High School Abroad
How a School Year Abroad Works
A year abroad will be easier to plan if you know the steps: orientation, advice, application, placement, preparation, departure and return. The process shows when which decision becomes important.
1. Decision & Research
Start by asking yourself why you want to do a year abroad and what your goal is. Collect information about countries, programs and school types. Involve your parents in the decision and check your budget.
2. Select organization
Compare organizations based on their services, experiences and costs. Our pages Student Exchange Organization and Compare providers help you choose. Arrange consultations to clarify any open questions.
3. Application & documents
Submit your application to the selected organization. This includes letters of motivation, certificates, language tests and personal questionnaires. You will receive feedback about the process and further requirements.
4. Preparation & Visa
After placement, you will take care of the Visa, vaccinations and insurance. Attend preparation meetings or webinars. If necessary, meet your host family online and discuss expectations and rules.
5. Departure & Stay
Now it starts! Pack carefully, take important documents with you and keep in touch with your organization and host family. Use the year to choose new subjects, make friends and get to know the culture.
6. Return & Follow-up
After your return, follow-up meetings will help you reflect on what you experienced. Keep in touch with your host family and use your newly acquired knowledge for school and the future. Clarify with your school whether the achievements will be recognized.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the application process take?
Depending on the organization, several months. Ideally, start several months before your departure.
When do I meet my host family?
You will usually receive your host family profile several months before departure and can make contact.
Do I have to repeat the class after the year?
This depends on the state and your academic performance. Many students return to school regularly; clarify this with your school beforehand.
What happens if there are problems on site?
You can contact your local coordinator. In the event of serious problems, a change of host family or termination of the program will be organized.
What counts for the decision
- The course of a year abroad should always be viewed with an eye on everyday life, school, budget and return.
- Students need a solution that appears linguistically, socially and personally accessible.
- Parents need understandable information about care, safety, responsibilities and planning.
For further planning this fits: Application, Deadlines, Visa.
Related Topics
What Makes Sense Now
If you would like to clarify the next steps, we will sort out the countries, duration, budget, accommodation and any outstanding parental questions together.