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Exchange Students
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Information about Exchange Students
There are many foreign students who dream of coming to America to study and immerse in a whole new culture and environment. It is something that they have always wanted to do and experience. For this reason, several US government sectors, private organizations, and US educational institutions work with many different countries to pave the way for student exchange programs. This article is aimed at educating interested parties on how to qualify, what requirements are needed, and what to expect if they wish to become exchange students.
What is a Student Exchange Program?
It is a program in which a student goes to another country to learn more about their culture and language. Students live with a host family- program volunteers who have been carefully chosen for the purpose of helping foreign students adjust well to the new environment. In the US, a host family will require a criminal background check to ensure the safety of exchange students. There are 3 types of exchanges available: short-term, long-term, and specialized short-term. Short-term is typically a few weeks, long-term is about 10-12 months, and specialized short-term is about 1-3 months.
Qualifications and Requirements
Students should be at least in high school to qualify. They would usually need to apply to various organizations that provide student exchange programs to the US, and an application form can be filled out and submitted online. Generally, to qualify, a student must be 15 to 18 years old with good academic standing (a GPA minimum of 2.00). He/she must also be mature enough to be able to adapt to a new environment, possess admirable leadership qualities, and do well in the personal interview to be conducted by the program organizers. Additionally, there are fees to be paid and would usually amount to at least $5,000. Grants are available, which may reduce the costs for exchange students.
Expectations Prior to Departure
The primary goal of an exchange student is to learn and experience the culture and language in the US. It would be best for exchange students if they could develop basic fluency of the english language before they leave home so that they will not have a very difficult time communicating with Americans. Moreover, they should know the rules, laws, and customs in the US as well, as this will help them adjust easily. Before departure, the student will need to secure the following: passport, student visa, airline tickets, immunization papers, health insurance, and dental and medical exam.
What to Do Once in the US
Upon arrival, host families and exchange program organizers will meet the exchange students at the airport. It might be a good idea to bring small gifts for host families, as a way of showing gratefulness for being given the opportunity to live with them, with free room and board. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities in the host community and attend school for those who are under the long-term program. If the exchange student will experience some problems while in the US, he needs to get in touch with the organization that facilitated the exchange program to ensure his safety.
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