Broaden your horizons, immerse yourself in new cultures, and develop global citizenship skills that will last a lifetime.
Foreign exchange programs offer transformative benefits that extend far beyond the classroom.
Immerse yourself in a new culture and gain firsthand experience of different traditions, customs, and perspectives. Living with a host family provides an authentic window into daily life in another country.
Accelerate your language learning through full immersion in a native-speaking environment. Many students achieve fluency or near-fluency during their exchange experience, a skill that provides lifelong benefits.
Develop independence, adaptability, and resilience as you navigate new situations. Exchange students often return home with increased self-confidence, problem-solving abilities, and a clearer sense of identity.
Experience different teaching methods and educational systems. Exchange programs can offer unique academic opportunities and perspectives that aren't available in your home country.
Form lifelong friendships with people from around the world. These connections often last a lifetime and can become valuable personal and professional networks in the future.
Enhance your college applications and resume with valuable international experience. Studies show that employers value the intercultural competence and adaptability developed through exchange programs.
300,000+
U.S. Students Abroad Annually
100+
Countries to Choose From
$25M+
Annual Scholarship Funding
25,000+
Host Families Worldwide
Explore these top-rated exchange programs that offer comprehensive experiences for high school students.
U.S. Department of State
Full scholarship program for high school students to spend an academic year in Germany. Live with a host family while attending a German high school or vocational school. No prior German language skills required!
U.S. Department of State
Full scholarships for American high school students to live and study in countries in the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Southeast Europe. Participants serve as "youth ambassadors" promoting mutual understanding.
U.S. Department of State
Full scholarship to study Arabic, Chinese, Hindi, Indonesian, Korean, Persian, Russian, or Turkish. Previous language study is not required - all levels welcome! Includes intensive language instruction and cultural activities.
Non-Profit Organization
One of the oldest and largest exchange organizations, AFS offers programs in over 50 countries. Options range from summer programs to full academic years with various scholarship opportunities available.
Rotary International
One of the largest and longest-running exchange programs, Rotary offers both long-term (academic year) and short-term (summer) exchanges in over 100 countries. Costs are kept low thanks to the volunteer network.
Council on International Educational Exchange
Comprehensive exchange programs offering language immersion, cultural exploration, and academic enrichment. CIEE provides scholarships based on both merit and financial need, with multiple program options available.
Discover various financial resources available to make your exchange experience more affordable.
Fully-funded programs like CBYX, YES Abroad, NSLI-Y, and FLEX Abroad offer comprehensive coverage including travel, housing, meals, and educational expenses.
Learn moreThe American Scandinavian Student Exchange offers partial and full scholarships for programs across Europe, Asia, and Latin America based on merit and financial need.
Learn morePrograms like the National Norwegian Scholarship for language learners, or Japanese government MEXT scholarships for students studying Japanese.
Learn moreRotary offers scholarships up to $25,000 for long-term exchanges. Contact your local Rotary Club for application information and deadlines.
Learn moreAFS offers a variety of need-based and merit-based scholarships, including diversity scholarships and special grants for underrepresented students.
Learn moreCovering between $500 to the full cost of tuition, CIEE's scholarship is focused on students with financial need and those pursuing language programs.
Learn morePlatforms like GoFundMe, FundMyTravel, or Kickstarter allow you to share your exchange goals with friends, family, and even strangers who might support your journey.
Learn moreApproach local businesses, community organizations, and clubs like Kiwanis, Lions Club, or cultural heritage societies for sponsorship or funding assistance.
Tip: Offer to give presentations about your experience upon return to provide value back to sponsors.
Organize bake sales, car washes, community dinners, or cultural events that celebrate the country you'll be visiting to raise funds and awareness.
Tip: Consider selling products or services related to your destination country to build excitement around your exchange.
Apply for multiple scholarships to increase your chances of receiving funding.
Pay attention to application deadlines - many programs have early deadlines (6+ months before departure).
Craft a compelling personal statement that clearly articulates your goals, motivation, and how you'll share your experience.
Secure strong recommendation letters from teachers, counselors, or community leaders who know you well.
Demonstrate cultural curiosity and adaptability throughout your application materials.
From application to arrival, follow these steps to ensure a successful and rewarding exchange program.
Start by identifying your goals, preferences, and constraints. Consider factors such as program duration, location, language requirements, cost, and scholarship availability.
Start applications early - many programs have deadlines 6-12 months before departure. Apply for multiple scholarships and explore funding alternatives to maximize your financial support.
Once accepted, handle the necessary documentation and logistics for international travel and stay. Work closely with your program coordinator to ensure all requirements are met.
Begin learning about your host country's culture, customs, and language. This pre-departure preparation will help ease your transition and demonstrate respect for your host culture.
Prepare yourself for the challenges of cultural adjustment and homesickness. Develop strategies for adapting to a new environment and building resilience during your time abroad.
Handle the logistics of living abroad, from packing appropriately to managing finances. Planning ahead for practical matters will help you focus on making the most of your experience.
Always register with STEP and review travel advisories for your destination country.
Even basic language skills will enhance your experience and show respect for your host culture.
Understanding cultural norms can help you avoid misunderstandings and adjust more quickly.
How your exchange experience can shape your educational and professional future.
Exchange programs help you stand out on college applications by demonstrating independence, cultural awareness, and academic initiative, all qualities valued by admissions officers.
Immersion leads to higher language proficiency, which can fulfill college language requirements, qualify you for advanced courses, or even count as college credit.
Many colleges offer special scholarships specifically for students with international experience or demonstrated interest in global affairs.
Exchange experiences often help students discover new academic interests and clarify their college major or career path through exposure to different educational systems.
Studies show that employers value the intercultural competence, adaptability, and global perspective developed through exchange programs, especially in an increasingly international job market.
Exchange students develop valuable professional skills including communication, problem-solving, adaptability, independence, and cross-cultural collaboration.
The connections formed during exchange programs can become valuable professional contacts, potentially opening doors to international career opportunities later in life.
Exchange experiences provide compelling content for resumes and job interviews, showcasing unique achievements and demonstrating a willingness to step outside your comfort zone.
"My year in Germany through the CBYX program changed everything. I became fluent in German, which led to a scholarship for college. Now I work for an international company where I use my language skills daily and even travel back to Germany for business."
CBYX Alumnus, 2019-2020
"I spent a semester in Japan during my junior year. That experience made my college application stand out so much that I received a full scholarship to my dream university. I've continued studying Japanese and am planning to participate in the JET Program after graduation."
AFS Japan Alumna, 2021-2022
"My summer language program in Morocco through NSLI-Y sparked my interest in international affairs. I wrote my college essay about the experience, which helped me get into Georgetown. I'm now majoring in International Relations with plans to join the diplomatic service."
NSLI-Y Arabic Alumnus, 2022
Find answers to common questions about foreign exchange programs.
Most high school exchange programs are designed for students between 15-18 years old. Some summer programs accept students as young as 14, while others are specifically for students who have just completed high school (up to age 19). Each program has its own specific age requirements, so be sure to check the eligibility criteria carefully.
Most programs do not require prior language knowledge. In fact, language acquisition is often a primary goal of exchange programs. Some programs offer introductory language training before departure or upon arrival. However, having some basic knowledge of the language can help with initial adjustment. Programs in English-speaking countries are also available for students who prefer not to navigate a language barrier.
Costs vary widely depending on program length, destination, and what's included. Government-sponsored programs like CBYX, YES Abroad, and NSLI-Y are fully funded, covering all expenses including travel, housing, meals, and program activities. Commercial programs typically range from $5,000 for summer programs to $15,000+ for academic year programs. However, many organizations offer scholarships and financial aid. Don't forget to explore the Scholarships section of this page for funding opportunities.
Most high school exchange students live with volunteer host families who provide room, board, and a supportive family environment. Host families undergo screening and are matched with students based on interests and preferences. Some programs, particularly in certain countries or for university-level exchanges, may offer dormitory accommodations instead of host families. The living arrangement is typically specified in the program details.
Credit recognition varies depending on your home school's policies. Before departing, discuss your plans with your school counselor or principal to understand what will be required for credit transfer. Some schools readily accept credits from foreign schools, while others may require additional documentation or testing. Many exchange organizations provide assistance with academic planning and transcript translation to facilitate credit transfer.
Reputable exchange programs provide comprehensive support structures. This typically includes a local coordinator in your host community, 24/7 emergency assistance, pre-departure orientation, and ongoing support from the program staff. Many programs also arrange occasional events or check-ins with other exchange students in your region. Additionally, your host family and school will provide day-to-day guidance and support during your adjustment process.
Start your application process today and open doors to a transformative global experience.