Student exchange to USA
For exchange students in the United States of America, life is a whirlwind of new experiences and cultural immersion. The USA offers programs that guarantee placement within a District, or a choice of private schools, as well as our classic exchange.
Howdy!
From navigating the bustling hallways of an American high school to participating in traditional events like prom or attending American football games, your exchange will be one big adventure!
You will gain genuine insight into everyday American customs and values while experiencing the vibrancy of American high school life, including all the extracurricular activities that make the experience unique. You will experience American life beyond the landmarks and tourist hot spots. Living with a host family and attending school allows you to increase your cultural understanding of life in the US and develop a deep appreciation and respect for the cultural differences between home and the USA.
“The best thing I’ve done with my life so far is to go on an exchange to the USA. I learned a lot about the culture but also about myself. It’s truly changed my life!” Sophie
Family life
Living with an American host family provides a unique insight into American traditions, values, and daily routines.
Your host family will support and guide you, helping you adapt to this new way of life. Helping to prepare and share meals, engaging in conversations and participating in family activities allows you to develop lifelong connections with your new family.
School
High schools in America offer a wide range of subjects and electives, allowing you to explore your interests and passions.
In addition to the core academic curriculum, you can participate in extracurricular activities such as sports teams, clubs, theatre productions, and community service projects, providing a well-rounded educational experience.
“Going to high school in the USA was a dream come true. I got to try lots of different sports, and my host family were friendly and took me on a lot of hikes.” Paige
Teenage life
High school is an important part of a teenager's social life in the USA.
Getting involved in school sports and cultural activities is a great way to connect with new friends. Hiking, boating, skiing, or outdoor team sports are integral to teen life, as are attending concerts and school events. Of course, shopping, going to the movies, and eating out with friends are popular pursuits among teens!
Food
American food is a blend of cuisine from around the world.
Homegrown favourites include apple pie, hamburgers, clam chowder, deep-dish pizza, bagel and lox, barbecue ribs, tacos, Thanksgiving turkey, mac and cheese, fried chicken, smores and waffles. Whatever your tastes, you’ll find something to satisfy that craving. Don’t forget to introduce your friends and family to Vegemite and Tim Tams!
Pricing & details
Programs, important dates, pricing and inclusions.
Classic
Our Classic student exchange programs are designed to promote cultural understanding. They allow students to learn a new language, experience a new education system, and gain insights into local customs, traditions, and family dynamics.
Important Info
- Must be between 14 and 17 years of age on departure
- A USA VISA is required for Semester and Year students
- All prices are in $AUD
Inclusions
- From August 2026 all flights, including return international flights to the USA and domestic flights within the USA if required and domestic flights within Australia to the departure airport (Melbourne or Sydney)
- Comprehensive travel insurance with unlimited medical and health coverage
- 24/7 emergency support in the USA
- Pre-Departure Meeting
- Half Board in a fully screened host family
- Enrolment at your host school
Exclusions
- Prior to August 2026Â all flights, including return international flights to the USA and domestic flights within the USA if required and domestic flights within Australia to the departure airport (Melbourne or Sydney)
- Optional New York Soft Landing Camp for August departure $1,950
- USA Consulate VISA processing costs, all required documentation will be provided
Duration
Travel Dates
Application Deadline
Notes
Pricing
Choice Plus
Allows you to select the area (District) you wish to be placed in - for example Santa Barbara School District - and you are guaranteed placement at a public school and a host family in that district. There are 16 exciting USA Districts to choose from and prices vary.
Important Info
- Must be between 14 and 17 years of age on departure
- A USA VISA is required for Semester and Year students
- All prices are in $AUD
Inclusions
- Comprehensive Travel insurance with unlimited medical and health coverage.
- 24/7 Emergency support in the USA
- Pre-Departure Meeting
- Half Board in a fully screened host family in the District you select
- Enrollment at a public school in the District you select.
Exclusions
- All flights, including return international flights to the USA and domestic flights within the USA if required
- Domestic flights within Australia to departure airport (Melbourne or Sydney)
- USA Consulate VISA processing costs, all required documentation will be provided
Duration
Travel Dates
Application Deadline
Notes
School/District
Location
Year
Semester
USA Private
For students who would prefer to attend a private high school in the USA. You indicate your top three choices from the list of available private high schools. You will be placed in one of those schools and live with a local host family.
Important Info
- Must be between 14 and 17 years of age on departure
- A USA VISA is required for Semester and Year students
- All prices are in $AUD
Inclusions
- Comprehensive Travel insurance with unlimited medical and health coverage
- 24/7 Emergency Support in the USA
- Pre-Departure Meeting
- Half Board in a fully screened host family
- Guaranteed Enrolment at a Private School based on your selection from our available options (pending availability)
Exclusions
- All flights, including return international flights to the USA and domestic flights within the USA if required
- Domestic flights within Australia to departure airport (Melbourne or Sydney)
- USA Consulate VISA processing costs, all required documentation will be provided
Duration
Travel Dates
School
Location
Year
Semester
Preferred Private
Allows you to select the private high school that you'll attend from a list of schools in very appealing areas across the USA. These schools generally provide more academic and extracurricular offerings than the Classic Private High School program.
Important Info
- Must be between 14 and 18 years of age on departure
- Late applications may be accepted
- All prices are in $AUD
Inclusions
- Comprehensive Travel insurance with unlimited medical and health coverage
- 24/7 Emergency Support in the USA
- Pre-Departure Meeting
- Half Board in a fully screened host family
- Guaranteed Enrolment at the Private School you select from our available options (pending availability)
- All flights, including return international flights to the USA and domestic flights within the USA if required
- Domestic flights within Australia to departure airport (Melbourne or Sydney)
- USA Consulate VISA processing costs, all required documentation will be provided
Exclusions
Duration
Travel Dates
School
Location
Year
Semester
Short Programs
Living with a host family while immersing yourself in American culture through a short-term cultural immersion program.
Important Info
- Must be between 14 and 17 years of age on departure
- An opportunity to immerse yourself in American culture as part of a volunteer American host family.
Inclusions
- Comprehensive travel insurance with full medical and health coverage
- 24/7 emergency support in the USA
- Pre-Departure briefing
- Placement with a screened and vetted volunteer host family, including 3 meals
- All flights, including return international flights to the USA and domestic flights within the USA if required and domestic flights within Australia to the departure airport (Melbourne or Sydney)
3 weeks Excursion Program includes:
- 3 excursions (may vary due to availability)Universal Studios Hollywood, Los Angeles, including Hollywood Boulevard, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica Pier and Griffith Observatory, Dodgers Baseball Game/Whale Watching Boat Tour (Excursion may vary due to availability)
- A classic s’mores and hot dogs farewell party at the conclusion of the three weeks with all program participants and host families.
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Exclusions
- USA ESTA approx. $40.00 USD
- Personal expenses
Duration
Travel Dates
Pricing
Jul 2026
Aug 2026
Jul 2026
Aug 2026
Jun 2026
Jul 2026
Jul 2026
Aug 2026
Jul 2026
Aug 2026
Orientation
Get settled with an Orientation or Language Camp! Find your feet in a new city and take in the sights before meeting your host family.
Soft Landing Camp New York
Want more info?
Submit your expression of interest and a Students of the World team-member will provide you with more!
FAQs
Can I choose a specific city or region for my high school student exchange placement?
You can tell us your preferred city or region for your high school exchange program, and some destinations offer a Select Program that allows you to choose a specific area.
We will always do our best to consider your preference, but placements depend on host family availability and suitability, so the location cannot be guaranteed.
Students are matched and placed with families from across the destination country.
We prioritise the things you and the host family have in common over the specific location. To make the most of your program, it’s important to be flexible and open-minded.
Will I need a visa for my high school student exchange program, and who organises it?
Visa requirements depend on your destination and the length of your high school exchange program, and if a visa is required, we guide you to start the application process.
In many European Union countries, a visa is not required for short programs under 90 days. For programs longer than three months, a visa may be necessary. If you do need a visa, we will help you begin the application process and ensure you understand the steps involved. Visa costs are not included in the program fee.
Learn more about program lengths and destinations on our Student Exchange Programs page.
For general visa and entry information, visit Smartraveller’s visa guidance page.
How much pocket money should I bring for my high school exchange?
Students typically need around $500–$600 per month during their high school student exchange to cover personal expenses, local transport, school lunches and social activities.