High School Abroad

What does high school abroad mean?

A high school stay abroad is a temporary school year or half-year at a school outside Germany. You attend regular classes, live with a host family or in a boarding school and fully immerse yourself in the culture of the host country.

Programs & Options

Public high schools

An authentic insight into everyday school life. You live with a host family, choose subjects such as sports, art or science and become part of the school team.

Private schools

Smaller classes, intensive support and often special focuses (e.g. music, technology or art). In some countries, private schools are the only option for exchange students.

Boarding schools

Accommodation directly on the school grounds, structured daily routine and additional leisure activities. Ideal for students who want more independence.

Countries & Regions

Your choice of country determines your type of school, costs and cultural experience. We provide programs in:

• USA – Diversity in culture, subjects and school traditions.
• Canada – safe environment, friendly people and modern schools.
• England & Ireland – European, English-speaking, rich in tradition.
• Australia & New Zealand – leisure in nature, relaxed culture.

In each country there are differences in terms of duration, Visa and requirements. Our advice will help you choose the right country.

Requirements & Age

Most programs are aimed at students between the ages of 14 and 18. What is important is a healthy dose of curiosity, sufficient language skills and the willingness to get involved in new things. In some countries, certain grades or language tests are required.

Costs & Financing

The costs vary greatly depending on the country, duration, type of school and accommodation. For an initial overview, take a look at our costs page and find out about scholarships and financing options.

Process & preparation

1. Advice & selection: Together we clarify your wishes, budget and requirements.
2. Book a program: After selecting the country and type of school, we take care of registration and formalities.
3. Preparation: Language courses, Visa applications, contact with the host family, packing list.
4. Departure & Stay: Support from local partners, regular contact with you and your parents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is a high school stay abroad suitable for?

A high school program is aimed at young people who want to experience more than just vacation. You should be open to other cultures and willing to fit in with a host family or boarding school community. Properties like Openness, tolerance and curiosity as well as Joy of contact and Self-discipline help you make the most of your stay. Anyone who enjoys taking on new challenges and is prepared to take on responsibility will quickly find a connection and grow from their experiences.

A high school program is less suitable if you have severe homesickness problems, find it difficult to get involved with new people or are currently having a hard time academically. Therefore, think carefully about whether you are ready to leave your usual environment and try something new.

Advantages and disadvantages at a glance

Advantages

• Improve English skills: You speak English or French every day and learn faster than in class.
• Growing personally: Students develop self-confidence, independence and intercultural competence.
• New friends & networks: International contacts and close friendships arise through living and learning together.
• Plus for the future: Experience abroad and language skills are an advantage for later applications.

Disadvantages

• High costs: Depending on the country and type of school, programs can cost appreciable amounts.
• Academic recognition: Not all subjects are recognized in Germany; Find out about the rules in your federal state beforehand.
• Homesickness & Adjustment: It takes time to get used to a new environment. You have to be prepared to deal with homesickness and culture shock.

Parent perspective & safety

For parents, the safety of the child is the top priority. Good organizations carefully screen host families and provide one for each student Local Rep If you have any problems, you can be reached 24 hours a day. If serious conflicts arise, the host family can be changed - but such cases are rare. Boarding schools also offer permanent structures and supervisors on campus.

Parents should also keep in mind that although the program is expensive, it has many long-term benefits: young people become more self-confident, develop better time management and learn to deal with responsibility. With early planning, reliable advice and an emergency plan, parents can approach the adventure in a relaxed manner.

Decision aids

Whether a high school abroad is right for you depends on your personality, your goals and your family environment. Suitable if… you are curious, like to face new situations, want to get to know other cultures and are ready to take on responsibility. Less suitable if… you don't like breaking out of your daily routine, have difficulty making friends, or have family obligations for the foreseeable future.

Take time to weigh the pros and cons and talk to former exchange students. Our advice will help you objectively evaluate the options and find the program that really suits you.