The experience of independent living, learning foreign languages and communicating with native speakers, mastering the culture of states, unforgettable moments and photos in social networks - all this is provided by international exchange programs. Experts tell you how to start studying on an exchange abroad, what difficulties you can face, and how to prepare for such an adventure.
What are the exchange programs?
Exchange programs are based on the principle of reciprocity: students or schoolchildren from different countries exchange places. For example, a student from Moscow may go to study in Paris, and his French peer will come to study in a Russian school. Participants in such programs have the opportunity to study or intern abroad for one or more academic semesters. For students, there is an opportunity for employment during their studies, which contributes to immersion in society and gives a chance to earn extra money.
To participate in the international exchange program, you must speak the language of the host country at the B1 level or higher - this is the main requirement.
Benefits of Participating in Exchange Programs
Here are a few reasons why it's worth taking the risk and going to study abroad:
- Participation in such programs provides a unique life experience. Connecting with young people from other cultures, understanding their traditions and way of life, making friends from all over the world is a real treasure;
- improvement of foreign language skills in the country of its native speakers;
- The quality of education at foreign universities, such as Oxford, Yale and Cambridge, often exceeds the standards of their home countries. Thanks to exchange programs, it is possible to get a high-quality education without significant costs;
- The best students can expect a scholarship or even a job in the country of study after graduation;
- Many universities have partnership agreements that guarantee students accommodation on campus or with a host family – this gives the student a chance to immerse themselves in culture and life;
- Exchange programs do not only affect education, but also play a key role in strengthening cultural and economic ties between countries.
Preparation for participation in the exchange program
If a student decides to embark on such an adventure, there are many pitfalls waiting for him. However, if you know about them in advance, you can avoid most of the difficulties.
- Exchange projects are not always free. It is important to take into account that in addition to paying for the educational process, you will need funds for living expenses, paperwork and relocation;
- Moving to another country is difficult, because the student will have to adapt to new conditions. An active study life and new acquaintances help to get used to a new environment faster, you should not sit at home like an owl;
- The Host Family may have its own rules and regulations – it is important to remember this and be prepared for small changes in everyday life. Thankfully, curators are usually helpful in resolving issues that arise. You can always come to an agreement, be open!
Overview of Exchange Programs for Students and Schoolchildren
When choosing an exchange program, you should know that they can be paid or budget-friendly. There are usually more paid programs, but despite the cost, many of them work with the support of government agencies, which means that a student can get a good discount or some kind of grant. Government or charitable programs are fully externally funded.
Examples of some exchange programs for schoolchildren:
- AFS offers a wide range of destinations for students aged 15-18. Students live with families and attend local educational institutions. The selection of participants is based mainly on knowledge of the English language. Travel expenses are paid by the student's family;
- Flex is a project for students in grades 8-10 from the CIS countries who know English (candidates pass a number of tests to confirm their level);
- The International Student Exchange involves visits to public schools in the United States. All organizational issues, including family tracing and insurance, lie on the shoulders of the organization;
- Experiment in international living is a program for high school students aimed at immersion in culture, language learning, and participation in various social and cultural events.
A selection of the best programs for students wishing to study and intern abroad:
- UGRAD, America. Here, students can immerse themselves in the American academic environment for one semester. The program is looking for promising 3-4 year students with excellent knowledge of English. The main advantage is that all costs are covered by the organizer. The student only needs to take the TOEFL and fill out the form on the UGRAD website, not forgetting to attach letters with recommendations from teachers;
- Work and Travel, America. This project attracts young people between the ages of 18 and 28 who seek to travel and work temporarily in the United States. The program includes work in restaurants, shopping malls, and others. This is a paid project, but almost all the time the participants pay for it;
- Career Training USA, America. The project is aimed at those who seek an internship in accordance with their specialty. It is necessary to pass the TOEFL English language test, actively meet with potential employers from the United States;
- Erasmus, EU countries. The program provides a chance for students to study, work or even teach at an institution in Europe, especially in Spain, France or Germany. Most of the participants receive a scholarship to live in the chosen country. It is very popular, widely represented, therefore the competition is high;
- SMG, UK, Canada, Ireland, USA. This is one of the more affordable programs that allows students to choose an institution on their own. Main areas of study: Arts, Commerce and Technology;
- DAAD, Germany. This program is aimed at the exchange of experience between students and researchers with partners from Germany. Although participants are provided with funding, they must pay for language tuition out of pocket;
- AIESEC, different parts of the world. This global network offers assistance in finding internships or volunteer programs abroad for students with a good knowledge of foreign languages;
- Working Holiday Germany, Germany . This is a comprehensive program that includes education at one of the educational institutions and subsequent practice, most often in the field of catering and service.
