We recommend applying 6–12 months in advance. Some destinations and schools fill up quickly, and applying early gives you more flexibility – especially if you have special requests or want to travel in the autumn. However, we can often accommodate last-minute applications too, so don’t hesitate to contact us even if your timeline is tight.  

Yes – in some destinations, students can start their exchange as long as they’re not older than 18.5 years at arrival. We’ll help you figure out which options are open to you.  

It depends on the program type. In the Classic program, you’ll be placed in a location where a host family has chosen to welcome you into their home. It could be a small town, a suburb, or a larger city. In the Select program, you get to choose the school and region yourself, based on your interests, academics, or lifestyle.  Read more about the programs.

Yes! It’s possible – but unless you both choose the Select program and coordinate your preferences, we can’t guarantee you’ll be placed in the same school or area. That said, we usually recommend doing this adventure on your own – it’s a unique chance to grow, discover who you are, and build new relationships in a completely new environment.  

That’s not a problem in most cases. We make an individual assessment based on your situation. Just let us know early in the process.  

Many schools offer clubs, teams, or elective courses – and your host family can often help find activities locally. Let us know when you apply so we can factor it into your choice of program. With our Select program you can choose a school that matches your preferences – whether it’s sports, arts, academics, or another passion you’d like to pursue.  

There are additional costs outside the program fee. These may include:  
• Travel insurance  
• Visa and related fees (if applicable)  
• Pocket money and personal expenses  
• School lunches  
• Public transport or school bus  
• Uniform and school supplies (if required)  
• Optional trips and excursions  
• Medical exams or vaccines (if required)  
• Costs related to special diets or sports activities  
We’ll explain what applies to your destination and program.  

You’ll be supported by your local contact person, your host family, and our team – both in your home country and host country. You’ll also have 24/7 support throughout your exchange.  

That’s totally normal – especially early on. We help all students prepare emotionally with resilience training, and your host family and local contact person will be there for you. Many students find that with support and time, they settle in and thrive. 

Yes, but only at the end of your program. The visit should be planned in advance and approved by your local contact person – and your parents will need to arrange separate accommodation.  

That depends on your destination and program. In the Classic program, most students are placed in public schools. In Select, you can choose between public and private schools based on your priorities.  

It’s easy! Just book a free consultation – and we’ll help you figure out the best destination, program, and timeline for your exchange.  

STS has been a trusted name in student exchange since 1958, and we’ve helped more than 1.2 million students discover the world through education. Today, we’re part of Educatius Group – the world’s largest organization for high school exchange abroad. That means global reach, local support, and decades of experience backing your journey.