The Who, How and When of Student Exchange and Study Abroad Programs

Whether you’re aspiring to participate in a student exchange program for summer study abroad or to volunteer as a host family, it’s important to understand the who, how and when of these exchange programs. Regardless if it’s a summer study abroad program or a standard study abroad program, generally student visas are not required. Most programs will manage the details involved in handling the travel documents and student visas (if needed)

The Who on Student Exchange Programs

Besides the organization supporting the student exchange there are 3 other groups of people involved. The person who will be studying in another country is known as the foreign exchange student The people who will have the student living with them for the duration of the program are known as the host family. And last but not least, the person who will be coordinating the program from start to finish, also known as the student representative.

All high school student exchange programs represent a positive life altering experience for high school students between the ages of 15 – 18 as well as college age study abroad students. Based on the international student’s application and grades, the program will determine which grade to place the student. (Most high school foreign exchange students will be placed as a junior in their new high school). A true desire to learn a new culture, language, customs and ways will help make the exchange a satisfying one.

While there are not any specific preconceived notions on the race, religion or personalities of the types of families who host a foreign exchange student, the most important step of any student exchange program is the ability to match an exchange student with the appropriate host family. A loving family that appreciates the possibilities of giving back, gaining personal growth and experiencing a rich life lesson will have the most rewarding encounter for them and their student.

Area Representatives worldwide act as a liaison between host families and foreign exchange students, a counselor if you will, helping to ensure the successful completion of a study abroad program. Some of their responsibilities include, seeking vacancies for foreign students in local high schools, recruiting and interviewing prospective host families, the orientation of both the host family in preparation of the arriving student and the foreign exchange student on their arrival. The best student reps are enthusiastic, patient and reliable.

The When on Study Abroad Programs

From summer study abroad program to student exchange program, the span of study varies from international student and program. For instance one study abroad program may begin in August and last for the entire academic school year or 10 months. As a result, the exchange student would not return from the study abroad program until June of the next year. Alternatively, adolescents participating in a student exchange program in the Southern Hemisphere may start January for the 10-month study abroad program.

Other student exchange programs are based on semesters. In these exchange programs, students stay for five months. A student could commence the study abroad program in August and return to their country in January – making their stay a five-month span.

A summer study abroad program will generally last about 3 months, although some may be as short as two weeks. (Keep in mind summer in the Southern Hemisphere, is from January to April and in the Northern Hemisphere June to September).

The How on Student Exchange Programs

The student will ultimately decide which type of program is best for them to enroll in, but before an exchange student can consider beginning a study abroad program experience, certain documents are needed to participate in the exchange program. In America, most study abroad programs require the students to enter the United States on a J-1 exchange visitor visa as opposed to an actual student visa. The form, known as the DS 2019 is secured and issued by participating programs – including and not limited to various summer study abroad programs and student exchange programs.

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Study Abroad

STUDY ABROAD: SPAIN


Known for being the land of beautiful women, rich culture, Flamenco music and dance, fantastic beaches and a lot more, Spain offers one of the most exciting places to study abroad for a student wishing to soak up some international culture or learn Spanish.

Students that take up summer abroad programs can choose to be in either a short-term or a long-term course. Study programs in Spain offer the international student the opportunity to take electives in a variety of disciplines at prestigious universities like Allocate, Barcelona, Granada and Madrid to name a few.

Scholarships for an international student are available through a number of agencies that facilitate the study programs. Student loans are also available. Agencies like Collegiate Funding Services, Smart Money and Understanding Financial Aid are some of the more well known.

International students doing study abroad programs choose from a number of student housing opportunities. A student can opt for student housing that houses more than a hundred students such as apartments or casa universitarias (off campus shared furnished flats or residencies).

Or a home stay option is available in which the student can stay with a host family to get the real taste of Spanish culture and have a more in-depth experience. Students should also apply for an International Student ID card. This card helps the student in getting discounts at museums and cathedrals or boat tickets and train tickets. Even though you'll be studying you'll still have plenty of time to sight-see.

The student has to apply for a student visa in due time. It is advisable to apply for a multiple entry visa for the international student. Most study abroad programs in Spain offer courses that may include field trips and plenty of excursions. The multiple entry visa allows the international student to travel between countries during the program should the student wish to do so.

Summer study abroad programs are interesting and the student can choose from a variety of options. High school summer programs are also offered for the student who wishes to finish high school abroad. The courses that are offered for international high school students vary from language courses to cultural recreational activities to Art and Architecture.

Internship programs and scholarships are also available in the various educational institutions. Scholarships for international high school students based on merit can be attained by the student in some institutions. Usually the institution will also cover student health insurances. (Student Travel and Health Insurance 101)

Spain is a beautiful country and because of the cheaper educational programs as compared to other countries in Europe, it is one of the most popular academic destinations among students who wish to study abroad. Among other things, it is not difficult to get student visas for study abroad programs to Spain; Student travel is easier with student travel discounts that are available and there is no problem when it comes to the question of student housing, the international student also has the pleasure of choosing suitable accommodations from a variety of options.

For more info see Study Abroad

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Do Foreign Student Exchange and Cultural Exchange Programs Offer Lessons in Life?

In the world of cultural exchange programs, learning transcends the walls of classrooms. Adventure enthusiasts, the ambitious as well as bilingual students are drawn to the allure of education via a foreign student exchange program. The excitement of learning, living and experiencing another culture is quite enriching. But aside from the thrill of embarking upon a foreign student exchange, are there any real benefits in cultural exchange programs?

Foreign student exchanges are the perfect medium for living and studying in another country. For students considering international law, employment with a corporate global giant, or just working with another culture, profound knowledge can be gained from the participation of a foreign student exchange. Cultural exchange programs are rewarding because it’s virtually a real-life study on a country’s cultural traditions, language, etiquette, and history. Not to mention, participating in a foreign student exchange can enhance one’s transnational competencies, a redeeming quality in future employment opportunities.

Aside from the academic benefits of a foreign student exchange, the personal development potential is invaluable. Study abroad students can grow on many levels. Cultural exchange programs represent the opportunity for young adults to mature on a personal and intellectual level. More importantly, with the life experience gained from foreign student exchange, the exposure inspires students to make the following personal improvements:

■ Personal growth

■ Boosts self-confidence

■ Encourages leaderships through independent thinking

■ Challenges students academically

The vast majority of high school and college students, who embark upon a foreign student exchange opportunity, have never really been away from home – in the sense of leaving the United States. Although, many students may experience a little homesickness in the beginning, once they are acclimated to the cultural exchange program, the experience can be life transforming.

Studying abroad can expand one’s intellectual horizon. From an informed and real-life perspective, students are able to learn about international affairs and how geopolitics and economic factors affect the world we live in.

Participating in a foreign student exchange or cultural exchange program study is a way for student to secure their future career path. Aside from the academic advantages and personal empowerment, foreign student exchanges symbolize a wealth of career benefits. Cultural exchange programs offer students the following professional, career and life skills advantages:

■ Improve cross-cultural communication skills

■ More employment opportunities in business, international affairs, and government service.

■ Enhance analytical skills

■ Gain the ability to adapt and be flexible to new circumstances

■ Constructively cope and deal with differences

■ An understanding and familiarity of local customs

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Study Abroad

Blog This! at the top of the blogspot.com page will generate and post the link for you. Way cool! Here are the 2 blogger pages from the round up below.

South America - Watch Out :-)

I loves me some Sverige

Foreign Exchange Student Blog Roundup................

swaantje a German exchange student from the Exchange Student in Angthong - lost in thailand! blog has pictures of her trip along with her experiences so far in Thailand.

Jess from South America - Watch Out :-) blog gives a detailed description of the experiences from her new home in Bolivia. She promises to update every 2 weeks. I hope so Jess!

American Sarah of the I loves me some Sverige blog fills us in on her first 2 days in Sweden as an exchange student. 4 posts in 2 days...I think Sarah is going to keep us well informed on her Swedish excursion.

Candlejmr of AjourneytoaNewMe discovers a New Type of Stress as her and the family go to the airport to welcome their new foreign exchange student from Taiwan.

Foreign Exchange Student News

Students get their first taste of America

from the News Leader in Springfield, MO reports on an outing of some foreign exchange students from China, Japan, Indonesia, the Czech Republic and Germany.

'Christmas in August' for Aspen boys tennis in the Aspen Times - Aspen boys tennis coach Sherril Kerr knew a foreign exchange student from the Czech Republic was going to join her team this fall. She had no clue he would be her best player.

Myths on Host Families and International Students

There are innumerous misnomers, myths and misconceptions about being a host family for an international student or foreign exchange student. While the responsibility may seem overwhelming, a little extra effort is needed to assure a seamless transition for both the student and the host family.

Myth #1: Host families must speak the exchange student’s native language –fluently.

On the contrary, study abroad students are required to speak English. It is a prerequisite because it ensures that the international student will be able to integrate, function and communicate effectively to benefit from the program. Certain programs will screen foreign exchange students abroad. Then an acceptance committee in America will evaluate the international student.

Myth #2: Host families become the international student’s legal guardian during their stay.

A foreign exchange student’s natural parents are ALWAYS considered the legal guardians of the student. During, the international student’s stay with a host family, the student’s foreign exchange program is legally responsible for the student. The only major task the host family may have to take on is if the foreign exchange student becomes ill. All international students have health insurance and a Certificate of Health. The document includes a medical release form which authorizes the host family the right to seek medical attention for the student in the case of an emergency.

Myth #3: Host families are financially responsible for the foreign exchange student’s living expenses.

International students NOT host families are responsible for their own living expenses. Their natural parents and families will provide them with enough money to cover the following: school lunch fare, pocket cash, phone bills, educational supplies/expenses and recreational spending money.

Myth #4: Host families are required to placate to every whim of the international student.

Absolutely not. Foreign exchange students have responsibilities – just like the other kids in one’s home. Students should adapt to their host family's lifestyle, activities as well as house rules. Because the international student is being hosted for academic purposes opposed to a vacation, the student program necessitates both effort and work to enable learning. (A foreign exchange student is expected to assist with the host family chores).

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Study Abroad

Foreign Exchange Student Blog Roundup................

jaimeanne over at The Life and Times of Daniel, Jaime and Ava Simone has a great post on her experience with several foreign exchange students her family hosted. Foreign Exchanges and stuff. . .

shydolt at shyAcBaRi recounts her day to day experience in Mexico as part of a Korean-Mexico exchange program. Mexican Youth Institute

and finally

Ipsmommy at the Host Family to an Exchange Student blog, writes about her frustration and excitement as the time for her exchange student to arrive approaches. This promises to be an enlightening read on the interactions between Host Family and Exchange Students. Host Family to an Exchange student


Foreign Exchange Student News


First hand account of a young man from Pennsylvania on being a Foreign Exchange Student in Turkey. City teen reflects on time in Turkey

5 Reasons to Consider Hosting a Foreign Exchange Student

The advantages of hosting an exchange student are abounding. From the exposure of another culture to the rewarding sense of fulfillment, there are five reasons to open one’s home to students studying abroad.

Personal and familial development.

Be it travel, school or work, foreign interaction is a part of life. When individuals and families, open their home to a student studying abroad, personal development is inevitable. Familiarization with other races, cultures and ethnicities expands the mind to the new and exotic. It offers the entire family a fast study on how to be adaptive to foreign interactions, demonstrates how similar and different everyone is.

Newfound respect and understanding.

Once hosts open their homes to exchange students, a natural family-like relationship transpires between the foreign exchange student and the host family. Learning about another person’s ancestry represents an understanding of the world as seen from the foreign exchange student.

Inspires new language possibilities.

As globalization redefines the world we live in, learning a new language is a rapidly growing asset in the business world. It can be beneficial for both a host and their family. When children are exposed to foreign exchange students, they can learn the fun and simplicity of learning a new language. Hosts, who speak the native language of the foreign exchange students they support host, can brush up on the language.

An enriching life experience.

A fresh perspective along with a renewed appreciation can be learned from the host and foreign exchange student. The co-mingling of divergent ethnicities alleviates the potential of prejudice against other cultures – helping to unite the world making it safer for future generations.

Lifelong Acquaintance.

At the conclusion of a study abroad student’s term, many hosts, families and students remain long-term friends. Saying good-bye represents the next phase of the newly developed, lifelong relationship and a rewarding lifetime experience.

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Study Abroad