Go on high school exchange in China
Why study abroad in 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.
High School Classic
High School Classic is the traditional high school exchange program, chosen by most of our students. It is the perfect program for those who long for a genuine high school experience abroad and who are willing to embrace all the surprises it can bring. Here’s how it works: based on your profile, we match you with a host family and school. In China you’ll also get to enjoy campus-homestay combo accommodation, where you’ll live on campus with local students during the week, and then spend the weekends with a Chinese host family. If you’re open to adventure and are willing to let yourself be surprised by your exchange experience, this is the program for you.
A language worth billions
China is also an enormous country, with a great variety of natural landscapes and cultural differences from region to region. From the towering Himalayas in Tibet, to the deep deserts of the east, tropical islands in the South China Sea to the bamboo forests and rice terraces of Yunnan and Sichuan, there’s so much to explore. And don’t forget the manmade wonders! You’ll find both impressive historical sites, like the Great Wall of China or the Terracotta Army, and modern marvels in cutting-edge cities like Shanghai or Shenzhen. Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it in China.
China has the world’s biggest population and oldest continuous civilization, with a rich history dating back over 4,000 years. Chinese is now the world’s most widely spoken language, and as China’s influence grows, it is set to become the language of the future. So, prepare for the future in the best possible way with a one-of-a-kind exchange in a one-of-a-kind country.
Learning the language
A large variety of languages are spoken in China, but Mandarin Chinese is the official spoken language, used by the vast majority of the population in day-to-day communication. We recommend that you already have some basic knowledge of Mandarin before considering a high school exchange in China, as well as a good level of English.
Population: 1.386 billion
Area: 9.597 million km2
Languages: Mandarin, Cantonese, and many more regional languages and dialects
Capital: Beijing
Religions: Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Christianity and more
Currency: Chinese Yuan (Renminbi)
High school exchange – all you need to know
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The Chinese School Experience
Education is taken very seriously in China, so it can be challenging, but also very rewarding. The school year runs from September to July, with a winter vacation usually occurring in January. An average school day starts ay 7:30 and goes until about 5pm. There are also evening study sessions, which are usually spent preparing for university entrance exams.
Of course, the high school experience can vary from one place to another, but in general mandatory courses for high school in China include mathematics, English, History, Geography, Politics, Chemistry, Physics, Biology and of course Chinese.
Prior Knowledge of Chinese
Chinese is very different from western languages, but it’s not as hard to learn as you may think. The grammar is relatively simple. Learning to write Chinese characters can be a challenge, but for many it is the best part of learning the language. There are over 80,000 characters, although you only need about 3,000 for most daily communication.
Some prior knowledge of Chinese is required in order to do a high school exchange in China. You must have a minimum of 1 year of Chinese language studies. We also recommend that you try to communicate in Chinese as much as possible from the moment you arrive in order to truly immerse yourself in the experience and make quick progress with your language skills.
Living in China
On your exchange in China you’ll have the unique opportunity of experiencing two different accommodation styles. During the week you’ll live in school dorms on campus along with Chinese students. Then on the weekends you’ll stay with a local Chinese host family where you can share all aspects of daily life. These living arrangements will be very different experiences, but they will both bring something interesting and important to your exchange, providing deep cultural immersion and great opportunities to improve your language skills.
Chinese Host Families
Without a doubt, staying with a host family is the best way to learn the language and immerse yourself in the local culture. You won’t just be observing the Chinese way of life, you’ll be living it. You’ll have almost unlimited opportunities to experience and partake in the culture and use the language every day in real-life situations.
Throughout the entire exchange, your local coordinator will stay in touch with you and your host family to make sure you have everything you need and ensure you have a good experience. Feel free to contact them at any time if you need help or support.
National Holidays
There are several national holidays throughout the year in China, and you’ll get the chance to celebrate them in traditional fashion with your host family. Some of them have fixed dates, such as May Day (May 1st), while others follow the lunar calendar and are on different days each year, like Chinese New Year, which usually falls sometime in January or February.
Quick facts
Who can participate: Students aged 15–18 at arrival.
Departure: August/September
Language requirements: Basic knowledge of Mandarin Chinese recommended (use of Pinyin), preferably 2 years of study. At the end of your experience we recommend taking the HSK test to certify your Chinese level.
Visa: Mandatory
Welcome Camp: Welcome camp in Beijing and a local orientation in the community/school.
School year: September–Mid June
School day: 7.30am to 5pm
Subjects: Compulsory subjects are Mathematics, Chinese, English, History, Geography, Politics, Chemistry, Physics and Biology.
Free time in China
Schools in China tend to offer lots of extracurricular activities and clubs in the afternoons and evenings. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to play the sports you love or take up a new hobby. Participating in these activities will also give you more practice using the language and allow you to get to know your classmates better.
Basketball and ping pong are perhaps the most popular sports in Chinese schools, but other options include athletics, football and traditional Chinese martial arts, such as tai chi and kung fu. Cultural classes are also quite popular, like painting, music or dancing. Explore the options offered at your school and give it a try!
Welcome Camp
Get the best possible start to your high school exchange with the STS Welcome Camp. You’ll meet fellow exchange students, go on excursions and prepare yourself for the experience ahead.
Welcome Camp in Beijing
No matter where in China you end up doing your exchange, your adventure will start with an orientation and Welcome Camp in Beijing. It will give you some insight into what it’s like to live in China, the school system, Chinese culture, etc. You’ll also go on small excursions and get the chance to check out some of the highlights of the country’s spectacular capital before heading to your exchange city. At the end of the Welcome Camp, a staff member will accompany you to your local community, where you’ll meet your host family and get settled in.
Adapting to a New Culture
Your daily life, cultural surroundings and general lifestyle will probably be different from what you’re used to back home. The Welcome Camp will give you the chance to discuss these things in detail with our staff and other exchange students to make sure you’re prepared for the experience, so take the opportunity have all your questions answered.
What’s included:
- Accommodation: campus Monday-Friday, with host family on weekends
- Personal assistance and contact person in both home and host country
- Emergency support 24/7
- STS bag
- Full board on weekends. Half or full board Monday-Friday (differs by school)
- STS Welcome Camp
- Free interview
- STS Diploma
- School spot in a local high school
- Online pre-departure meeting
- Meetings and material to prepare you and your parents
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!
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