Can Au Pairs Earn All Their Education Credits
in One Weekend?
Many au pairs ask the same question:
“Can I earn my education credits in one weekend?”
The answer is yes — in many cases, you can.
This guide explains how it works, what to expect, and whether a weekend course is the right choice for you.
Understanding the Au Pair Education Requirement
All au pairs in the United States must complete:
6 education credits or about 60 to 72 hours of coursework
These credits must be earned though an approved educational program.
If you haven’t yet chosen how to complete your credits, you can read our guide: How Au Pairs Earn Education Credits in the United States.
So, Can You Earn All Your Credits in One Weekend?
Yes — some programs are designed specifically to allow au pairs to complete their education credits over a short, intensive period, often in a long weekend.
These are commonly called:
weekend courses
intensive courses
travel-based learning programs
They combine structured learning hours with guided experiences.
How Weekend Courses Work
Weekend courses are typically organized like this:
Pre-course work
In-person learning during the weekend
Activities, discussions, and guided experiences
Together, these components add up to the required number of hours.
What You Can Expect During the Weekend
Most weekend courses include:
guided exploration of a city or destination
group discussions and reflection
hands-on learning experiences
time to connect with other au pairs
For example, courses may take place in:
New York City
Miami
Los Angeles
Washington, DC
U.S. National Parks
Why Many Au Pairs Choose Weekend Courses
Weekend courses are popular because they allow au pairs to:
complete their credits quickly
travel to new places
meet other au pairs
have a meaningful experience beyond the classroom
“The best trip, with the best people, in such an interesting city! If any au pair is wondering which class to take, the “One & Done” courses with Learning Across America are definitely worth it...”
Is a Weekend Course Right for You?
A weekend course might be a great option if:
you have a limited time left in your program
you prefer a short, intensive experience
you want to combine learning with travel
you are interested in meeting other au pairs
However, if you prefer a slower pace or weekly schedule, a college or online course may be a better fit.
When do Au Pairs Usually Choose This Option?
Many au pairs choose weekend courses:
in the middle of their year
or toward the end, when they need to complete credits quickly
Planning ahead is always helpful, but these courses are especially valuable if you feel short on time.
More Than Just Credits
For many au pairs, the weekend experience becomes more than just a way to complete a requirement.
It’s a chance to:
explore new places
step outside their routine
connect with others
“A great opportunity to have time for myself, learn something new, and meet new friends.”
Final Thoughts
Yes — it is absolutely possible to earn all your education credits in one weekend.
But more importantly, it’s an opportunity to turn a requirement into something memorable.
“I fell in love with this incredible city... This course helped me learn about different cultures, improve my English, and meet so many other au pairs.”
Explore Weekend Courses for Au Pairs
If you’re interested in completing your education credits while traveling and connecting with other au pairs, explore our weekend courses.