Going on exchange is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to step outside your comfort zone and embrace new cultures, friendships, and adventures. While the experience is thrilling, we understand it can feel overwhelming when confronted with different program options and destinations to choose from . That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide, with the assistance of former exchange students, to help you navigate every step – from choosing your destination to packing your bags and settling into your new home country.
Conduct your research about your destination
An international student exchange is an opportunity to improve your foreign language skills, make new friends and immerse yourself in a new culture. Whether you’re looking to explore the stunning landscapes of Europe or exciting possibilities in the Americas, start your journey on the right foot by doing your research.
Learn about the local culture, traditions, and holidays
Being familiar with cultural practices and traditions in your destination will help you adapt and build stronger connections with your host family, classmates and the community.
Explore online resources, visit your local library, or reach out to friends or acquaintances who have been to your destination. Even better, we can connect you with an exchange student who went on an exchange to the same country you selected, and they can answer any questions you might have.
Familiarise yourself with what is considered polite or impolite, such as greetings, table manners or even personal space!
Familiarise yourself with common phrases in the local language
While there are no formal language requirements for our destination countries, we strongly recommend that you know the basics as you will attend a school and live with your local host family. Simple expressions like “hello,” “thank you,” and “excuse me” can go a long way in breaking the ice.
Try learning basic phrases through apps like DuoLingo, or attending a beginner’s class at a language school like Alliance Francaise. Practice with your host family when you arrive, they will appreciate the effort and you might even pick up some local slang which guidebooks don’t cover!
Research the climate and pack appropriately
The right clothes can make or break your student exchange experience. If you’re headed to a country where there are extremes (like cold winters), plan for layers and specialised gear (e.g. heavy coats) which you may have to purchase on arrival.
Also remember that sometimes the climate can vary depending on regions. For example, north Spain tends to be cooler and wetter than sunny south Spain. Consider bringing multipurpose clothing like lightweight jackets so you can adapt them to different situations. Our Ourbound Student Handbook has some great tips for packing for your exchange.
How to become an exchange student with Students of the World
Follow our simple 5-step application process to become an exchange student with us. We have more information on what we look for in our applications on our website.
- Express your interest online through our enquiry form
- Interview over the phone or in-person with you and your parent/guardian to get to know you and why you’re motivated to go on exchange. You will be able to ask us any questions that you have about the student exchange too!
- Complete your application after the interview. We will review it and contact you for any additional information we need
- Once you’ve been accepted, we will notify you and our overseas partner will look for a suitable host family and school for you. You will be able to pay with a payment plan, with full payment made 60 days before departure.
- Before departure, you’ll have the opportunity to ask any last-minute questions in a pre-departure briefing with your parent/guardian
Why Choose Students of the World for your next international student exchange?
For over 20 years, our students have travelled the world learning new languages, attended local schools, and participated in unique cultural and social events. We have a helpful, friendly and knowledgeable team who provide you with individual advice and support for a rich and rewarding student exchange experience. While abroad, our international partners provide students with the same high standard of support and care for which we are renowned.
Students have 24/7 support during their stay in the host country and assigned a local coordinator who they are free to contact at any time to discuss any issues or concerns. All coordinators are trained and can take immediate action should any serious issues occur – you can learn more about our Safety Commitment here.