HIGH SCHOOL
PARENTS FAQ
What is a student exchange?
Do we have to host an exchange student in our family in return?
No, your family does not have to accept an exchange student in return. The term “exchange” is more about the cultural experiences that your child has, but also the exchange family.
When is the right time for a student exchange?
The exchange program in Germany is always in demand. It is best to speak to the school principal early on about the possibility of a student exchange. On average, most exchange students go to the USA in 10th grade or 11th grade. It also depends on whether your child’s school offers the Abitur after 12 or 13 years. Since the school year often has to be repeated in Germany for a year-round exchange, another time is also possible.
Does my child have to repeat the class after the exchange year or can he or she get credit for the achievements?
This decision is made by the school in your home country. We recommend that you clarify with the contact persons at the school before your stay abroad whether and under what circumstances a repetition year can be avoided.
What is the process after signing the contract?
After signing the contract, your child’s personal supervisor will contact you and explain the next steps in detail. Following the compilation of the application documents, we will look for suitable schools, families and sports teams in cooperation with our partners in the USA. As soon as you and your child have made a decision on one of the options presented, we start applying for the visa and check off all further steps on the way to the plane together.
Can I visit my child in the United States?
It is of course possible for you to visit your child in the USA. However, we do not recommend dropping your children off with the host family or visiting them during the year, as otherwise the path to independence can be disturbed. You are welcome to pick up your child in the USA at the end of the program and explore the country together.
Can the exchange year end early?
We hope that you will encourage your child not to give up after the first negative experience. Apart from that, it is possible to cancel the exchange at any time.
Is there any financial aid for an exchange year in the USA?
Customers recruit customers:
For every athlete referred you will receive a credit of € 200 off the service fee.
Foreign students BAföG:
For school stays in the USA there is the possibility to apply for BAföG for foreign students.