t left to figure it out by yourself. 

Local coordinators are available to help resolve issues, answer questions, and ensure both au pairs and host families are following programme guidelines. For first-time travellers or those living abroad for the first time, this added layer of security can make a huge difference to the experience and is a real key benefit to sorting out your experience with their programme. 

There are educational and career benefits

Beyond childcare, Go Au Pair is an educational and personal development opportunity. You’re encouraged to take classes during your stay (often at local colleges or community places), and this is funded in part by the host family’s education allowance. Many former au pairs say they’ve improved their English language skills massively, as well as increased their independence and have more confidence in their abilities once they’ve completed the programme. Whether you want to use it as a stepping stone to future work abroad or a career involving children, it’s a great way to do it all safely. 

Pros and Cons of Go Au Pair

Below we’ve outlined some of the pros and cons of Go Au Pair as part of our review, to help you decide if it’s right for you.

Pros of Go Au Pair:

Structured and legal programme under the US J-1 visa system

Strong cultural immersion, living as part of an American family

Financial clarity, including stipend, accommodation, and education allowance

Support network with local coordinators and international partners

Personal and professional growth, especially for first-time international travellers

Cons of Go Au Pair:

The application process can feel detailed, particularly for paperwork and references

Childcare responsibilities can be demanding, depending on the host family

Limited flexibility in working hours, as schedules are based on family needs

These drawbacks are relatively minor and common across most au pair programmes, rather than being specific issues with Go Au Pair itself. Even if you opted for an alternative programme, you’d have a similar scenario.

Who is Go Au Pair best for?

If you’re looking for a legitimate, structured way to live with an American host family, to au pair with support and gain international experience, this review should have shown you why Go Au Pair is such an effortless choice. It’s ideal for young adults looking for a safe and supported way to experience the U.S. and to immerse themselves in their culture while also enhancing their childcare experience. It might be less suitable for those looking for complete independence or minimal work responsibilities, as au pairing is a genuine commitment you need to stick to.

Go Au Pair offers a well-established, supportive, and safe route to becoming an au pair in the U.S. It does require commitment and preparation to get the most from the experience, and when you put this in, you can reap the rewards. Find out more about Go Au Pair on their website and see if it’s right for you.