Making the decision to study abroad is a fantastic life experience that will look great on your resume for any college or graduate school applications. You’ll have to make a lot of decisions about which country you want to visit and how long you want to stay, so start planning ahead of time.
Almost all exchange student programs are run by schools and universities, though some are run by non-profit organizations. Before you are considered for an exchange, most programs have certain requirements that you must meet, such as good grades and a certain level of education.
Think about how long you’d like to spend in the other country. You can usually stay for a few weeks or months, a semester, or even a full year. You should also look into where you will live. Some foreign exchange students live with a host family, while others live in school or university dormitories or other residence halls.
If you’re going to a country where the people speak a language other than your own, it’s a good idea to learn as much as you can about that language before you go. The longer you stay, the more fluent you will become in the language, but it will be beneficial to have some basic knowledge before enrolling as a foreign exchange student. To avoid offending someone unintentionally, research any specific customs or traditions. Most exchange student programs will provide you with a guide to travel with you and help you adjust, at least in the beginning.
You must fill out an application in order to be accepted into an exchange student program. Tuition and fees vary by program, but you should expect to pay roughly the same amount per semester as a university student, and in some cases, even for high school programs. Keep in mind that the majority of fees are there to cover things like airfare, health insurance, a passport or student visa, living expenses, and other similar costs. Any additional expenses will almost certainly be your responsibility, but it is a good idea to thoroughly research any program before applying. Scholarships for foreign exchange programs are frequently available.
If you decide to study abroad as a foreign exchange student, it will most likely be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. It will allow you to immerse yourself in a new culture, meet new people, possibly learn a new language, and complete your coursework in a different setting. It is no longer necessary to physically swap places (exchange) with a student from another country, but it can be a particularly enlightening way to personalize the experience.