How to become a high school exchange student?
From idea to arrival — the application process
Curious about how to become a high school exchange student? This page walks you through every step – from your first chat with us to the moment you arrive at your new home abroad. It’s easier than you think, and we’re with you all the way.
Can I go?
To go on a high school exchange, you don’t need perfect grades or tons of travel experience – but there are a few things you do need:
✅ You’re between 14–18 years
✅ Still in school and passing your classes
✅ In good health and able to communicate in English
✅ Open-minded, curious, and ready for something new
Talk with us!
Before anything else, you and your parents book a call with one of our high school experts. We’ll explain how a student exchange works, talk about your goals, and help you figure out what kind of experience feels right for you.
Got questions like “What’s a typical school day like?”, “How much choice do I have in where I’m placed?” or “What kind of support will I get?” – we’ve got the answers.
What’s your vibe?
Adventure, academics, arts or sports? Let’s figure it out. Do you want to try something completely new? Focus on a specific subject? Or keep playing the sport you love – just in another country? We’ll help you narrow it down and choose the type of exchange that matches your vibe.
With 20+ destinations and several program paths, there’s something out there that fits you perfectly. Let’s find it together.
Lock in your spot
Found your dream destination and the program that fits? Great – now it’s game time. This is where it really begins. After signing your contract, you’ll do a formal interview – it’s our way of getting to know you better and making sure everything is on track. You’ll also start with the full application at this stage.
Our programs are popular and spots fill up quickly, so make sure to lock in your spot early – that way you can secure your place stress-free.
The full application
Don’t panic – we’ve got a checklist. Medical forms, grades, passport, maybe a video intro… it sounds like a lot, but we break it down step-by-step. If you need a visa, we’ll walk you through that too. We’ll keep it chill and organized. Your application is also a key part of the process – it helps your future host family get to know you. So take your time and be yourself.
One thing to keep in mind: the final approval for your exchange is made by the school authorities in your host country, along with our local STS office and partner organizations. Once everything is approved and in place, your exchange journey is officially a go.
Prepare and get excited
Once your application is submitted and accepted, there might be a bit of waiting – but it’s the perfect time to prepare for what’s ahead. You’ll get practical checklists from us and start ticking things off.
You’ll also be invited to a pre-departure meeting a few months before you leave. There, we’ll go through everything you and your parents need to know – and you’ll meet other exchange students getting ready for their own adventures. Bonus: we can even connect you with former students for tips and stories straight from someone who’s been there.
Placement, yihaa!
The moment you’ve been waiting for. Time to meet your host family! Most placements happen during the summer (for fall starts), but sometimes it can be close to your departure date – that’s totally normal.
Once placed, you’ll receive all the details and can start getting to know your host family better through FaceTime, Messenger, email, or whatever works best. Connecting before you go is a perfect way to feel more prepared and start building your relationship.
This is your new home away from home – and it all starts now.
Welcome Camp!
Kick things off in the best way possible. If you’re starting in the fall, your adventure begins with a Welcome Camp (included in most programs). It’s your chance to meet other exchange students, get to know the local culture, and shake off the nerves before school starts.
There’ll be fun activities, practical info, and plenty of time to settle in. You’ll arrive at your host family or campus feeling confident and ready. Let’s go!
Your new home!
Time to settle in and start your new life. Whether you’re moving in with a host family or into a dorm at your new school, this is where your exchange truly begins. You’ll meet your new family, classmates, and community – and slowly but surely, things will start to feel like home.
There might be nerves, but also tons of excitement. And don’t worry — we and your local support team are always here if you need us.
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High school exchange – all you need to know
Get our brochure packed with tips, destinations, programs and prices.
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.
UK
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
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 has a lot to offer!
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.
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.
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