FAQ

Make sure to follow the instructions from the local authorities, at home and at your destination. STS follows government advisories and remains in touch with all of our partners to stay well informed. We always have our students’ and host families’ best at heart and act accordingly.

If there are travel restrictions in place at the time of your departure, that prevent you from travelling, we will first try to reschedule your programme to another destination or a later date. If that is not possible, we will refund the programme fee in accordance with the applicable laws in your country.

Most of our host countries require you to be vaccinated against Covid19. Even if there isn’t a requirement, we highly recommend that you are fully vaccinated in good time before your trip.

Our students need to be achieving at an average to above level across all subjects during the last three years (or the years that they have received grades). If you have below average results please contact us and we will do an individual evaluation. Maybe you can be an exception to the rule.

Health is important, but we always want to help students with allergies or previous medical problems. Everyone is unique and we will make an individual evaluation of your possibilities.

Of course! Let us know which sport you would like to play when you apply and we will do our best to find a school where you can practice your interest.

This is completely up to each and every school. They all have their own rules and regulations. Some schools let their exchange students participate in the graduation ceremony, but without getting an official diploma. In some cases, you can ask your school for a transcript of your courses and grades.

In most countries, you will attend public schools. The difference between public and private schools differs between countries.

That is something you need to discuss with your school before you depart New Zealand. We do recommend you keep a record of all that you study while on exchange to bring back to New Zealand with you to show to your school.

Yes, in some of our host countries you can state in your application that you wish to be placed in a certain region or city. There will be an additional fee if you get the placement you wished for.

In most cases this is possible. In some countries we have to follow some rules. For example, in the US you are not allowed to be related to, or come from the same country as the host family.  Let us know if you want to arrange your own host family and we will gladly help you with this and give you all the information you need.

It depends on your final destination, since different countries and schools have different start dates. You will get more detailed information about this when you apply.

Congratulations, you're accepted to the programme! Once accepted you will be guided in applying for your visa and we will notify you as soon as your placement has been confirmed.  You are on your way to the adventure of your life!

Yes, no matter where you go, we have a local representative at your location. It is the local area representative who works to approve our host families, have contact with schools and will be your supporter and advisor during your exchange year.

Of course! Your local area representative and school often arrange trips that are very popular to join. When your exchange year is over you can use the extra month that is included in your visa to travel around. 

As a part of your application you write a personal letter, and give a presentation of who you are and what you like. Our host families choose the student that they feel will fit the best into their family and routines. Give your personal letter some extra attention to enhance the chances of the perfect match.  Be sure to explain all your interests and weekly activities!

We put a lot of emphasis on accepting the right host families. After the host families apply, we interview them, visit their home and collect references. Many of our host families are experienced and used to having an exchange student in their home. What they all have in common is a genuine interest in cultural exchange. Just like you!

The process of applying for an STS Exchange is very straight forward and we are there, at your side, all the way if you have any questions. Here you can read more about the steps in the process.

We recommend that you apply in good time to secure your spot. The earlier you register the better, to allow plenty of time for the right host family to be located for you.  For departure in August you can apply as late as 1 April. For a January departure you need to apply before 30 September.

The easiest way to apply is to visit the page of your favourite destination and click the "Apply now" button.  Your application is not binding, and you make your final decision once you have been accepted.