
What will I get out of a year abroad?
When you return from your high school exchange year, you will realize just how much living and studying abroad has given you: new friends, new language skills, experiences of different cultures, more self-confidence, tons of fun experiences and wonderful memories. You will also have fantastic international experience to add to your CV – and that is truly an advantage for you in the future.
Why an exchange year is an investment in your future:
A head start.
The experience of living and studying abroad, and speaking another language fluently provide numerous advantages. That will stand out when you apply to higher education programs and jobs in the future!
Personal growth.
Being curious and challenging yourself will enrich your life. It will help you develop many qualities that are sought after in working life, like independence, social skills, and taking initiative.
An international network of friends.
You will get an extra family and new best friends in another country. Be sure to stay in touch, because it’s a wonderful asset to have friends all over the world. An international network is invaluable, both in your private life and for your future career.
A new perspective on your own culture.
Studying in a different country will help you expand your view of the world. You will see your own culture through new eyes and learn a lot about yourself. What do you like about your new country? What is different? It is also fun to be able to share the traditions and values of your country when you are away.
Before your year abroad
Before your year abroad
Home » High school » Before your year abroad » Benefits of a year abroad 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,…
The application process
Home » High school » Before your year abroad » Benefits of a year abroad How to become a high school exchange student? From idea to arrival — the application process Curious about how to become a high school exchange student? This page walks you through every step – from your first chat with us…
Who can apply
Home » High school » Before your year abroad » Benefits of a year abroad Who can go on an exchange year? Spending a year as an exchange student offers great opportunities. Most important of all is that you are curious and have an open mind. It is a way to experience tons of incredible…
Meet us
Home » High school » Before your year abroad » Benefits of a year abroad Webinars and events Are you thinking of going on a high school exchange abroad, for a semester or an entire school year? Do you have questions and concerns? We have the answers. A real good start is to sign up…
Classic and Select
Home » High school » Before your year abroad » Benefits of a year abroad Choose between Classic and Select A year abroad is a springboard for achieving your full potential and your future is in your hands. Spending a high school year abroad as a teen is incredibly enriching and people who do it…
Prepare yourself with our language courses
Home » High school » Before your year abroad » Benefits of a year abroad Prepare yourself with a language course! Are you going on an exchange year to an English, Spanish, German, French or Italian speaking country? Prepare yourself with our digital language course! It’ll help you master the language once you’re there and…
Benefits of a year abroad
Home » High school » Before your year abroad » Benefits of a year abroad What will I get out of a year abroad? When you return from your high school exchange year, you will realize just how much living and studying abroad has given you: new friends, new language skills, experiences of different cultures,…
10 things to bring on an exchange year
Home » High school » Before your year abroad » Benefits of a year abroad 10 things to bring on an exchange year Remember to pack as light as possible. In a whole year abroad, you will end up getting lots of new things that you probably want to be able to bring home with…
In safe hands with STS
Legacy
Since 1958 over 1,200,000 students have studied abroad with us.
Trusted hosts
With carefully selected host family by your side, you’ll always feel at home abroad.
24/7 support
We’re here for you 24/7 when you are studying abroad.
Get started – Chat with a high school expert
Got questions? We’re here to help you figure it all out.
STS at a glance

Founded in
1958
20+
destinations
24/7
support

