Before your year abroad

We’ve been working with international exchanges for over 65 years and we have all the knowledge and experience necessary to be able to offer an extraordinary experience. Many of us at STS were exchange students ourselves, so we know exactly how a school year abroad works. We know what awaits, and we know how you feel. We are passionate about helping as many people as possible get to experience everything that this year involves, and we truly look forward to sharing our commitment to international exchange with you. You have an incredible journey ahead of you and we are here to make sure you have the time of your life!

We’re here to help you!

Preparations are an exciting and important part of your year abroad, and no one can prepare you better than we can. The more you know about what awaits, the better. So learn as much as you can before your trip, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. We will guide you through the various steps, from application to preparations and departure.

Choosing a country

Do you want to experience American high school spirit? Most of our students do, but at STS, we are proud to offer as many as 20 different countries from which to choose. And take a look at our destination options for your year abroad here.

Apply well in advance!

Preferably, apply a year before you intend to go – but in March of that year at the very latest. A late application can mean both that the range of countries you can go to is limited and that a late application can mean extra costs.

The process of finding a host family and school that are a good fit for you is also important, so the earlier we can begin searching for a family and school, the better! So remember: submit your application well in advance to give yourself a good head start. Contact us for more information.

Visa application

You need a visa to live and study in some countries. If this applies, we will give you all the information you need to make the visa application process as smooth as possible for you. You will apply for the visa yourself, because it is a personal document. If a visa is required, you are responsible for the cost.

Webinars

We will invite you to a webinar in which we provide step-by-step help with the various tasks that need to be done before your departure.

Pre-departure orientation

We will invite you and all other exchange students to a Pre depature orientation (PDO) with information and inspiration. We hold the meetings in several cities, but if you are unable to attend in person, it is fine to attend one of our meetings online. You will have the chance to meet others who are just as enthusiastic as you are about attending high school abroad. Parents are also welcome, because we know it’s important that they understand all the incredible things that lie ahead of you.