How to Become an Foreign Exchange Student
Have you ever dreamed of living in another country? Are you curious about what life would be like in a different part of the world? There are many opportunities for foreign exchange programs that allow students to obtain a foreign language education while they live abroad. These programs are typically offered through universities, high schools, or international organizations, and they provide students with valuable cultural experiences and skills.
The process of becoming an exchange student is not difficult, but it does require some planning and preparation. This article will outline how to become an exchange student and what steps need to be taken before you depart for your host country.
Choosing a University Program
There are several universities around the world that offer programs where students can study abroad as part of their degree program. The best way to find these programs is through university websites or by contacting the admissions office directly. In order for a university program to qualify as an exchange program, it must follow certain guidelines set forth by The Council on Standards for International Educational Travel (CSIET). This organization ensures that student safety and well-being are prioritized during their time abroad by requiring participating institutions to meet certain standards when providing housing accommodations, transportation arrangements, medical insurance coverage, emergency contact information.
How To Become An Foreign Exchange Student
- What is a Foreign Exchange Student?
- Becoming a Foreign Exchange Student: Step By Step Guide
- State Department Exchange Programs
- Conclusion
Becoming a foreign exchange student is a rewarding experience. Many college students have either made up their minds to become foreign exchange students for a semester or just toying with that idea. Either way, your life will never be the same once you decide.
Foreign exchange programs offer various options; that’s why our article can help you become more familiar with the concept of a foreign exchange student and becoming one. So, if you’re interested to know more about it, this step-by-step guide will help you with that.
What is a Foreign Exchange Student?
As the name suggests, a foreign exchange student is a student who goes to a foreign country abroad to study and live as part of an exchange program. As part of their course of study, these students will enroll in classes at a local university or high school.
In the U.S, exchange students are encouraged to have extracurricular activities which enhance their experiences. Among many educational benefits, foreign exchange students also have a chance to develop critical thinking, improve their English language skills, and learn more about cultures.
Becoming a Foreign Exchange Student: Step By Step Guide
Becoming a foreign exchange student is exciting, but the process is not that much. This process will require some research and planning beforehand if you want to have a memorable experience. You want to find the right exchange program, a host country, search for scholarships, etc. If this looks intimidating to you, don’t worry! Our guide will provide you with the information you need before and during your application process.
Research study programs
If you have already decided on becoming a foreign exchange student, it’s time to research study programs. Ideally, you want to research programs during January to apply as early as possible, most preferably four months earlier.
The number one criterion that exchange programs have is academic success. If you’re in an excellent educational place, foreign exchange programs will most likely consider your application. However, before deciding on a study program, think about the country you want to study in.
We’ve compiled a list of programs that are certified by the Council on Standards for International Student Exchange, and you can check them out yourself:
- NorthWest Student ExchangeAFS-USA
- American Scandinavian Student Exchange (ASSE)
- Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE)
- International Student Exchange (ISE)
Identify the host country & university
Another important foreign exchange student’s concern is choosing the country and university where they will have their experience. When considering the country you want to study in, it’s essential to think about your head and heart. A good host country must have three things:
- Be safe
- Have a first-world health system
- Have no mass social unrest
Some countries may not be safe due to civil wars, oppression or discrimination against minorities, or because they don’t like foreign people. It’s essential to research your host country and check if it’s a safe country with a Western-standard medical system. After all, your health is your priority.
After choosing your country, the next thing is to decide on a university. Here are some essential criteria to consider:
- Pick your discipline: you might find some interesting Bachelor’s or Master’s programs, but the most popular fields include finances, economics, marketing, health sciences, or public health.
- Decide where you want to study: do some research about the country or university with the study programs you’re interested in. Also, consider career opportunities, living costs, facilities, or transport.
- Use search engines: professional web platforms are helpful when you want to get information about a particular university and what options it offers. You can check websites like Bachelorsportal, Mastersportal, or PhDportal.
- Look for international University Rankings: The best ranking systems give an outline of international universities, such as
- U.S News Global Universities Rankings
- QS World University Rankings
- Times Higher Education World University Rankings
Provide language proficiency scores
If your native language is English or your country uses English (75%), you don’t need to submit language proficiency scores. You can’t expect to study in a country where you don’t have basic language proficiency skills. But, language requirements can vary between programs and countries.
Specific programs require a B2 or C1 level of English, so you need to have proficiency scores in tests such as:
- IELTS – 6.5 or 6
- TOEFL and TOEFL IBT Home Edition 100 or 87
- Cambridge Certificate in Proficiency in English (CPE)
- Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (CAE) level C1
- Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst (DAAD) B2 or C1.
Submit the application & supporting documents
Before submitting your application, make sure that you have written an excellent exchange application if you want to impress everyone. After writing a killer application, you should find an agency to begin your application process. This multi-layered process includes:
