Why a High School Exchange with SGA Is the Right Choice

A high school exchange abroad is far more than changing schools. It is a life-shaping experience that helps you grow academically, linguistically, and personally. Spending a year abroad in high school opens new perspectives and strengthens your path toward university and future career goals.

Still unsure? Here are four reasons why a high school exchange with StudentsGoAbroad is the right decision:

Students gain shared intercultural experience during exchange program at high school

International Experience

Spending a school year abroad means thinking, learning, and living in a new language every day. You develop intercultural awareness, independence, and confidence — qualities that give you a clear advantage in Universities and your future career.

A group of students studying together in the library during an international student exchange

High-Quality Education

Our partner high schools abroad offer modern facilities, dedicated teachers, and diverse subject combinations. Whether you choose a full academic year or a semester abroad, you gain authentic insights and valuable academic experience.

Students explore the city of their school exchange program with their supervisors.

Safe & Structured Experience

A high school exchange is a major step — for both students and parents. That is why we focus on clear processes, transparent communication, and reliable on-site supervision. A dedicated local coordinator supports you throughout your entire stay.

Parents and students visit the school of an international exchange program together.

Personalized School Selection

Your preferences matter. Depending on the country and program, you can choose between public high schools, private schools, or boarding schools. We help you find the right school that matches your interests, age, and academic goals.


Destinations for Our Global High School Exchange Programs

Students explore the USA during a high school exchange program abroad

Other Destinations

We are currently expanding our high school exchange programs to additional countries, including England, the USA, and Canada. If you are interested in a high school year abroad in one of these destinations, feel free to contact us.

More destinations coming soon!

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Ready For Your School Year Abroad?

Finding the right high school abroad can feel overwhelming. Is the school safe? What is the academic standard like? How does the exchange program work? Our experienced advisors guide you step by step toward your ideal high school exchange experience.

Your Path to a High School Exchange – Step by Step

#1

Free Initial Consultation

During your free consultation, we discuss your goals, preferred destinations, school types, and duration. Parents are welcome to join the conversation.

#2

Application & Documentation

You submit your school reports, references, and an English language assessment. We carefully review all of your documents and advise you on the next steps.

#3

School Selection & Placement

Together, we select the right high school — public, private, or boarding. Depending on the country, you may have a say in choosing your school. Once accepted, your placement is secured.

#4

Preparation & Organization

We support you with all organizational aspects — from deadlines and school coordination to accommodation options, travel planning, and required documentation.

#5

Arrival & On-Site Support

After arrival, experienced local coordinators support you. Your school, host family, and local team ensure that you settle in quickly and feel confident.

#6

Return with New Perspectives

After your semester or high school year abroad, you return home with stronger language skills, greater independence, and valuable international experience that shapes your future.


Teilnehmende unserer Schüleraustausches bei einem gemeinsamen Ausflug in Irland's Natur

StudentsGoAbroad

How We Support Your High School Exchange

A high school exchange abroad requires planning, coordination, and experience — and that’s exactly where we come in.

Personal Consultation – Before you apply, we discuss your goals, preferences, and available options in detail.

Structured Application Process We review your documents, provide guidance, and coordinate communication with schools in your host country.

Preparation & Organization Support – From deadlines and school placement to accommodation and travel planning, we guide you step by step.

Ongoing Support During Your Stay – You are never on your own. Experienced local coordinators work closely with your school and host family to ensure your exchange experience is safe, structured, and enriching.


Still got questions? Check our FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About Our High School Exchange Programs

A high school exchange abroad is a major decision — for both students and parents. In this FAQ section, we answer the most common questions about applications, program duration, school types, accommodation, and support during your high school year abroad.

A high school exchange abroad is ideal for students aged 13 to 18 who want to spend a semester or full academic year at a high school overseas.

A high school year abroad is particularly suitable for students who:

  • Want to improve their English skills

  • Are open to experiencing new cultures

  • Have average to above-average academic performance

  • Are ready to take responsibility for their personal development

Adaptability, motivation, and a positive attitude toward the exchange program are equally important.

The duration of a high school exchange program abroad varies depending on the country. In most cases, you can choose between:

  • One term (approx. 3 months)

  • One semester

  • A full academic year abroad

In countries such as Ireland, the school year is divided into multiple terms. The earlier you apply, the wider the selection of schools and programs available.

Yes — in many of our high school exchange programs, you have the opportunity to influence or select your host high school.

Depending on the destination, you can choose between:

  • Public high schools

  • Private high schools

  • Boarding schools

Final placement depends on school capacity and admission criteria. We provide personalized guidance to help you find the right school abroad.

During your high school year abroad, you will either live:

  • With a carefully selected host family

  • Or in a boarding school residence

Host families provide a welcoming home environment and allow for deep cultural immersion. Boarding schools offer structured community life with clear routines and supervision.

The application process for studying abroad in high school follows a clear structure:

  1. Free initial consultation

  2. Submission of school reports and references

  3. Review of documents and placement coordination

  4. Preparation and organization

Depending on the country, additional documents such as an English test or medical reports may be required.

Visa requirements depend on your nationality and the destination country.

Within the European Union — for example, for a high school exchange in Ireland — EU citizens do not require a visa. For other destinations, country-specific regulations apply. We provide individual guidance regarding visa requirements.

From the moment you arrive until the end of your program, you will have a dedicated local coordinator.

This coordinator works closely with:

  • Your host high school

  • Your host family or boarding school

  • And us as your sending organization

This structured cooperation ensures that your high school exchange experience is safe, positive, and well-supported.

Places at high schools abroad are limited. We recommend applying at least 6–9 months before your intended school start date.

In general: the earlier you apply, the greater your choice of schools and destinations.