What do exchange students do

This makes it easier for students from all over the world to join exchange programs or study abroad programs in the U. When students come to the U. College and high school students coming to live in the USA will require a J-1 or F-1 visa , which will determine the type of program they are on. Foreign exchange student programs are primarily focused on being a cultural exchange. These programs are great for students and host families generally looking for shorter-term arrangements.

They are more likely to get involved in as many activities with their school or host families as they can. A study abroad program is focused towards a students course of study. Students are on a F-1 visa, continuing their current studies at a local American high-school or university.

The length of time students lives and studies in the U. Many exchange students will stay for a few weeks to get a taste of American life and learn about a new culture The J-1 visa does allow students to stay for up to 12 months, although that is not often the case.

Study abroad programs are usually longer, with many students staying for at least a semester and sometimes a full academic year. The F-1 visa allows students to complete their entire course of study in the U. International students on a study abroad program tend to build strong relationships with their host families. Using your interests and preferences, a representative from one of the placement organizations will help you in matching an exchange student to your family situation. Hosting an exchange student is a rewarding experience for your whole family.

Members of your family will feel closer to each other through sharing your daily lives with an exchange student. You will be a citizen diplomat by creating positive impressions about America and Americans, breaking stereotypes, and fostering mutual understanding and respect.

Hosting opportunities range from serving a meal or providing an overnight stay to welcoming an exchange student into your home for a full year. Likewise, you can host a student for one semester or for the entire school year if you choose.

The word "exchange" sometimes misleads people. The word "exchange" refers to an exchange of cultures and ideas, as opposed to a literal exchange of family members, although American host brothers and sisters are welcome to apply and travel overseas. Of course! Our host families come in all shapes and sizes. Host families may include single parent households, parents with adult children, families with small children or many other varieties. A few examples of host families include but are not limited to :.

It is required that all students must be able to function in their classrooms while an exchange student. While students do speak English, some cultures will be more proficient in the beginning. You will not receive compensation as a volunteer host family. The U. Get in touch so we can discuss your options. Enrolling in a foreign exchange program is an eye-opening experience. Many students do not go abroad until later, so you'll be getting an educational head start.

Our student exchange programs are varied in length and objective. If you would like to become fluent as quickly as possible, consider taking a more intensive option for your student exchange program.

On the other hand, if your looking to embrace the nightlife and view historic monuments, consider a more cultural exchange when looking into a foreign exchange program. A student exchange program is the best way to become proficient at speaking a language. Perfecting your foreign language skills during your studies is a major asset to your future studies and career. Going abroad as a foreign exchange student will give you a big leg up, whatever your future goals.

Not only will your language skills improve, but you'll gain in independence and come home with an entirely new perspective on what it means to be a citizen of the world.