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” refers to the cultural expe­ri­ences that your child has, but also the host family.

When is the right time for a student exchange?

Exchange programs are always in high demand in Germany. It is best to speak to the school principal early on about the possi­bi­lity of a student exchange. 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 school year upon retur­ning from the USA or can he or she receive credit for all classes?

This decision is made by the school in your home country. We recom­mend that you clarify with the contact persons at your home 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 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 will start applying for the visa and check off all further steps on the way to start your journey abroad 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 in the US or visi­ting them during the year, as it may disturb their path towards inde­pen­dence. 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.