Go on high school exchange in New Zealand
Why study abroad in New Zealand?
Studying in New Zealand is more than just scenic landscapes and friendly locals – it’s about discovering a whole new way of learning and living. You’ll experience everyday life as a Kiwi teen, full of adventure, independence, and unforgettable memories – with the chance to choose electives like Outdoor Education and Māori language that make school feel just as exciting as life outside the classroom.
✅ Make lifelong friends
✅ Master English naturally
✅ Explore epic nature – from beaches to volcanoes
✅ Discover true Kiwi culture
Are you eligible for the exchange?
To join one of our exchange programs in New Zealand, you must be between 15–18.5 years old when the exchange year begin. You still need to be enrolled in school, and open to a new way of life. You don’t need perfect grades – what matters most is that you’re curious, motivated, and ready to step outside your comfort zone.
We’ll help you figure out the right time to go, how long to stay, and make sure everything lines up with your goals. If you’re excited to explore something different, New Zealand might be the perfect fit.
Quick facts
Ages: 15–18.5 years
Accommodation: Local host family
Welcome Camp: Included
Duration: From 3 to 12 months
Support: 24/7 availability
Price: From €14,600
Language level: Min. 3 years of English
Visa: Required (additional cost)
Exchange student voices from Oceania
I had time to explore the beautiful flora and fauna of New Zealand on numerous hikes, trips, and beach visits. Another highlight was to visit the filming locations of the “Hobbit” and “Lord of the Rings” trilogies.
In New Zealand you’re usually able to choose your subjects, so I chose English, Biology, Outdoor Education, Business Studies, Hospitality, and Drama. There were over 40 options; it was hard to choose 🙂
I got to travel through NZ, discovering beaches, mountains, small towns, and amazing nature. But it’s also about growing, learning, and discovering who you are. My exchange was the beginning of a lifelong journey.
My year in New Zealand was, in short, incredible. I tried so many exciting things, everything from surfing to mountain climbing, scuba diving, and skydiving. “Kiwis,” are relaxed and open people and I ended up with a really good group of friends.
High school in New Zealand
In New Zealand, the school year is divided into four terms. The country offers a high quality, student focused school system known for balancing academics and well-being. As an exchange student, you’ll typically be placed in one of the upper high school years within the 13-year system – either at a public or private school, sometimes even at a girls’ or boys’ school.
Most schools have uniforms, which help create a strong sense of belonging and school pride. And if you’re placed in your final year, you might get to attend the school ball – a fun and formal highlight of the year. We’ll match you with the school that best suits your interests and goals
Your school week, schedule & subjects
A typical school day in New Zealand runs from 8:30 AM to around 3:30 PM. Core subjects like English, math and science are usually required, but you’ll also pick four or five electives that match your passions – maybe marine studies, Māori language, robotics or photography.
STS also offers an Outdoor Education Program, which is a great way to combine high-quality studies with extreme sports. Otherwise, practically every school in New Zealand also offers slightly more common sports. You could play rugby, netball, football or field hockey.
Trusted since 1958 – why STS is a great choice
Since 1958 over 1.2 million students from across the world have studied abroad with us. With STS you get:
- 24/7 support — we’re always here for you
- Carefully selected host families
- Resilience training
- Free Welcome Camp in Auckland
- Local Kiwi staff or host family will greet you at the airport
Compare our exchange
programs in New Zealand
We offer two programs in New Zealand. The Classic program is perfect if you’re open to adventure and want an authentic Kiwi experience. You can’t choose your school. The Select program is ideal if you have specific goals – you choose your preferred school and location.
CLASSIC
Live like a local and dive into real high school life in New Zealand. You’ll be placed with a host family and attend a local school somewhere in the country. Stay for up to 10 months.
KEY FACTS
✅ You’ll be placed in a safe and friendly community
✅ A cost-effective way to study abroad
✅ Supportive host families
✅ Quality local high schools
ADD-ONS (EXAMPLES)
• Do you have a special request concerning your exchange? A certain town you want to stay in, a favorite subject you want to study? You name it, we will try to arrange it! Let us know.
• Preparatory language course (English)
💶 Program fee: From €14,600
SELECT
With Select, you’re in control. Choose the city, the school, and what you want to focus on – from academics to sports, arts, or science. Stay for up to 12 months.
KEY FACTS
✅ Choose among 200+ schools
✅ Access to some of the finest schools in the country
✅ Ideal for university prep or competitive sports
✅ You’ll live with a host family close to your school
OPTIONS
• Opportunity to earn an IB diploma (International Baccalaureate) at numerous schools.
• If you have any specific requests, talk to us – our Select program offer plenty of opportunities.
• Preparatory language course (English)
💶 Program fee: Contact us
Explore life outside the classroom
Life outside the classroom is a huge part of your exchange experience – and in New Zealand, it’s anything but boring. Whether you’re staying near the mountains or the coast, adventure is always just around the corner.
Spend your afternoons hiking, sailing, or surfing, or try something new like whitewater rafting or ziplining. If you prefer a slower pace, explore local cafés and local markets.
Weekends might bring road trips, scenic views, or relaxed barbecues in the backyard. No matter where you are, the Kiwi lifestyle invites you to enjoy the moment and make the most of your time abroad.
Living with a Kiwi host family
New Zealanders are known for their friendly, laid-back way of life. Families live in all types of places, from small towns to larger cities, and no two households are the same. Some have kids, others don’t, but they’ve all been carefully selected and are excited to share their home with you.
Kiwi families love spending time together and with friends. Whether it’s showing you their favorite local spots, watching a rugby game or just chatting over dinner, they’ll help you feel right at home. Ask questions, join in, and don’t be surprised if you discover a new hobby (or two) along the way!
Your exchange year in New Zealand starts here
It’s easier than you might think! Begin your journey by talking to us – we’ll guide you every step of the way. What are you waiting for? Say yes to the adventure and create memories that will stay with you forever.
Welcome Camp in Auckland
We want you to have a great start to your year abroad, which is why the New Zealand Welcome Camp in Auckland is included in the program fee. You’ll get tons of useful information and great advice on what it’s like to live in New Zealand and attend school there before you move in with your host family.
The cost of a high school exchange in New Zealand?
The cost of your exchange year depends on the program you choose, how long you’re away, and any extras you’d like to add. Below, you’ll find starting prices for our Classic program.
In addition to the program fee that you pay to STS, there are certain costs that you and your family need to cover, including costs for insurance, visa, local trips, leisure activities, school uniform, pocket money and personal items.
|
Length |
Period |
Year |
Price |
Explore the islands with our trips
In New Zealand, you’ll have the chance to take a round trip to the North Island in April and the South Island in September/October. These round trips cost extra and the fee includes travel by bus, accommodation, most dinners and breakfasts, and extra activities.
The round trip to the South Island is an 11-day adventure, during which you’ll get to experience the wild natural scenery and glaciers of New Zealand. You might even see whales or sea lions. The 11-day round trip to the North Island is also a fantastic adventure. We’ll visit Wellington, the country’s capital, as well as Auckland, its biggest city, and enjoy the lovely climate and beautiful coast.
Follow our students on Tiktok
Our destinations
Take our short quiz and discover which high school exchange destination fits your vibe.
USA
Discover life as a high school student in the USA. A whole new way of living – from yellow school buses and pep rallies to school pride, homecoming dances, and weekend road trips. You’ll immerse yourself in a culture you’ve only seen in movies, experience the American school spirit firsthand, and find out what everyday life is like as a U.S. teen.
Argentina
A high school year in Argentina will give you a wonderful mix of cultures and indigenous traditions. And your Spanish will get a powerful boost. This is a big, bold and beautiful country with many different landscapes and different climate zones – from subtropical in the north, over the vast green plains (Pampas) in the centre to subpolar and glazier zones in the far south.
Australia
Studying in Australia is more than just sunshine and surf. It’s about meeting new friends, trying Vegemite (yes, really), and learning what it’s like to go to school on the other side of the world. Whether you're in a coastal city or a small rural community, you’ll experience life like a true Aussie teen – full of adventure, culture, and personal growth.
Austria
You don’t have to be skier to love Austria. But if fresh powder and well prepared slopes is your thing then Austria will be your kind of heaven. There are mountains and lift systems everywhere and they are often close to the cities.
Canada
It isn’t hard to see why Canada is attracting an increasing number of international high school students for their year abroad. Canada isn’t just the second-largest country in the world, where the people are friendly and life is easy-going. It also has beautiful natural scenery, wide-open spaces, the great outdoors and plenty of wildlife.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a nature-lover's dream, with deep rain forests, perfect beaches, mountains, volcanoes, islands and spectacular wildlife. But the country's best asset is the people, who are warm, welcoming and share a unique way of seeing the world. Pura vida ('pure life') is both a greeting and the national philosophy. It encapsulates a friendly and worry-free lifestyle and an appreciation of people, nature and a good time.
China
Live and study in one of the world’s most dynamic countries, one that combines the cutting edge of technological development with a history that dates back millennia. The past, present and future seem to merge in China. Discover its unique culture and fascinating language from the inside on an unforgettable high school exchange.
Denmark
Take the chance to study in the lovely country Denmark! Despite the country's small size, there is a lot to discover here. Come with us to Denmark as an exchange student and experience the green landscapes, blue sea and beautiful old towns. Eat typical food such as smørrebrød and frikadeller, rent a bicycle in Copenhagen and treat yourself with some amazing Danish pastry at a cosy café!
Finland
Finland's stark Nordic scenery is home to fascinating wildlife, pristine forests, some 200,000 lakes and the world's happiest people, not to mention Europe's top educational system and an extremely high quality of life (and don't forget the saunas).
France
Around 85 million tourists from all over the world can’t be wrong – France is the place to visit. For decades the country has had the number 1 spot in the World Tourism Organisation’s yearly statistics. It’s no wonder France is a favorite. Shopping, fashion and sightseeing in Paris, the glamorous beach life on the Côte d’Azur, skiing in the French Alps and a beautiful countryside are some of the things that attracts foreigners. Also, it’s no doubt that France is number 1 when it comes to food. Will you try a delicacy such as escargots?
Germany
Germany is the largest country in the EU in terms of population. It’s also the European Union’s biggest economy, which you will notice by the high standards of living. This modern, cosmopolitan country is a centre for technology and innovation. It attracts people from all over the world with a varied cultural scene and a certain love for concerts and festivals.
Great Britain
Studying in the UK is more than afternoon tea and iconic landmarks – it’s a chance to experience life as a British teen and discover a world of new perspectives. From buzzing cities like London and Manchester to charming countryside villages, your exchange year in the UK combines academic challenges with unforgettable cultural moments.
Ireland
A high school exchange in Ireland means diving into a vibrant culture full of music, tradition, and friendly energy. You'll live like a local, attend an Irish secondary school, and become part of a community that is full of character. From green hills and coastal cliffs to school spirit and weekend céilís, life in Ireland is anything but ordinary.
Italy
Go on high school exchange in ItalyFree brochure Why study abroad in Italy? If you ask an Italian why you should come to Italy the answer will probably be because Italy has the best food, the most beautiful language, the greatest culture and world class soccer teams. Well, it’s hard to disagree. This country sure…
Japan
Welcome to a nation like no other! Japan is the world’s third largest economy, and a trendsetter in culture, fashion, and technology. Japanese culture is widely known for its traditional arts as well as its contemporary pop culture. It’s a country where old meets new in a totally unique way.
Netherlands
Most people are familiar with the tulip plantations, the windmills, the expertly built canal system (great for skating in winter time) and lively cities like Amsterdam, Haag and Rotterdam. We are of course talking about the Netherlands – a small but interesting country, with more to offer than just these traditional symbols.
New Zealand
Studying in New Zealand is more than just scenic landscapes and friendly locals – it’s about discovering a whole new way of learning and living.
Norway
Take the opportunity to study in one of the world’s most mesmerising countries. Norway is known worldwide for its exceptional nature and it’s the perfect destination for you who love skiing and snowboarding.
Spain
A high school exchange year in Spain means becoming part of a culture that’s lively, welcoming, and full of everyday moments. You’ll attend a local high school, live with a welcoming host family, and experience what daily life is like as a teenager in Spain. With nearly 500 million people around the world speaking Spanish, gaining confidence in the language will open up new opportunities – both now and in the future.
Sweden
Did you know that Sweden is a 1 574 kilometer long country with nearly 100 000 lakes? Pretty impressive. The country has great coastlines and lots of vast forests. But also charming cities, both big and small, from Malmö in the south to Kiruna in the north. Stockholm, the Swedish capital, is a lively city located in the most amazing archipelago. It is a beautiful country with great wildlife and plenty of wide open spaces. If you're lucky you'll see the King of Sweden, or at least the king of the forest, the famous moose. Come join us for a genuine experience!
STS at a glance
Founded in
1958
20+
destinations
24/7
support
