college essay about foreign exchange student

Student Exchange Program Essay: Examples, Topics, & Tips

It is not a secret that for every open slot at a prestigious college, there are from 10 to 15 eager applicants. They often seem equally qualified academically.

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However, it is often the college application essay that sets one lucky applicant apart from the others. While writing is very personal, and styles can vary, the college application mistakes that students tend to make are common. So if you want to find out 10 college application mistakes to avoid, just read this article by Custom Writing experts!

Want to succeed? Just keep reading this article by Custom Writing experts!

• ✅ What to Include
• 👣 Writing Steps
• 💡 Essay Topics
• 👀 Essay Sample

🔗 References

✅ student exchange program essay: what to include.

The following information should be included in a good student exchange essay.

To make your essay really strong, try our hints for writing motivation essays and a personal essay .

👣 Student Exchange Program Essay: Writing Steps

Outshine the other applicants by writing an excellent student exchange essay that demonstrates your ability to think intelligently and express yourself in writing! The process of writing an impressive exchange application essay is not as complicated as you might think.

Just in 1 hour! We will write you a plagiarism-free paper in hardly more than 1 hour

Here are the writing steps that will help you write a thoughtful, convincing, and concise exchange application essay.

💡 Student Exchange Program (FLEX) Essay Topics

• Many students have experiences, identity, or talent that define their character and life. Their application for FLEX would be incomplete without it. Please share your story if it sounds like you . You can find an exchange student essay on this topic below.
• Our success in studies, personal life , and career owes to the lessons learned through overcoming obstacles. Have you ever faced a failure, challenge, or setback that made you stronger and smarter? How did it affect you, and what conclusions did you make?
• Recall a hard problem you had to solve or the one you are still struggling with. For example, it can be a complicated assignment, an intellectual challenge, or an ethical dilemma. Why is it so critical to you? Which steps did you take or could take to find a solution?
• Reflect on a belief or idea that you felt was wrong. Why did you question it? What result did you reach in these thoughts?
• Our accomplishments and realizations spark a new understanding of life and personal growth . Tell about a similar event that changed the way you perceive yourself and others.
• Describe an idea or topic that is engaging enough to make you lose track of time. Why is it so captivating? What actions do you make to learn more in this field?

👀 Study Abroad Essay Sample

Every person has a talent. It takes a while to discover it, but life becomes similar to an engaging strategy game once you know your vocation. My parents never insisted on my selecting a path. I tried many hobbies and activities, but none of them lasted longer than a year.

Four years ago, I attended my first botany class. At that moment, I understood that it was something I would like to study deeper. So many plants surround us, and we are ignorant of their names and life cycles. This knowledge gives us an opportunity to understand our role on the planet and explore how we can help nature.

This year, I asked myself: what do I want to do in my future life? It didn’t take long to answer. I would like to become a pharmacologist and develop new medicines. But at the moment, I need to study hard. I expect that the study abroad program will allow me to learn more about American culture and make me more open-minded.

As an international student, I will have a chance to perfect my biology knowledge at an American school. I can tell a lot about trees, flowers, and grass, as well as the animals and birds that live in them. That is why I will always have a topic to discuss with my host family and peers. I am looking forward to meeting new people and experiences.

Your student exchange application essay can be the deciding factor for your selection and participation in the student exchange program. There is no doubt that your student exchange essay can be a good indicator of your personality. Make every effort to communicate your enthusiasm for studying abroad and let the student exchange program officials learn about your unique qualities. Also, don’t be shy to use every bit of help that you may require. For instance, try a summary helper if you struggle to finish up your writing properly, get someone to proofread your writing in case you’re not sure if it’s perfect, and so on.

Remember that studying abroad is a life-changing experience that will impact your college career. Don’t miss this chance to invest in your future. Start your journey today with a strongly written and carefully proofread student exchange essay. We promise it will make a difference!

✏️ Student Exchange Essay FAQ

If you write an application for a scholarship, it is crucial that your study abroad essay tells about your personal motivation to participate in the exchange program. Otherwise, you may focus on the general pros and cons of the experience.

When you start a personal statement, keep in mind that it is the way admission committees get to know you. Make sure to provide relevant info about your goals , passions , examples of personal accomplishments , etc.

If it is a welcome letter to a foreign student, express how glad you are to meet them. You may give some advice on how to adapt to the new environment, share your thoughts about the exchange program, and ask about the student’s feelings and impressions .

Some advantages of becoming a foreign exchange student are: broadening your horizons , getting off your comfort zone, making new friends, practicing foreign languages (if applicable), gaining new skills/knowledge. Overall, it is an excellent opportunity to experience something new and valuable.

• 25 Reasons to Study Abroad | Top Universities
• Exchange Programs | U.S. Department of State
• EU students | European Commission
• Student Exchange Programs | EF Foreign Exchange
• International Student Exchange Programs
• 8 Student Exchange Programs for Teens | GoAbroad.com
• How to apply – International Exchange and Study Abroad
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The contest is now closed. Please check Contest Results page to read the essay of the best paper writer. Custom Writing team has selected 15 best works among the submissions, and we gladly invite our blog readers to help us determine three most talented writers amid contest participants.

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Really valid and sensible . Great work. I hope it will help alot

Thank you very much, I also wanted to participate in flex program, but I didn’t understand much about Essay and I understood a lot after seeing this sample

Hello, I am from Uzbekistan. I want to participate in the student exchange program in the USA. How is this test administered? Online or face-to-face and where? And what knowledge should be acquired to participate in the program

This was an useful blog for our institute

How long should a exchange essay be?

Your essay should be up to one page in length if not otherwise required by your professor

Hello. Please help me with my essay. I can not pay. Can you send me some sample essays, please?

It is very helpful thanks.

Good techniques

Activities and Tips

The complete guide to hosting a foreign exchange student [resources, tips].

If your family is thinking of hosting a foreign exchange student, you’ve come to the right place. We’re so excited to share all the tips and resources to make this experience so meaningful that you’ll want to host again.

Hosting a foreign exchange student is an opportunity to help develop the next generation of global leaders. It’s more than clearing a room for a student to come live with your family for a period of time. It’s an opportunity for you to make a lifelong connection with someone, and to introduce an entirely new culture to your home. 

At Ayusa , we’ve helped coordinate high school exchange programs for over 40 years. We have learned that you don't need to fit a single standard to host an exchange student . The variety of our host families reflects the diversity of the American experience. Some of our host families live on farms or in suburbs.

To welcome an exchange student , you just need curiosity, openness to adventure, and lots of love to spare.

If this sounds like you, please let us know what type of hosting experience you and your family are looking for. You can reach us by phone at 888.552.9872 or by filling out a form on our website . You can also get straight to it and start a hosting application .

If you’re wondering if you should host a foreign exchange student , you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll walk you through:

• How foreign exchange student programs work
• What host families need to provide for a foreign exchange student
• The logistics of hosting a foreign exchange student
• Why you should host a foreign exchange student

What Foreign Exchange Students Look for in a Host Family

How foreign exchange student programs work .

If you’re taking the first steps towards learning more about becoming a host family and hosting a foreign exchange student, it’s likely you have a question.

As a host family, your family will welcome a new member into your home to share your everyday lives. As you get to know your foreign exchange student, you will exchange cultural perspectives. In the process, you might be surprised to learn more about your own culture, traditions, and your family members. 

But, how do foreign exchange student programs actually work? Let’s explore the following aspects of a foreign exchange setup and how Ayusa works. 

• Foreign exchange programs bring thousands of students to the United States every year
• Foreign exchange programs have varying lengths
• What host families need to provide for their foreign exchange student
• Other things to know about foreign exchange student programs 

Foreign Exchange Programs Bring Students from Different Countries to the US

Foreign exchange programs like Ayusa bring students from foreign countries to study in the US. 

Every year, millions of exchange students travel across the world to study abroad , with the United States being the number one destination .

The United States provides countless unique benefits to exchange students to learn, grow, and explore the world they have seen in television and movies. Foreign exchange students also have the opportunity to practice their English, explore the many landmarks, and immerse themselves in a life-changing cultural experience. 

Foreign Exchange Programs Can Vary in Length 

Ayusa’s foreign exchange programs have two lengths:

• Academic year program students stay for 10 months and arrive in mid-August.
• Semester students stay for 5 months and arrive in either mid-August or mid-January.

What Host Families Need to Provide for a Foreign Exchange Student

Once you’ve decided that working with a foreign exchange program is the right move for you and your family, you may want to know what you need to provide to comfortably host a foreign exchange student for their five- or ten-month period of time. 

Once you’ve applied to become a host family to a traveling high school student, here are the hosting requirements to make their exchange as comfortable as possible. 

• A comfortable home. Create a comfortable and safe space for your foreign exchange student to live and study. 
• Healthy meals. As a host, you should provide at least three healthy meals per day. 
• Reliable rides. While hosts are not expected to be chauffeurs, they should provide reasonable access to transportation so that students can get to and from school. 
• Welcoming enthusiasm. Finally, provide an open and warm environment for a foreign exchange student. 

FAQs about Hosting Foreign Exchange Students

Before becoming a host family, it’s important to know how to host a foreign exchange student. This includes asking and answering important questions about the logistics of hosting a foreign exchange student. 

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about hosting exchange students.

• Are we good candidates to become a host family? 
• How will Ayusa support my family?
• What responsibilities do host parents have? Should I set rules?
• How much does hosting a foreign exchange student cost?
• Will the foreign exchange student speak English?

Are We Good Candidates to Become a Host Family? 

If you’re asking this question, know that there is no "typical" Ayusa host family. 

Ayusa students enjoy living on farms, in small towns, suburbs, and big cities. Whether you are a married couple with children at home, a single parent, an empty-nester, or a grandparent, the most important criteria is your desire to care for a foreign exchange student during their time in the United States. 

Each community and host family can offer a wonderful and unique opportunity for friendship and learning. Somewhere in the world, there is a student waiting to live with a family just like yours!

How Will AYUSA Support my Family?

A professionally trained Community Representative (CR) will be assigned to work with your family and student for the entire program.

Your CR will maintain regular contact with you and your student monthly, offering advice and support whenever needed.

The CR will also maintain regular contact with your local high school and complete a quarterly report, evaluating your student’s progress in family life, academic achievement, and social activity. Your CR is supported by a team of dedicated regional and national Ayusa staff, available 24 hours a day in case of an emergency.

What Responsibilities do Host Families Have? Should I set Rules?

The best thing you can do for your student is to treat them like a family member. If you would allow your child to do something, you can let your student.

During your year together, we suggest that you set clear, reasonable expectations from the beginning. This makes sure your student understands the house rules from day one.

Some parameters are expectations to set for a foreign exchange student include:

• A reasonable curfew
• Communicating any house rules 
• Assigning chores or weekly responsibilities 
• Creating communication guidelines (i.e. when to check-in if they’re running late) 

By doing this, you will find that your foreign exchange student will more than likely respond to the structure, and will help them feel like part of the family rather than just a guest. 

How Much Does Hosting a Foreign Exchange Student Cost?

Your financial responsibility is minimal. Host families are responsible for providing room and board for students, which includes 3 meals a day. 

Your foreign exchange student's parents will pay for travel costs, program fees, and health insurance. 

They will also provide your student with a monthly spending allowance used for school expenses, social activities, clothing, and other essentials. A $50 per month tax deduction can be claimed for each month you host.

Will the Foreign Exchange Student Speak English?

While some teens will be almost fluent, while others will have a stronger accent and use smaller words depending on how many years they have been studying English. Some students may be overwhelmed or not as confident in their English skills at first. 

Once they settle, their English will likely improve quickly, especially as they meet native English speakers at school. Most foreign exchange students we’ve worked with improve their English significantly throughout the process.

Why Host a Foreign Exchange Student?

Exchange students are looking for an experience that is likely to shape their lives forever—and this is not a one-sided experience. The host family, too, often undergoes a transformative experience that changes the way they see the world.

The benefits of hosting a foreign exchange student include:

• Help a foreign exchange student have a new experience in the United States
• Cross-cultural exchange
• Discover new hobbies
• Create a lifelong relationship

Help a Foreign Student to Have a New Experience in the US

A foreign exchange student program is a great way to engage in cross-cultural experiences.

By hosting a foreign exchange student, you have the opportunity to learn about a new culture and to share your own. Hosting an exchange student also gives you a way to broaden your perspective and learn about the world from a different point of view.

Give your Family the opportunity for Cross-cultural Exchange

Cross cultural exchange is arguably the biggest takeaway that every participant experiences from a foreign exchange program. Yes, this includes the foreign exchange student, their teachers, fellow students, and the host family. 

Cross cultural exchange describes the way people from differing cultural backgrounds communicate among themselves, and how they endeavor to communicate across cultures.

It invites all participants to explore their similarities and their differences without judgment, but with introspection. In fact, cross-cultural exchange has always been a fundamental part of the development of societies.

It remains one of the best ways to enrich societies through mutual understanding. Through this form of exchange, countries and communities have been able to share knowledge. By doing so, they’ve enriched their own cultures.

Discover new Hobbies

Once a foreign exchange student arrives in your home, planning fun and enriching activities is a great way to start the memorable visit off right. 

Since some exchange students experience homesickness or language barriers, planning a few fun activities can do the work to keep everyone busy and engaged. Depending on where you live, the climate, and the time of year, some activities can include:

• Going to the movies 
• Exploring a local park
• Attending a community event, like a parade or a festival 
• Visiting your family’s favorite restaurants 
• Taking a road trip to a well-known landmark 
• Shopping at a local market

Create a lifelong relationship 

While foreign exchange programs last five or ten months, the experience and takeaways are lifelong for every participant. Often, host families and foreign exchange students remain connected far past their time living together. 

Some students even choose to visit their host families years later, or invite their host families to visit them in their home countries. 

Hosting for a foreign exchange student program creates an irreplaceable opportunity to form a new lifelong connection, one that you can share with your entire family. By the end of your hosting experience, it’s not uncommon to feel as if you’ve gained a new family member. 

Support a Young Student’s Dream to Travel 

While many students grow up dreaming of traveling the world, not all have the opportunity to make that dream a reality. By opening up your home to a foreign exchange student, you’re supporting a student’s ability to travel and experience a new country. 

In addition to the experience of traveling, living with a host family also allows foreign exchange students to gain confidence, independence, and skills that they can take with them throughout their lives.

By becoming a host family, you can support a young student’s dream to travel to America and discover the culture for the first time. Creating a safe and comfortable environment ensures that your foreign exchange student’s time in America feels like it’s spent with new members of their own family. 

Foreign exchange programs offer a variety of learning experiences for a student visiting the United States for the first time. Many host families are surprised to find what they learn from hosting a student.

What are foreign exchange students looking for in their study abroad experience? Here are ways students learn from their host families and their experience: 

• Experiencing a new culture
• Forming lifelong connections
• Deepening their cultural understanding
• Practicing a new language
• Learning about themselves
• Becoming part of a global community

Keep these seven points in mind as you prepare for a student’s arrival, and as you plan activities. During their academic year in America , the best host families will pay attention to their exchange student’s goals. Here are some questions to ask so that you can plan to provide an enriching experience for a foreign exchange student:

• Are there any American experiences you’d like to have during your time?
• Do you enjoy being outdoors?
• Are there any places you’d like to travel while in America?
• What activities do you like to engage in at home? Are there any activities you’d like to try?
• Are there any extracurricular classes you’d like to take?  
• What can we do to make you feel the most at home?

Keep an open line of communication with your student, without being overbearing or intrusive. Some students might take a little while to warm up, while others will jump into the experience with enthusiasm.

How Ayusa Can Help You Find the Right Foreign Exchange Student for Your Family 

Hosting is truly a gift. We're excited that you and your family are interested in hosting a student!.

At Ayusa , we’ve worked with the U.S. State Department since 1981 to develop the next generation of global leaders and world citizens.

By connecting international students with host families and high schools, we’ve connected foreign exchange students with high school exchange programs and host families.

How to Host a Foreign Exchange Student With AYUSA

Step 1: Indicate Your Interest

Fill out our short interest form to receive more information and get connected with your local Ayusa representative.

Step 2: Complete Your Application

Your Ayusa representative will help you complete the application and answer any questions you may have about the hosting experience. Your representative can also connect you with other host families in your community as you get ready for an unforgettable year!

Step 3: Choose Your Student

Once your application is approved, your Ayusa representative will work with you to find a student to match your family’s interests and activities.

Questions? Contact Us! We’re happy to help answer any questions you may have! You can reach us at 888.552.9872 or email us directly and we will respond promptly.

Continue reading

Can a Single Person Host a Foreign Exchange Student?: The Ultimate How-to Guide for Individual Hosts

The Benefits of American Exchange Programs for High Schools

Sharing cultures and building communities with high school exchange.

Hosting a Foreign Exchange Student: The Complete Guide

Every year, the United States welcomes foreign...

Mallory Graber

January 1, 2023.

Every year, the United States welcomes foreign exchange students from all over the world. The U.S hosts more international students a year than any other country and American families across the country are discovering the joys of hosting a foreign exchange student. If you are thinking about hosting a foreign exchange student or want to know how to get started, this complete guide will take you through every step of the way.

What Is a Foreign Exchange Student Program?

A foreign exchange student program helps high school or college students travel to a new country to live and study abroad. Exchange students study at a local high school or college, integrate into the American student lifestyle, and live with a host family in their home.

How long a foreign exchange student stays with a family depends on the study program they participate in. Length of stays can range from a week, a semester, or even an entire academic year. We will go into more detail on that later in this guide.  

Benefits of Hosting a Student

• Earn extra money by hosting an exchange student
• Ability to share your family’s way of life with someone new
• Make new lifelong memories
• Invest deeply in the life of a student and help them to grow and thrive
• Build a strong friendship with your student and grow your personal network by having a new friend in a foreign country

What are the Requirements to Host a Foreign Exchange Student?

Hosting a foreign exchange student is something almost any family can do. There is no traditional model of a host family, as they come in all different forms and backgrounds.

The most important thing is that you are able to provide a clean and safe environment for a foreign exchange student to adapt and thrive in their new surroundings. While hosting a student there are a few essentials that you are usually required to provide, to help them through their studies:

• A private bedroom with desk/study facilities
• Transportation to and from school
• 2-3 meals per day
• A laundry facility to use

A background criminal check is required for all adult family members within the household to ensure that all our host families meet general safety standards and our students are safe during their stay in America.

What Should I Consider Before Hosting a Foreign Exchange Student?

Deciding to host an exchange student is exciting, can bring lifelong memories, and comes with a few new responsibilities. To help you and your family get the most out of the experience we have compiled these key questions for you to consider beforehand:

How Long Do I Want to Host a Student?

As we mentioned earlier, the length of hosting an international student can vary greatly, from one week to an entire academic year. You should consider how much time you can and want to commit to hosting.

Which Type of Student do I Want to Host?

With StudentRoomStay Concierge, you can host a college exchange student or high school student. It’s worth considering your ideal age range for a student. There will be different levels of responsibility, student needs and expectations.

Is My Family Ready to Host an International Student?

It is important that all family members understand the potential changes involved with bringing an exchange student into the household. There may be modifications to the current family routine or schedule, which may require flexibility from everyone to accommodate the new addition, such as:

• After school activities/classes
• Transport to and from school
• Changes to housework
• Day trips/excursions
• Extra person in the morning (wake up, breakfast, bathroom use)

Is My Home Ready?

Your home is not required to be lavish or large, but you will need to have the space to for an extra person. Some of the essentials include:

• Bathroom space

Your house will need to be safe and inviting, and you should be willing to open up common areas such as your living room, kitchen and yard.

Do I Want a Male or Female Student?

Some families want to have the same gender as their own children, while others prefer to give their children a mixed-gender sibling experience. It is worth taking a moment to discuss and consider what gender you and your family would like to host.

Keeping these questions in mind will help you to plan out the exchange student experience your family is looking for. It will also help you prepare your home and schedule for an exchange student, giving them the smoothest transition into American life possible.

Additional Things to Consider Before you Host a Foreign Exchange Student

As you can see, preparing to be a host family is fairly straightforward.

To give you a clearer picture of what to expect, here are some potential challenges of hosting a foreign exchange student:

• Like with any relationship, host families and students have to put in the work to get through any rough patches.
• Students may fail to meet your expectations. Whether it’s in their personality, a failure to keep house rules, or their school performance. You may just have to be patient and provide positive guidance for their success.
• Hosting a student can require extra time and energy. Take into consideration they will need to be fed, transported, conversed with, and supported.

Any potential challenge can be worked through and overcome with patience, perseverance and support from StudentRoomStay representatives.

What Are the Different Types of Programs Available?

Before we get to how you can become a host family, when want to explain the different types of student programs available. When exchange students come over to the U.S there are two main types of programs they will be on, an ‘Exchange Program’ or ‘Study Abroad Program’. Both programs rely on host families opening up their homes for students, the main differences are:

• The type of visa that a student arrives on.
• A ‘study’ or ‘cultural’ exchange.  
• Getting paid to host a foreign exchange student.

Exchange Program

A student on an exchange program is usually on a J-1 visa. Their focus is to learn as much as they can about American life and culture. On these programs studying may not always be their sole priority, with the length of stay being anywhere from brief one-week camps to a maximum of 12 months. Families who host students on exchange programs do not get paid for hosting a student. These programs are great for shorter term arrangements where both the host and student are solely focused on the experiences and cultural exchange.

Study Abroad Program

A student on a study abroad program, is usually on a F-1 visa. Their focus is on their full time studies.

These students may not have as much time to focus on American culture outside of studying. They stay until their studies are finished, which can range from a single semester up to an entire 4 year course (with breaks between academic years). The majority of exchange students that come over the the U.S are on a study abroad program, which does allow a host family to get paid.

Hosting a student long term can incur extra costs through laundry, meals and general household living, which is why many programs offer an attractive monthly stipend. Many host families use this extra money towards bills, providing more financial flexibility, and residual income to enjoy.

It is worth considering that the difference in programs may affect a students perspective, what they hope to gain from their experience, and how they interact with their host families.

If you would like to find out more about the differences between J-1 and F-1 visas and programs, this guide by the NFHS provides more detailed information.

How to Become a Host Family for Foreign Exchange Students

Now that you have all the information needed to make the best choice for you and your family, we are now going to guide you through how you can become a host family yourself. As you start the hosting process, it’s important to take some time to research the different hosting agencies in your region (we have a list of the key things to look out for in the section below).

Once you have found an agency you are happy with, you will begin the application process. This will vary between companies, most will (and should) have a multi-layered application process, which will include:

• Basic information about your family and home
• Background checks
• Home visits

Our application process at StudentRoomStay is as thorough, painless, and quick as possible for our new host families. The initial application takes only 10-15 minutes to complete. Once we have checked it, a member of our team will contact you for a few further questions.

We will then contact your references and run our initial background checks. Once everything has returned without any problems we will organize a home visit. This is just to ensure all of the information provided throughout the application is accurate, and your home is safe and inviting for an international student.

After successfully completing the process you will be ready for us to find a foreign exchange student that is a match for you. The demand for host families tends to be seasonal with Summer and late Fall having the highest demands. If you are not matched with a student right away don’t worry, we keep a pool of qualified host families ready for the next wave of homestay demands.

What Should I Look for in a Host Family Program?

The international exchange student industry has exploded in recent years, with more and more agencies popping up to take advantage of the demand for study abroad experiences in the U.S.

Unfortunately, there are a number of agencies out there who are not operating at optimal levels to support you in your hosting journey. In these situations, the experience for both the student and your family can be jeopardized.

To avoid finding yourself in a difficult or uncomfortable situation, we have prepared six questions you can ask any hosting agency before signing up:

1. Is the Agency CSIET Certified?

The Council on Standards for International Educational Travel (CSIET), is a non-profit watchdog organization. It is their mission to provide leadership and support for exchange students and educational communities across the United States. They aim to ensure that all students are provided with safe and enriching international experiences. If a company is CSIET certified, it can provide you with peace of mind that they are adhering to the highest standards in all areas.

StudentRoomStay is proud to be fully listed on CSIET, for all our homestay services, as we are committed to providing an enriching experience for all our students and host families.

2. How Does the Stipend Work?

It will be important to know how much the stipend is and when it is paid. You may also want to ask if the company has a host family reference that can vouch for the stipend payments. 

3. What Safety Protocols are in Place?

You will want to ensure that things such as, a students insurance, background checks, student visas and other safety protocols are in place.

4. What Kind of Training and Support will I Receive?

If you are a first time host, training and support will be crucial. You will want to know that your chosen company has representatives on hand should any issues arise.

Take into consideration how helpful they are to begin with, how long they take to get back to your questions, and how responsive they are in their answers.

It is worth noting that ongoing support is equally (if not more) important as initial training.

6. What are Your Feedback Requirements?

Most companies will require some form of reporting so it is important to ask what these requirements will be and how much of your time they will require.

At StudentRoomStay Concierge we require our host families to provide monthly reports that include photos and general information about the student’s progress. We also ask for any accomplishments or challenges that arose the previous month.

While detailed, these reports only take about 15 minutes to complete.

Tips for an Exceptional Hosting Experience

Here are some important tips with you to help your hosting experience be as smooth as possible. Hosting an international student can be broken down into three stages:

Step 1: Before Your Student Arrives

• Have all your due diligence in place when it comes to paperwork, contracts and training. It can seem like a lot of work at times, but it is crucial to ensuring yours and your student’s safety.
• Prepare your student’s room. A good practice is to put yourself in their shoes. Imagine what kind of room you would like as a young person, traveling thousands of miles to come live in a new country. Aim to create a clean, inviting, and homey space for them.
• Familiarize yourself with their school schedule and calendar. Students may be very overwhelmed at the beginning. You can help them understand what to expect and guide them along the way.

Step 2: When Your Student Arrives

• Give your student a tour of the house. Make them feel at home by showing them more than their bedroom and the bathroom. They may be unfamiliar with how your appliances work and need help with small details, like where toilet paper or clean towels are.
• Set your foreign exchange student rules and expectations. As with all young people, your student may not keep to all your rules perfectly. Setting expectations from the beginning helps and can be a conversation to re-visit in the future if required
• Encourage your student to speak. Helping your student speak English could help them feel more confident and involved, as they adapt to their new surroundings.
• Be flexible with meals. Your student may need some time to adjust to different types of food. Be patient with them if needed, as they will be dealing with multiple cultural differences. It may take time at first for them to adjust to a new diet and the types of food your family eats.
• Let them rest. You may be excited to take your student sightseeing to all your favorite places or introduce them to your friends. Try to take it easy in the beginning as they may be jet lagged and overwhelmed by all their new surroundings. Give them time to rest and get settled.

Step 3: Once Your Student has Settled in

• Stay engaged. Some students will be talkative and eager to join you and your family in whatever you do. Some students will be far less outgoing, so, do your best to stay involved in their school and home life, while still respecting their need for space. Keep inviting them to join your family outings, they may just need time to warm up to your family.
• Recognize that cultural differences matter. Different cultures express things like disagreements or requests in different ways. Remember that there may be different communication styles in play. Also be sensitive to the fact that your student might be too embarrassed or intimidated to share what they really think.
• Reach out if you need help. StudentRoomStay offers 24/7 emergency support anytime you need to speak to one of our representatives. Stay connected with your student’s school, and help your student contact teachers or tutors if they need extra help. If possible connect with other host families in your area, they may have some great suggestions from their previous experiences.
• Exercise patience and perseverance. No matter how great a student or a host family is, challenges are always likely to arise. When miscommunications arise you can help get all of you through it by being patient, and continuing to work at the relationship so that things keep moving forward.

Just Looking to Rent a Room to Students?

If hosting a student is too time-consuming, but you have a spare room you can also rent your room to a student and make an extra income. 

We understand that although hosting a student full-time is extremely rewarding, it is not always viable. If you have a room (or two) spare in your home, you can rent the room out to students, without having the obligations of being a host family, as they would be more like a tennant.

If you are interested in listing your room get in touch with us to today and we'll get you started on the way. 

Become a Host Family With StudentRoomStay

We hope you have enjoyed our guide and found our information helpful. Deciding to become a host family for an exchange student can be one of the most rewarding decisions you make, and we want to be there for every step of the way. At StudentRoomStay, we offer a comprehensive and supportive homestay service that finds host families for thousands of international students.

We have built our reputation as one of the nation's leading homestay service providers thanks to our industry-leading training and support system. Our homestay services are fully CSIET credited, we are committed to safety, excellence, and integrity. Perhaps most importantly, our team is 100% committed to supporting you.

When you choose to host through us, you are getting one of the best services along with one of the most attractive payment rates in the country. We are here to support every step of your hosting journey and look forward to getting started with you, simply fill in our quick form and a member of our team will get in touch with you.

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An Exchange Student at 17

It almost feels like as if it was just yesterday when I was on my own on a plane not really knowing what to expect but excited for what the future had for me. Now I'm back home with a ton of memories, e-mails to answer, and a lot of stories to share. I don't even know where to start now that I'm writing about my experience of being an exchange student in Appleton, Wisconsin for a whole school year.

Well, I've wanted to be an exchange student my whole high school life. I read about summer programs in a brochure from IFS, and I thought then that living somewhere else for a while and having friends from another country would be the coolest thing in the world. I would be on my own, have my own Indiana Jones adventure, and fulfill my dream of having something different. Pretty soon, at the end of my senior year, Mama and I were applying to IFS and we decided that a whole year would give me so much more immersion and would make the experience so much better. I had meetings in the weekends about rules, how to survive, homesickness, etc. Then I got an email. I had a host family! Next thing I knew, I had a flight booked.

I was so excited and happy and I was telling all my friends about it. I was researching about Wisconsin in books and in the Internet. Compared to what I saw on TV and what I experienced when I traveled to places like Los Angeles, California with my family, Wisconsin was different. It was more of farmland and countryside. I lived in Appleton and its population was around 70,000 and I thought it was a small town compared to our Manila. There was no traffic, they only had one major mall, and everything was in close proximity. I didn't even know what to think of the cold weather. I just brought cotton long-sleeved shirts with me. But when winter came, I needed to get a coat. During the winter, the sun would set at 4pm and it wouldn't go up until around 9. There were days when the temperature would go below freezing and I was wearing around 6 layers of clothing just to keep myself warm. I never even blow-dried my hair before. I had to do it every morning after I took a shower because if I didn't, my hair would FREEZE. The thing I liked best about the cold and the snow was being able to ski. People were so excited for me and telling me all their snow stories (since we don't have it in the Philippines). I have never skied in my life either, so I was excited and proud to learn.

I was placed with the greatest host family in the whole world. They treated me like their own and they are like real family in another part of the world. I had a host mom, a host dad, a brother and sister. Ben would always be sweet and give me hugs and kisses. I loved every minute of it because I never had a younger brother before. It was fun seeing Katie grow up since she started to be a teenager and we would always tell stories in the bathroom we shared. Through e-mails we established that I was going to call them Mom and Dad since I was never used to calling older people by their first names. I felt super loved. They made sure there was tuna in the pantry (since it was my favorite), hugged me when I needed to be hugged, let me stay out late at night with my friends, and even let me have parties in the basement.

I went to an American co-ed public high school and that was a big adjustment coming from an all-girl private Catholic school. The school was new, everyone was different and it was so diverse. I have never met so many kinds of people in just one place. I was scared during the first day of school. I didn't know anyone, I got lost since the school was huge, and people didn't think I knew how to speak in English every time my teachers would say, And here's Elaine she's a foreign exchange student. But pretty soon I started to get comfortable. It was funny how people always got surprised by how good I was at speaking in English. They're like, Wow, you even speak better English than me. I loved answering people's questions like, So, what do you do in the winter? or Where is the Philippines? Isn't that near South America somewhere? or What's it like to have a coconut tree outside your house do you have coconuts everyday? I had the chance to take fun classes like Spanish, photography, and art so I met people with similar interests as me and got to go to field trips. My favorite was going to Chicago to see my favorite painting Starry Night by Van Gogh. I was an honorary member of the International Club and there was even one time I was giving a talk about the Philippines for the school's Global Awareness Week and someone asked me to say something in Filipino. So I said, Magandang Umaga, ang pangalan ko ay Elaine. They thought it was so cool and people started clapping and giving me a standing ovation. Just for saying my name in Tagalog!!!

I made a lot of friends and met so many people. I joined a church youth group, volunteered for a group for teens with cognitive disabilities, an indoor soccer team during winter and the girls track team during spring. Friends took me out to movies, hockey games, restaurants, road trips, rock shows and concerts. Someone even took me to see the Incubus concert! I got to do my first American prank, which was writing on boys cars with lipstick. Everyone was warm, open, and never hesitant in giving hugs. I would say that as much as I missed my family and friends at home, I never really got homesick because I had friends who made sure I was okay. They were all always there for me and helping me with all the adjustments I had to make, like school, getting rides, hanging out, shopping, going to prom, learning slang terms, everything. I will forever remember all the fun times I had with them.

One of the things I had to get used to and eventually enjoyed was how people picked up on my difference. Girls would always tell me how lucky I was to have a year-round tan and ask if I went to tanning salons! I haven't even heard of tanning salons since I got there! Some boys would ask me how I got my hair to be so black. I was shy and surprised by how forward some guys were. Unlike here, guys do not court girls. It's more casual. Eventually, though I got used to it. I realized that guys all over the world are the same. I became excited to be actually hanging out with all these cute boys, getting calls, and going out. Hugging with someone from the opposite sex wasn't even a big deal, and it was something I enjoyed. Going out opened my eyes to more similarities and differences in the American culture. It was one of the times I was so proud of being Filipina. I was different, exotic, and new.

Every month, I met with other exchange students in our area. I made friends with people from Germany, Brazil, the Netherlands, England , Hungary, etc. It was fun when we were together because we saw how language, skin color or height didn't matter. We were all the same. We even got to bond right away because we were all going through the same thing as exchange students so we talked about the differences at home, school, and out countries. I learned so many things about other cultures, and even got to share my own. I remember cooking the adobo for a Christmas party. I was stressed about it but everyone loved it!

Being away for 10 months and living alone in a completely different world has taught me a lot of things. I have grown and my perspective has changed in ways I never would have imagined. I now can say that I am independent, appreciate my family and friends here more, open to new ideas, aggressive, and more confident about myself. Having my own adventure has proven to me that anything is possible and that I can do anything. It was the best time of my life and I will always remember how choosing to go out and discover what the world has in store for me was life-changing and will be something I will always cherish.

Article provided by Exchange Student News

By Elaine Abonal

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• High School

How Do I Become a Foreign Exchange Student in High School?

Eric Jamarr is a study abroad veteran, having studied in both Finland and South Africa. He has ne...

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Being a foreign exchange student will enhance your life for years to come as you broaden your outlook and learn more about other cultures. Learning how to become a foreign exchange student is the first stop on your journey.

The world is your classroom when you decide to become a foreign exchange student in high school.

A single year abroad can teach you more than you may think. It can teach you how to communicate in a different language and how to navigate in a different culture while building awareness of world issues and international networking. Our world is more connected than ever before, which requires people to become more aware of different ways of living. Being an exchange student does just that.

Not to mention, studying abroad in high school teaches you responsibility and tolerance. If you’re truly interested in foreign exchange, then perhaps you've asked yourself: How do I become a foreign exchange student?

What is a foreign exchange student?

A foreign exchange student is a student who goes abroad to a different country to live and study as part of an exchange program. Don’t take the word “exchange” literally, though. You don’t always need a literal one-for-one exchange with another student. As part of your course of study, you might simply enroll in classes at a local university or high school .

Most exchange programs encourage students to enrich their experiences by volunteering or participating in extracurricular activities such as sports, dance classes, exercise groups, or whatever tickles your fancy. When you become a foreign exchange student, you will have the opportunity to learn about yourself and discover a new culture while enhancing your education and meeting new friends from all over the world.

How old do you have to be to be a foreign exchange student?

Technically, there is no age requirement to become a foreign exchange student. Generally speaking, many foreign exchange programs are for middle and high school students age 13 years or older. Although the most popular study abroad programs tend to be for university-aged students, there is no law that says it’s impossible to get a head start while you are younger.

You can study abroad on high school exchange or language schools abroad while you are still a teenager . Eager for even more time abroad? You can also become a foreign exchange student at colleges and universities after you have graduated from high school.

How to become a foreign exchange student in high school

Become a foreign exchange student and trade at-home study sessions for immersive learning.

Before you book your exchange program, there are some key things to consider. While your exchange provider will likely organize the logistical details, it all starts with you.

1. Do your research!

The most reliable way to become a foreign exchange student is to find the right program provider. A program provider will orchestrate your exchange and advise you on types of exchanges and picking a destination.

However, it's up to you to do your research and choose your program provider wisely. Consider several programs and be prepared to apply at least four months in advance.

2. Consider why you want to be an exchange student

It’s a good idea to set your intention before making the leap to apply and embark on your journey. Study abroad is not for everyone and foreign exchange programs aren't exactly cheap.

It may sound like a no-brainer, but choose a country that you feel you’d like to visit. You’ll want to make an informed decision and carefully consider why you want to study abroad . Ask yourself what you would like to do during the exchange and what you would like to take away from the experience, even making a list of pros and cons prior to making your final decision.

3. Pick a destination that is suitable for you

The destination you choose will not only impact the price, but it can also dictate the type of experience you can have. Try to choose a destination that’s suitable for your interests and needs.

Your grades should be steady as most candidates in high school that study abroad have at least a 2.5 GPA. It's a good idea to choose a program that aligns with the discipline that you would like to study. Keep in mind that typically, the further you travel, the more expensive the program will be overall.

4. Decide on the duration of your exchange

Exchange programs with included excursions can help you make friends and adjust to life abroad.

Keep in mind that when you’re far from your loved ones, culture shock can be that much more intense . Living abroad is a challenge. You’ll have an adjustment period that can be difficult to prepare for in advance.

That’s not stated to deter you from studying abroad, rather to provide a reality check. You’ll most certainly have challenges, especially at the beginning. The longer you stay, the more fulfilling your experience can be (though longer programs abroad do also tend to cost more).

If you choose a structured program with activities and excursions included, you're more likely to get the most out of your experience—no matter how long you decide to stay.

5. Apply and consider the costs

As mentioned earlier, exchange programs can be quite expensive, so make a budget and have funds set aside in the case of unexpected costs. Opting to work part-time or applying for scholarships can help cut costs. Factor in the cost of your transportation and travel to your host country.

Many exchange programs will pair you with a host family. Include living expenses such as food, school material, and local transportation in your budget. In addition, many programs will require you to purchase some sort of health insurance, which can also be expensive. Students who study with exchange programs should also allot a few hundred dollars per week depending on the location and cost of living.

If you are unsure of how to apply for an exchange student program , you may want to ask a school counselor or principal for support. As you apply for your program, make sure to read carefully and include all supporting documents. You may also need to apply for a passport if you do not already have one.

3 exchange programs to get you started

1. Nacel International: High School Exchange in Chile (14 to 18 Years Old)

• Nacel International offers students the chance to live with a host family and help the environment at the same time. Study at a private high school that has its own INBio (Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad) park! Transplant trees, work in the butterfly farm, and collect and prepare seeds. Note that this program is only available to high school students who have at least two years’ of Spanish language classes.
• Read Nacel International reviews

2. AFS Intercultural Programs: High School Abroad in Italy

• By going to a local school, you can immerse yourself in a Romance language and possibly become fluent. AFS will prepare you to live with a host family , which will provide your home away from home. With other international AFS exchange students participating as well, you are sure to make connections from all over the world and memories you'll never forget.
• Read AFS-USA reviews

3. Go Abroad China: Learn Chinese in China with GAC

• Struggling with Mandarin? Go Abroad China offers immersive language classes. Students have opportunities to practice and reinforce what they have learned in the classroom . Some activities include weekend tours, language exchanges that include conversation with native speakers, cultural activities, and networking events. Students will live with a host family and get a tutor for extra language support. You’ll also have the option to participate in small group programs or more intimate one-on-one programs.
• Read Go Abroad China Ltd. reviews

Talk to our FREE Online Advisor and get matched with 5 high school exchange programs

As an exchange student, you’ll see the world in a unique way.

You’ll make friendships that last a lifetime as a high school foreign exchange student.

Moving abroad is no walk in the park, but the move brings growth and perspective. You need to be very flexible and adjustable.

If you decide to become a foreign exchange student in high school , you will definitely leave your comfort zone. Not only will you gain independence, but you could improve your language skills and return home with a completely new perspective on what it means to be a global citizen.

Explore ALL High School Student Exchange Programs on GoAbroad.com!

Explore High School Programs on GoAbroad.com

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Student exchange programs

Go on a student exchange program abroad and open yourself to a world of opportunity. Our foreign exchange programs range from year-long exchanges to a full college program, including your diploma, at one of our accredited schools. Becoming a foreign exchange student is a big decision. Get in touch so we can discuss your options.

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Why foreign exchange programs

Enrolling in a foreign exchange program is an eye-opening experience. Many students do not go abroad until later, so you'll be getting an educational head start. Our student exchange programs are varied in length and objective. If you would like to become fluent as quickly as possible, consider taking a more intensive option for your student exchange program.

On the other hand, if your looking to embrace the nightlife and view historic monuments, consider a more cultural exchange when looking into a foreign exchange program.

Foreign exchange programs for ambitious students

Whether you want to prepare for an international career or degree, gain admission to university, or learn a new foreign language - you came to the right place.

Our foreign exchange programs range from year-long courses to semester and summer exchange programs, so there's something for everyone who want to become a foreign exchange student. With EF you have the opportunity to choose the program that best suits your schedule, age and individual needs.

Foreign exchange programs for high school students

EF offers foreign exchange programs for high school students aged between 16 and 19 years. During your EF Language Programs abroad, you'll discover a new culture and meet new friends from all over the world. There are plenty of leisure activities, so you'll also have lots of fun outside the classroom.

Foreign exchange programs for college students

For students who are ambitious and know what they want in life, EF offers foreign exchange programs for college students. Accelerate your foreign language skills, prepare for an exam or gain admission to prestigious university abroad with our EF University Foundation Year.

Foreign exchange programs for young adults

EF also offers foreign exchange programs for adults. Nowadays, companies are looking for candidates with international study or work experience and interpersonal skills. A student exchange program for young adults is the ideal solution to significantly improve your career prospects, for instance, by taking an EF Gap Year.

A student exchange accelerates your language skills

A student exchange program is the best way to become proficient at speaking a language. Perfecting your foreign language skills during your studies is a major asset to your future studies and career. Going abroad as a foreign exchange student will give you a big leg up, whatever your future goals.

Not only will your language skills improve, but you'll gain in independence and come home with an entirely new perspective on what it means to be a citizen of the world. Whichever foreign exchange student program you choose, you can be certain that you won't soon forget all that you've learned while studying in a foreign country.

Frequently asked questions

How to become a foreign exchange student.

The easiest way to to become a foreign exchange student is to use an exchange provider. An exchange provider can advise you on picking a destination, duration, and exchange type. Once you’ve booked your exchange, they’ll find you a host family and organize all the logistical details. Using an exchange provider is simple because they provide a full service, from start to finish. We’ve been organizing foreign exchange programs since 1965 and we’ve seen just about everything.

Key considerations for your exchange:

• Where to go – Destination impacts language and price, but it determines so much more as well. Pick a destination that’s suitable for your age and the types of activities you want to do.
• How long to stay – The most challenging part of an exchange is the beginning. It’s hard to settle in, even more so if it’s your first exchange. You’ll get more out of the experience the longer you stay, so consider duration carefully before making a decision.
• What to do – When you’re a long way from friends and family, the days can drag by. Choose an exchange with built-in structure (language classes, a sport, etc.) to keep boredom at bay.

What accommodation options are available while I'm on student exchange?

When you become a foreign exchange student , you have a few options when it comes to accommodation.

Host family : Lots of families are looking to host an exchange student. Feel at home by choosing to stay in our carefully selected EF Homestay, where you can immerse yourself in the culture by living amongst locals in a private home.

Student residence : If you prefer to live amongst your classmates, consider living in a residence during your summer student exchange program. Our residences are comfortable, secure and conveniently located close to the city center.

Campus : Stay on-site, just steps away from your classes. You'll experience a vibrant campus life while living alongside college students from over 100 countries. Enjoy the cafetaria, student lounge, sports facilities and more.

Apartments : Young adults in particular prefer more independence when going on student exchange. For this reason we offer single or double rooms in our selected apartments.

Hotels : Optionally, course participants who want to enjoy comfort, privacy and all-round service on a exchange can also book one of our partner hotels as an accommodation option.

How old do I have to be to go on a student exchange?

The age limit is 14 years for our international boarding schools. We also offer foreign exchange programs for college students and young adults. Exchange students are usually between 16-24 years old.

How much does a foreign exchange program cost?

You can expect to pay about $600 per week for an exchange program . Add to that the cost of your travel, which can be equal to the cost of the exchange itself, your visa expenses (if any), and insurance.

The factors that affect the cost of your student exchange most are:

• Destination – Long distance travel is more expensive, but some destinations are also pricier than others. Popular destinations like Tokyo and Seoul are usually more expensive than less well-known destinations. Malta is one of the cheapest.
• Duration – Total cost rises the longer your exchange program lasts, but cost per week drops. Six and nine-month exchanges have a significantly lower cost per week than short-term exchanges.
• Exchange program type and intensity – Specialized language courses and intensive courses are more expensive than general courses and holiday courses. Exchange programs without courses usually aren’t much cheaper than those with courses because they organize sightseeing and activities, and those also must be paid for.

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• Summer foreign exchange programs

7 Reasons to Host an Exchange Student

Each year, International Student Exchange unites exchange students from all over the world with volunteer host families. While in the U.S., exchange students experience a new culture, enhance their language skills, make lasting relationships, and ultimately return to their home countries with a positive impression of life in the U.S.A.

Their host families make international diplomacy a personal affair. By accepting an exchange student into their lives, they often find that their families, schools, and communities are enriched in ways they may not have anticipated. If you are thinking about hosting an exchange student, consider these added benefits below:

Encourage connection in your home, community, and the wider world

Student exchange programs such as ours were created after the world wars in an effort to prevent them from recurring. ISE believes that the connections built through an exchange can create a more peaceful global community. In order to understand one another, we have to open up and share our daily lives. By hosting an exchange student from another part of the world, you promote friendship, understanding, and cooperation. These exchanges allow us to better understand our differences and appreciate our similarities. This is one of the most important lessons we can learn and teach through cultural exchange.

Broaden your Horizons  

Ever wanted to travel to a faraway place? Speak to the people there…hear their language…learn their culture? By hosting a student, you are able to do it all without the expense of travel. You can bring the world to your family and community – and experience all the excitement that comes along with it. You’ll try new foods, learn new words, see new places, and create lifelong relationships with people you otherwise might never have crossed paths with.

Liven up your daily routine

When hosting an exchange student, everyday occurrences that you may take for granted suddenly take on a new life. Restaurants, movie nights, shopping tips, even housework become adventures when experienced through the eyes of your new family member. Experiencing your daily life from this fresh perspective can bring new energy and excitement.

Enhance your Communication skills

There is no better way to learn a new language than to practice with a native speaker, however communication goes far deeper than that. When you host an exchange student, you learn how build relationships with those who are different with you. By learning to relate to those who may have had an upbringing that varies greatly from your own, your ability to connect, communicate, and collaborate with others is greatly enhanced.

Develop Understanding

One of the most valuable lessons learned when you host an exchange student is that we have far more in common than we realize. By allowing a student from another culture into your daily routine, you cultivate a deep appreciation for the fact that despite living thousands of miles apart, speaking different languages, following different sports, and entertaining ourselves in different ways we are – at our core – very much alike and capable of building genuine, meaningful relationships withone another.

Cultivate life-long friendships

The greatest by-product of cultural exchange is the web of lifelong friends that spans the globe. Students regularly keep in touch with their host families years after their program ends and it’s not uncommon for host families to travel to their student’s home country to visit, experience their culture firsthand, and meet their families. By welcoming a student into your home, you open the door to an exciting new world of relationships and experiences.

Know You’re Doing a Good Deed for your Family, Community, and World  

Consider for a moment what it would be like to send your own child thousands of miles from home to a country where no one speaks his or her language and where they might do things quite differently than you’re used to. Now think of the family you hope would welcome them during their stay. If you host an exchange student, you know that one student is in good hands and is in a position to leave with a positive impression of your country.

By hosting, you do the student and his or her family a huge favor. You are giving them the gift of experiencing a new culture and way of life while feeling safe, supported, and a part of a family. You would probably hope someone would do the same for you and your child in a similar situation. We believe that the leaders of tomorrow are the children of today and that we can all play a part in raising them to be strong, curious, and kind individuals

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Global friendship starts with local action. Volunteer to host a student today!

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8 tips for hosting an exchange student.

Each year, students from all over the world come to the United States to learn English and experience our unique culture. Hosting one of these students in your home is an incredible opportunity for your family. My parents hosted six students for a year each, as well as countless short-term stints with summer programs from Japan. I've got brothers and sisters around the world now.

My parents pictured with five of the six students we hosted. The five joined my family on a cruise one year, most of them meeting each other for the first time on that trip. The students pictured are from Switzerland, Norway, Norway, Turkey and Quebec. Missing is one boy from Sweden.

I've been on the hosting side and the hosted side, so here are some tips to make the most of your hosting experience:

1. As a host parent, be more than an innkeeper.

My parents made it a point to welcome each student in our house as if they'd gained another child. My mom worried when one was homesick, my dad was on the sideline at their games. They let the students know they couild call them Mom and Dad only if they were comfortable with it. The boys were more inclined to call my parents Mom and Dad; the girls stuck with first names. No one was wrong.

Of course, it's a little different with college students. From experience, I lived with a Costa Rican mom during my junior year of college, and she treated me as her own - even sending me off to college classes with lunch each day. She kept tabs on where I was going each night, and she knew my friends. Others on the same program said they felt more like boarders; they had the luxury to come and go as they pleased, but they didn't have a connection with their families.

2. Expect siblings to be, well, siblings.

As a host sister, I had different relationships with the students as I matured. Like real siblings, I bonded much easier to some than others. I had jealousy issues with some, while I put others on a pedestal. Expect the kids in the household to have very strong, very real feelings about your exchange student. They're not all going to be BFFs.

There were fights in our house, especially when there were three teenage girls sharing a bathroom. No matter the arguments, over the course of a year, my sister and I always grew close to our exchange students.

My family hosted three exchange girls over the years and they were all very different and special in their own ways. We all got to hang out on a family vacation years after they lived with us. Pictured are my sister, Kelly, Catherine from Norway, Cat from Quebec, me, and Christin from Norway.

More than a decade later, some of those same foreign sisters that we fought with were bridesmaids in our weddings.

My brothers were married and out of the house before our first student arrived, so it was a different experience for them.

My nephews and nieces grew up with many foreign "aunts" and "uncles," including Martin, pictured here with my nephew, Jon.

3. Set ground rules.

At the very beginning, go over basic rules of the house. Not because the student is likely to be a wild child, but because there is a lot of new things being thrown at him or her, and it helps just to not have to guess how things are done. I'm talking rules like "We eat dinner together every night," "You're sharing a bathroom with two other people, so please limit your showers to less than 10 minutes." After your student has settled in, go over curfew rules and expectations.

If you're hosting a college student, and even some high school students, understand that there could be push back from youth accustomed to independence. My parents dealt with it when we hosted our first student, an 18-year-old from Norway. They had to call the local program director for help. (And just to show you there were no hard feelings, my parents attended my Norwegian sister's wedding a few years ago).

4. Help with homesickness.

It's pretty much inevitable: The student you host will miss home. It's nothing against you and your hospitality. There's no place like home. There are a few things I've seen help with homesickness. A quick fix is food. We hosted a few Japanese teens for two weeks a few summers, and a trip to an Asian food market helped battle homesickness. They bought familiar snacks and even asked to prepare a dinner for us, so we could try some of their favorite dishes.

Help your student find options to stay in touch with home that aren't as immediate as email, FaceTime, and a phone call. From experience, it doesn't really help. It made me miss everyone even more.

Suggest journaling or scrapbooking if he or she doesn't do it already.

The best cure was to have a social network of my own, beyond my host sibling's. Once friendships formed, I started to feel like I belonged. It takes time. Just let your student know, it takes time.

5. Give him or her space.

If you can swing it, it's great if your exchange student can have his or her own room, a place where he or she can retreat, regroup, and recharge. That's impossible for some households. Believe me, I know! I spent a year in Spain and my bed was a trundle that I had to pull out from under my host sister's bed each night. I hated it, actually; it felt temporary...but I also knew there was nowhere else to put me in their apartment. That's life. If that's the case in your home, don't let that be an excuse for not hosting. Kids share rooms all the time. If you have a quiet space in your house, be sure to let your exchange student know it's open to him or her.

In Spain, my quiet space had to be outdoors - I often headed for a nearby park when I just needed some quiet. Don't take it personally if the student you're hosting needs to retreat often, or asks for time alone. Some days are overwhelming even for the most outgoing, adjusted teen.

6. Show an interest in their interests and friends.

This is so critical to bonding with your exchange student, knowing that their interests are important to them so you should make them important to you. It goes back to welcoming this person into your family, so treat him or her as you'd treat your own child.

7. Learn about their culture.

Some students are going to be eager to tell you about their home country, their customs, their traditions, their foods. Others aren't an open book, but it doesn't mean they don't want to talk about it. Ask questions. Ask if they'd like to cook or meal or teach you how to prepare something. Ask how to say something in their native language.

To this day, I remember how to say "I am Santa Claus, and my name is Kim," in Norwegian. I have no idea why I wanted to say that (the inner-workings of a 13-year-old...).

8. That matter of travel.

Not every host family travels much with their students, but if you have the means, plan something special. You don't have to plan an extensive trip and you don't have to go far, but please consider it. If you live in a small town, venture to a nearby city. If you live in a city, show your student what small town USA is like. Let them see many sides of America.

My family took our Swiss student, Simon, up to Minnesota during his year with us. What's more American than Mall of America?

My parents were not the norm in all the traveling they did with our exchange students, but it sure created lasting memories.

Cat, our student from Quebec, dreamed of going to Disneyland, so it was fun going with her the year she lived with our family.

I wanted that experience in Spain; I wanted to see the stuff out of travel magazines. I didn't get what I had hoped for (beaches, flamenco dancers, running of the bulls), but I got something better - a local perspective. My host family took me to their vacation home by the sea; my history class took a trip to Roman ruins; my best friend's family took me around the Basque Country on a whirlwind culinary tour; and my exchange program had planned trips for us. Each venture outside of my day to day life broadened my view of the diverse country.

I look forward to hosting an exchange student when my kids are little older. It was an immeasurable experience for me growing up.

Kim Reiner is the PR coordinator of a nonprofit in Omaha, Neb., and a mother of two beautiful kids. She's spent more than 2 years abroad, studying in Spain, Mexico, Costa Rica and Belgium. She dreams of traveling the world, but until then, she writes at OhMyOmaha.com , a parent's guide to her hometown.

All photos courtesy and copyright Kim Reiner

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Columbia University Incoming Exchange

The Center for Undergraduate Global Engagement (UGE) is committed to supporting Incoming Exchange Students from our partner institutions around the world. On this page, you will find information about our application requirements, offered programs, and information during your stay.

Columbia University Morningside Campus About Columbia University

Columbia University is one of the United States' leading universities and centers of undergraduate and graduate education. From classes with Nobel Laureates to numerous student societies, from the bustling energy of Manhattan to the diverse, local charms of the Morningside campus, Columbia has something to offer everyone. We hope that you are excited about joining the Columbia community in the city of New York, and we look forward to working with you.

Please visit the About Columbia University , Columbia College Bulletin or the Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) Bulletin pages for more information.

Partner Institutions

Columbia University's Incoming Exchange program is conducted by reciprocal exchange agreements with our select partner institutions . You may only apply to our Incoming Exchange program if your university is a partner institution and provides us with an explicit endorsement/nomination.

If your university is not a partner institution, but you would still like the opportunity to study at Columbia, please visit the Columbia Visiting Students program for more information.

Application Requirements

After being nominated by your university's outgoing, exchange, or study abroad adviser, Incoming Exchange Students must submit all of the application materials by the stated deadline in order to be considered for the program.

The application deadline for the Fall Term + Academic Year will be March 1st. The application deadline for the Spring Term will be October 1st .

Notification about acceptance will be made for the Fall Term + Academic Year around April 1st and for the Spring Term around November 1st .

A complete application includes the following components listed below:

UGE Exchange Application

In the UGE Portal, you will be asked to complete a series of short-answer questions about your current studies and academic interests at Columbia. Please review the items below:

• Current Studies - You will be asked to describe your current studies, such as your institution, department, degree, and year in your program (class standing).
• Universities Attended - You will be asked to include the name of any university you have attended, including your current program, the city and country of the program and your dates of attendance.
• English Proficiency - To be considered for admission to Columbia, you must be comfortable with rapid and idiomatic spoken English. If your home language is not English and your primary language of instruction has not been in English for at least five years, you are required to submit an English Proficiency Test. Please view the "English Proficiency Test" tab for more information.
• Disciplinary Action - You will be asked to answer if you have ever been suspended, placed on probation or had any disciplinary action taken against you. If yes, you will be asked to explain.
• Personal Statement - You will be asked to upload in Word (.doc or .docx) or .PDF format a one-page essay summarizing your academic career to date and detailing your plans for your proposed time at Columbia. Please include whether you would like to undertake formal coursework or include your research proposal if applicable.
• Proposed Course of Study - As an exchange student, you will be registered for a full-time non-degree program and will be able to register for a variety of courses at Columbia College or at the Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) . Please view the "Academic" tab on this page for more information about how to locate courses that might be of interest to you.

English Proficiency Test

To be considered for admission as an Incoming Exchange Student, you must be comfortable with rapid and idiomatic spoken English. There are several different ways to demonstrate that you are proficient in English on your application.

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) - A minimum score of 105 (Internet-based test) is necessary. In response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, we accept the TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition.
• IELTS (International English Language Testing System) - A minimum score of 7.5 is necessary. In response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, we accept the IELTS Indicator.
• DET (Duolingo English Test) - A minimum score of 135 is necessary.
• Cambridge English Qualifications - A minimum score of 191 on the current C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency Cambridge English Exams is necessary.
• Your home language is English - Even if you are a native English speaker, please mark "N/A" in the UGE Portal Questionaire.

Recommendation Letter

You must submit one (1) recommendation letter in the UGE Portal. The most effective recommendation will come from someone (mentor, professor, etc.) who knows you well, can speak to your character on a personal level, and share their evaluations of your academic performance.

Official Transcript

You will need to request that your outgoing, exchange, or study abroad adviser send via post-mail or email a copy of your Offical Transcript to our office, the Center for Undergraduate Global Engagement.

Nomination Form

We ask you to download and bring the Nomination Form to your outgoing, exchange, or study abroad adviser to complete on your behalf. A candid and considered remark from your adviser will be of great help to the Committee on Admissions in its evaluation of your nomination.

Accepted Students

After being accepted to Columbia University as an Incoming Exchange Student, we will share information and email communications regarding move-in options, dates, and additional steps to complete. We understand that moving to a new city is very exciting — and can also be confusing and exhausting! During your stay, you will have access to a wide variety of Columbia resources and supportive services.

Student Visas

You will need a student visa to study at Columbia and reside in the United States. You should plan on applying for an F-1 student visa immediately after acceptance as an Incoming Exchange Student. You can find instructions and the online application for getting your I-20 (F-1 status) on Columbia's International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) page.

You must submit all required paperwork directly to ISSO , and if you have any questions regarding your student visa, please email them at [email protected] .

More information will be provided to you after acceptance and can be found in our Incoming Exchange Student Handbook .

Important Dates

Use the Office of the Registrar to find important dates and resources. For a more extensive calendar overview, please see here .

Fall 2024 Term:

Spring 2025 Term:

As an exchange student, you will be registered for a full-time non-degree program and will be able to register for a variety of courses at Columbia College and/or at the Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) .

A full-time course load is 15-18 points per semester, which usually means five classes. At a minimum, you must register for at least 12 points each semester. Classes meet for two (2) to four (4) hours per week and can consist of lectures, seminars, labs, and discussion sessions.

While completing the UGE Application Requirements, you should begin looking at the course listings online to aid in your course planning. Course descriptions and class details can be found at the following websites:

• The Columbia College Bulletin includes information about all departments, course offerings, and course descriptions.
• The SEAS Bulletin includes information about all departments, course offerings, and course descriptions.
• The Directory of Classes lists the most up-to-date course offerings and indicates the time and day of class meetings, points (credits), instructors, and current student enrollments.
• The Vergil is an online system where you can plan your schedule before registration to ensure that you do not have any course conflicts. You may also view course syllabi and read professor evaluations.

Please note that courses listed as 1000 – 3000 are undergraduate courses. Courses listed as 4000 – 9000 are graduate-level. For more information, please visit Taking Courses in Other Divisions of the University . Generally, you cannot take courses from any of the professional or graduate schools at Columbia, such as the School of Professional Studies, Journalism School, Columbia Law School, etc.

We do not guarantee that Exchange students will be able to enroll in any specific class until the time of registration, and we encourage students to have a wide selection of courses ready at the time of registration.

For more information about course registration and restrictions, please view our Incoming Exchange Student Handbook.

As an Incoming Exchange Student, you will pay tuition and academic fees to your home university.

At Columbia, you are responsible for the cost of room and board, student activity fees, medical insurance, travel to and from the United States, books, and personal expenses. Upon arrival, you should be prepared to pay for one semester of housing and fees.

Estimated Breakdown of Fees for 2023-24:

For more information on the fees, please see the following links:

• The Columbia College Bulletin Fees, Expenses, and Financial Aid page shares an itemized estimate of the cost of attendance.
• The SEAS Bulletin Undergraduate Tuition, Fees, and Payment page shares an itemized estimate of the cost of attendance.
• The Columbia University Student Health Insurance Plan works with Columbia Health to provide consistent, efficient care.
• Columbia Housing provides rates for the current undergraduate accommodations during the official Fall and Spring Terms.
• Columbia Dining provides convenient meal plans at a great value for students on-the-go.

As an Incoming Exchange Student, you are not required to live on-campus; however, it is strongly encouraged due to the limited amount of resources provided for off-campus housing.

Like most Columbia students, you will be living in a shared room or suite in student residential housing located near the Morningside campus . You most likely will not know exactly where you will be living until you arrive. As housing is very scarce in both Manhattan and on campus, placement in your first choice cannot be guaranteed.

After acceptance, you will receive information about a separate housing application through the Columbia Housing Portal. If you have questions, you can contact Columbia Housing by email at [email protected] .

Health & Well-Being

To ensure the safety of all students, New York State public health law and Columbia University policy require the completion of several immunization requirements and submission of documentation. The immunization requirements must be met at least 30 days prior to your scheduled registration date. Please visit the Immunization Compliance page for more information. If you have any questions, please email [email protected] .

It is also required to have U.S. Medical Insurance throughout the duration of your studies at Columbia University, even if you have insurance from your home country. Please visit the Columbia University Student Insurance Plan page for more information.

At Columbia, we offer a wide variety of services to support your well-being and safety during your stay. Please review the resources below (this is not an exhaustive list):

• Primary Care (John Jay Hall, 4th Floor) provides a full range of health care services on-campus.
• Counseling and Psychological Services (Alfred Lerner Hall, 8th Floor) support the psychological and emotional well-being of the Columbia community.
• Disability Services (Wien Hall, Main Flr., Ste. 108A) facilitates equal access for students with disabilities by coordinating accommodations and support services.
• Sexual Violence Response (700 Lerner Hall) provides trauma-informed, confidential support, and prevention programs focused on ending gender and power-based violence.
• Public Safety (101 Low Library) is committed to making Columbia's campus and its surrounding environments as safe and secure as they can be. If you are in an off-campus emergency, please dial 9-11 .

We encourage you to let our staff know if you have any conditions (health, psychological, disabilities) that might require additional support while you are in the United States. By contacting the Center for Undergraduate Global Engagement as soon as possible, we will have ample time to provide you with more information and / or prepare the appropriate accommodations.

All students of Columbia University must regularly review the COVID-19 Resource Guide for the Columbia Community website for up-to-date details regarding University policies and procedures. As the situation continues to evolve, please keep in mind that additional email communications may also be sent to you directly to your LionMail Account.

University Communications

After acceptance, you will receive a University Network ID (UNI) that is your key to accessing computer services, electronic resources, the housing portal, class registration, and more at Columbia.

Towards the beginning of your semester, we will begin to send email communications to your LionMail Account . LionMail is Columbia's state-of-the-art email, contacts, and calendaring system, powered by Google. T o verify your identity for Columbia's centralized applications, y ou will need to set up Duo as the Multifactor Authentication service.

General Data Protection Regulation

Introduced by the European Union (EU), the GDPR is intended to help protect the personal information of EU individuals/data subjects (any individual who is physically located in an EU member state, which includes both EU citizens and non-EU citizens). The EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) compliance date began on May 25th, 2018.

The GDPR provides a number of rights to EU individuals that include the following: the Right to be Informed, the Right to be Forgotten/Erasure, and the Right to Rectification. Any EU individuals who have/had a formal relationship with the University and were assigned a University Network ID (UNI) may leverage the online request forms (see Make a Request, right) for the following rights:

• Request for Information
• Right to be Forgotten/Erasure
• Right to Rectification

If you have questions or comments around these three specific rights or any other rights provided by the GDPR, please email [email protected] . You may also visit Columbia University Information Technology @ CU—GDPR​ page for more information and updates.

International student exchange (Corrected essay)

Some teachers think that international student exchange would be beneficial for all teenage school students. Do you think its advantages will outweigh the disadvantages?

WRITING TASK 2

Write about the following topic.

Some teachers think that international student exchange would be beneficial for all teenage school students.

Do you think its advantages will outweigh the disadvantages?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

SAMPLE WRITING TASK 2

There is a common belief that international student exchange programs would bring benefits to all participants. Despite some obvious disadvantages of this projects, I believe that there are outweighed by the advantages.

On the one hand, there are several major drawbacks when teenagers go overseas. Firstly, those exchange programs cost a considerable amount of money, which a handful of students may be inaccessible. For example, students who come from developing countries would find difficult to apply student exchange programs in industrial nations because of the financial burden. Secondly, even with preparation and knowledge about the new environment, adolescents could still experience culture shock, which can affect them in different ways. Another potential drawback is health issues that can occur during the stay in a foreign country.

On the other hand, I believe that the benefits are more significant than such disadvantages. One reason for this notion is that international visitors would have a shinier resume which is valuable for them in the years to come. By working in foreign organizations, they will gain many practical experience that make their profile more competitive. Another reason is that teenagers would have a chance to experience culture exchange. This broaden their mind, and also helps them make new friends for a lifetime. Additionally, after finishing the program, overseas students tend to obtain more opportunities to find good jobs because they have a strong network of friends.

In conclusion, I would argue that the advantages of international student exchange programs are more significant than the disadvantages.

Corrected Writing Task 2

There is a common belief that international student exchange programs would bring benefits to all participants. Despite some obvious disadvantages of this projects those programs’ disadvantages , I believe that there they are outweighed by cannot undermine the advantages.

Avoid using adjectives or adverbs that show high levels of certainty, such as “obvious” or “evidently”.

The word “outweigh” is already used in the topic question. “The disadvantage undermines the advantage” is a good collocation.

On the one hand, there are several major drawbacks when teenagers go overseas. Firstly, those exchange programs cost a considerable amount of money, which a handful of students may be inaccessible the expensiveness of various exchange programs makes them inaccessible to many students . For example, students who come from developing countries would find difficult to apply student exchange programs in industrial nations because of the financial burden difference in living standards between nations . Secondly, even with preparation and knowledge about the new environment, adolescents could still experience culture shock, which can affect them in different ways . Another potential drawback is health issues that can occur during the stay in a foreign country Health issues occur during the stay in a foreign country is another common problem among exchange students .

While joining two sentence clauses into one sentence by using “which” is a good strategy in the Speaking test, it isn’t necessarily effective in writing contexts. Try to change the original complex sentence into a short, simple sentence.

The third sentence in Paragraph 1 is kinda unclear and redundant. The idea of “financial burden” is already expressed in the previous sentence.

“Different ways?” Which ways are you referring here? Try to explain it more to make the paragraph longer and more cohesive.

Try to use the connectives (firstly, secondly, another…) more skillfully. If you keep putting a connective at the start of a sentence, then your writing can be very dull. I advise you to change the structure of the last sentence to make the connective (“another”) appear in the middle of the sentence instead of at the beginning.

On the other hand, I believe that the benefits are more significant than such aforementioned disadvantages. One reason for this notion is that international visitors students would have a shinier attractive resume which is valuable for them in the years to come. By working in foreign organizations, they will gain many practical experience that make their profile more competitive. Another reason is that teenagers would have a chance to experience culture exchange cultural diversity . This broaden broadens their mind , and also helps them make new friends for a lifetime . Additionally, after finishing the program, overseas students tend to obtain more opportunities to find good jobs because they have a strong network of friends wide social circle .

“such “ is an informal word. Use “aforementioned” instead.

“An international visitor” means “a tourist”, not “an international student”.

“Shiny resume” isn’t a collocation, “attractive resume” is.

“Experience” is an uncountable noun, so don’t use “many” here.

You don’t make a “lifetime” friend that easily.

The above conclusion is unconvincing and too short. Either you write one more sentence, or remove the part “would argue that”.

--------------

While it’s okay to write a 252 words essay in a real test, try to write longer when you are at home. You should write approx 270 words, so even after you have trimmed some redundant words, your essay still have more than 250 words.

Overall score: 6.0

Task Achievement: 6

✓ addresses all parts of the task although some parts may be more fully covered than others.

✓ presents a relevant position although the conclusions may become unclear or repetitive (your conclusion is just a paraphrase of Paragraph 2’s first sentence)

✓ presents relevant main ideas but some may be inadequately developed/unclear (the part “which can affect them in different ways” is clearly an undeveloped sentence clause)

Coherence and Cohesion: 7

✗ logically organises information and ideas; there is clear progression throughout. (the ideas in each paragraph aren’t listed in a coherent way) ✓ uses a range of cohesive devices appropriately although there may be some under-/overuse. (on the one hand, on the other hand; firstly, secondly, another, one reason, another reason, additionally)

✓ presents a clear central topic within each paragraph.

Lexical Resource: 6

✓ uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task (overseas, financial burden, culture shocḳ) ✓ attempts to use less common vocabulary but with some inaccuracy (broaden the mind, to experience cultural diversity) ✓ makes some errors in spelling and/or word formation, but they do not impede communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 6 ✓ uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms. ✓ makes some errors in grammar and punctuation but they rarely reduce communication

----------------

OTHER SAMPLE WRITING TASK 2

In my opinion, that sounds cool to have a new friend in my classroom especially the foreigner. The exchange students from the other countries confront with the another people and places. There are many differences between host countries and newcomer countries including language, accent, foods, custom, law, culture, and also people ,Yet it would be a good thing for learning these difference from the friends. We could share the story what we do in daily life or a point of view in any topics such the football world cup matches, the president of U.S. speech or the brand new movies release. It is a chance to learn about living adaptation and communication skills, Besides travelling guide experience when you lead your friends to journey the local attraction is significantly exciting. On the other hand, attending the new people, For some people it is hard situation to compromise with the newcomers. However, time can relieve the distance and harmonise the relationship. The racism is still patent in some countries, It is like the burden to have a connection among the classroom. Therefore, the teacher plays a key role in mediator to prevent the problem if not the unwanted situation may occur. In conclusion, the exchange student has a lot of advantage in almost cases. The opportunities to interact with the foreigner make a lesson to adapt yourselves and gain life experience along with the new friends. The experience makes you stronger and worldliness. None the less, There are only some case having problem about racism that is the sensitive difficulty.

(Written by ณัช เกษม )

----------------------------

Below is the corrected essay

In my opinion, that sounds cool to have a new friend in my classroom especially the foreigner. The exchange students from the other countries confront with the another people and places. There are many differences between the host countries local people and the newcomer countries foreigner including language, accent, foods, custom, law, culture, and also people . , Yet , it would be a good thing for learning to learn these difference from the friends. We could share the story what we do in daily life or a point of view in any topics such the football world cup matches, the president of U.S. ’ speech or the brand new movies release release of a brand new movie . It is a chance to learn about living adaptation and communication skills , . Besides , travelling guide experience when you lead your friends to journey the local attraction is significantly exciting having a local friend along when traveling as a foreigner is exciting and reassuring .

Next time, try to separate the introduction from the firsty body paragraph. By missing a clear introduction, you will lower your Task Response grading a lot.

The first sentence is not only informal ( “that sounds cool” ) but also does not directly answer the topic question. If you write “ a new friend in my classroom especially the foreigner ”, the reader may think that your essay’s main focus is just “a new classmate” in general, not a “foreign” one.

The second sentence is very unclear. Try to join the first and the second sentence into one only.

While South East Asia languages are topic-prominent (the grammar isn’t important, but the topic behind the sentence is), English is much more rigid in terms of grammatical structure. In case of your third sentence, what you are talking about is not the different between two countries , but that of the people of two countries .

The correct idiom here is not “something for doing” , but rather “ something to do/to be done ”

Your last sentence sounds ungrammatical and foreign to a English speaker.

There are many punctuation mistakes presented.

On the other hand, attending regarding of the new people appearance of foreigners , For for some people , it is a hard situation when you have to compromise with the newcomers. However, time can relieve the distance and harmonise the relationship with time, the cultural barrier will be reduce . The racism is still patent prevalent in some countries, It it is like the a burden to have a connection be overcomed among in the classroom. Therefore, the teacher plays a key role in mediator to prevent the problem if not the a unwanted situation may occur.

I guess that you often misuse “ a/the ” since there is no article words in Thai. But that is something you must overcome.

Pay attention to collocations. English native speakers don’t use word pairs like “ relieve the distance ”. “To harmonise the relationship” is fine, but I am doubt it should be use in this context.

In conclusion, the exchange student has having a foreign exchange student in the classroom brings out a lot of advantage in almost cases . The opportunities to interact with the foreigner make a lesson provide a chance to adapt yourselves and gain life experience , along with the new friends. The experience makes you stronger and worldliness more mature . None the less Nonetheless , There there are only some case s having problem about when racism that is the sensitive difficulty obstacle .

Stay faithful to the topic question. Since the question here is “can all the students, both the foreign and the native ones, reap benefit?”, you must address it in your conclusion.

Using “ worldliness ” here is very unnatural. First, “worldliness” is a noun, not an adjective, so it cannot go along with “strong”. Second, it is a vague word when being taken out from the context. I suggest you use something like “ mature ”.

To strengthen your conclusion, don’t put the oppose idea at the end. Instead, put in at the beginning, then affirm your opinion as a contrast.

Overall: 4.5

Task Response: 4

✓ responds to the task only in a minimal way or the answer is tangential; the format may be inappropriate ( failing to separate the introduction and the first body paragraph lowers your band score here from 5 to 4 ) ✓ presents a position but this is unclear ( due to the unclear conclusion ) ✓ presents some main ideas but these are difficult to identify and may be repetitive, irrelevant or not well supported

Coherence and Cohesion: 5

✓ presents information with some organisation but there may be a lack of overall progression

✗ makes inadequate, inaccurate or over use of cohesive devices ( The writer has used some common connectives. Could reach a 6 score next time. )

✓ may be repetitive because of lack of referencing and substitution

✓ may not write in paragraphs, or paragraphing may be inadequate

Lexical Resource: 5

✓ uses a limited range of vocabulary, but this is minimally adequate for the task

✓ may make noticeable errors in spelling and/or word formation that may cause some difficulty for the reader

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 4

✓ uses only a very limited range of structures with only rare use of subordinate clauses ( there is no formal, academic sentence; the essay looks like an informal speech )

✓ some structures are accurate but errors predominate, and punctuation is often faulty ( many punctuation faults are presented)

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Thomas L. Friedman

Why the Campus Protests Are So Troubling

By Thomas L. Friedman

Opinion Columnist

Readers have been asking me, and I have been asking myself of late, how I feel about the campus demonstrations to stop the war in Gaza. Anyone reading this column since Oct. 7 knows that my focus has been on events on the ground in the Middle East, but this phenomenon has become too big to ignore. In short: I find the whole thing very troubling, because the dominant messages from the loudest voices and many placards reject important truths about how this latest Gaza war started and what will be required to bring it to a fair and sustainable conclusion.

My problem is not that the protests in general are “antisemitic” — I would not use that word to describe them, and indeed, I am deeply uncomfortable as a Jew with how the charge of antisemitism is thrown about on the Israel-Palestine issue. My problem is that I am a hardheaded pragmatist who lived in Beirut and Jerusalem, cares about people on all sides and knows one thing above all from my decades in the region: The only just and workable solution to this issue is two nation-states for two indigenous peoples.

If you are for that, whatever your religion, nationality or politics, you’re part of the solution. If you are not for that, you’re part of the problem.

And from everything I have read and watched, too many of these protests have become part of the problem — for three key reasons.

First, they are virtually all about stopping Israel’s shameful behavior in killing so many Palestinian civilians in its pursuit of Hamas fighters, while giving a free pass to Hamas’s shameful breaking of the cease-fire that existed on Oct. 7. On that morning, Hamas launched an invasion in which it murdered Israeli parents in front of their children, children in front of their parents — documenting it on GoPro cameras — raped Israeli women and kidnapped or killed everyone they could get their hands on, from little kids to sick grandparents.

Again, you can be — and should be — appalled at Israel’s response: bombing everything in its path in Gaza so disproportionately that thousands of children have been killed, maimed and orphaned . But if you refuse to acknowledge what Hamas did to trigger this — not to justify what Israel has done, but to explain how the Jewish state could inflict so much suffering on Palestinian men, women and children in reverse — you’re just another partisan throwing another partisan log on the fire. By giving Hamas a pass, the protests have put the onus on Israel to such a degree that its very existence is a target for some students, while Hamas’s murderous behavior is passed off as a praiseworthy adventure in decolonization .

Second, when people chant slogans like “liberate Palestine” and “from the river to the sea,” they are essentially calling for the erasure of the state of Israel, not a two-state solution. They are arguing that the Jewish people have no right to self-determination or self-defense. I don’t believe that about Jews, and I don’t believe that about Palestinians. I believe in a two-state solution in which Israel, in return for security guarantees, withdraws from the West Bank, Gaza Strip and Arab areas of East Jerusalem, and a demilitarized Palestinian state that accepts the principle of two states for two peoples is established in those territories occupied in 1967.

I believe in that so strongly that the thing I am most proud of in my 45-year career is my interview in February 2002 with the Saudi crown prince, Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz, in which he, for the first time, called on the entire Arab League to offer full peace and normalization of relations with Israel in exchange for full withdrawal to the 1967 lines — a call that led the Arab League to hold a peace conference the next month, on March 27 and 28, in Beirut to do just that. It was called the Arab Peace Initiative .

And do you know what Hamas’s response was to that first pan-Arab peace initiative for a two-state solution? I’ll let CNN tell you . Here’s its report from Israel on the evening of March 27, 2002, right after the Arab League peace summit opened:

NETANYA, Israel — A suicide bomber killed at least 19 people and injured 172 at a popular seaside hotel Wednesday, the start of the Jewish religious holiday of Passover. At least 48 of the injured were described as “severely wounded.” The bombing occurred in a crowded dining room at the Park Hotel, a coastal resort, during the traditional meal marking the start of Passover. … The Palestinian group Hamas, an Islamic fundamentalist group labeled a terrorist organization by the U.S. State Department, claimed responsibility for the attack.

Yes, that was Hamas’s response to the Arab peace initiative of two nation-states for two peoples: blowing up a Passover Seder in Israel.

Hey, Friedman, but what about all the violence that Israeli settlers perpetrated against Palestinians and how Bibi Netanyahu deliberately built up Hamas and undermined the Palestinian Authority, which embraced Oslo?

Answer: That violence and those Netanyahu actions are awful and harmful to a two-state solution as well. That is why I am intensely both anti-Hamas and anti-Netanyahu. And if you oppose just one and not also the other, you should reflect a little more on what you are shouting at your protest or your anti-protest. Because no one has done more to harm the prospects of a two-state solution than the codependent Hamas and Netanyahu factions.

Hamas is not against the post-1967 occupation. It is against the existence of a Jewish state and believes there should be an Islamic state between the river and the sea. When protests on college campuses ignore that, they are part of the problem. Just as much as Israel supporters who ignore the fact that the far-right members in Netanyahu’s own coalition government are for a Jewish state from the Jordan River to the Mediterranean Sea. How do I know? Because Netanyahu wrote it into the coalition agreemen t between himself and his far-right partners.

The third reason that these protests have become part of the problem is that they ignore the view of many Palestinians in Gaza who detest Hamas’s autocracy. These Palestinians are enraged by precisely what these student demonstrations ignore: Hamas launched this war without permission from the Gazan population and without preparation for Gazans to protect themselves when Hamas knew that a brutal Israeli response would follow. In fact, a Hamas official said at the start of the war that its tunnels were for only its fighters, not civilians.

That is not to excuse Israel in the least for its excesses, but, again, it is also not to give Hamas a pass for inviting them.

My view: Hamas was ready to sacrifice thousands of Gazan civilians to win the support of the next global generation on TikTok. And it worked. But one reason it worked was a lack of critical thinking by too many in that generation — the result of a campus culture that has become way too much about what to think and not how to think.

I highly recommend a few different articles about how angry Gazans are at Hamas for starting this war without any goal in mind other than the fruitless task of trying to destroy Israel so Hamas’s leader, Yahya Sinwar, could get his personal revenge.

I was particularly struck by a piece in The National, a newspaper in Abu Dhabi, by Ahmed Fouad Alkhatib, a Palestinian American raised in Gaza. The headline is: “Israel’s War Has Killed 31 Members of My Family, Yet It’s Vital to Speak Out Against Hamas.” Alkhatib placed Hamas’s Oct. 7 attack in the context of the rising protests against its inept and autocrat rule that have broken out periodically in Gaza since 2019, under the banner of “We Want to Live.”

Wrote Alkhatib, a political analyst who is a nonresident senior fellow at the Atlantic Council: “Having grown up in Gaza, I experienced Hamas’s rise to power and their gradual grip over the Strip and Palestinian politics and society, hiding behind a resistance narrative and using extremist politics to sabotage prospects for a peaceful resolution to the conflict with Israel. Months before Oct. 7, tens of thousands of Gazans protested in the streets in defiance of Hamas, just as they had in 2019 and 2017.”

Alkhatib added that the “‘We Want to Live’ protest movement decried living conditions and unemployment in Gaza, as well as the lack of a political horizon for meaningful change in the territory’s realities and opportunities. Hamas’s regime consisted of a criminal and despotic enterprise that used Gaza as a haven for the group’s members and affiliates and turned Palestinians there into aid-dependent subjects reliant on the international community” and turned Gaza into “a ‘resistance citadel’ that was part of a nefarious regional alliance with Iran.”

A campus with critical thinkers might have had a teach-in on the central lawn on that subject, not just on the violence of Israeli settlers.

Against this backdrop, we are seeing college presidents at places like Rutgers and Northwestern agree to some of the demands by students to end their protests. As NPR summarized them, the “demands vary by school, though they generally call for an end to the Israel-Hamas war, disclosures of institutional investments and divestment from companies with ties to Israel or that otherwise profit from its military operation in Gaza.”

What Palestinians and Israelis need most now are not performative gestures of disinvestment but real gestures of impactful investment, not the threat of a deeper war in Rafah but a way to build more partners for peace. Invest in groups that promote Arab-Jewish understanding, like the Abraham Initiatives or the New Israel Fund. Invest in management skills capacity-building for Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza, like the wonderful Education for Employment network or Anera, that will help a new generation to take over the Palestinian Authority and build strong, noncorrupt institutions to run a Palestinian state.

This is not a time for exclusionary thinking. It is a time for complexity thinking and pragmatic thinking: How do we get to two nation-states for two indigenous peoples? If you want to make a difference and not just make a point, stand for that, work for that, reject anyone who rejects it and give a hug to anyone who embraces it.

The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. We’d like to hear what you think about this or any of our articles. Here are some tips . And here’s our email: [email protected] .

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Thomas L. Friedman is the foreign affairs Opinion columnist. He joined the paper in 1981 and has won three Pulitzer Prizes. He is the author of seven books, including “From Beirut to Jerusalem,” which won the National Book Award. @ tomfriedman • Facebook