Where do I start?

Making the decision to become a foreign exchange student can be exciting, scary and overwhelming all at the same time! It is common not to know where to start. Foreign exchange students typically enter our district one of two ways, either through an agency (J-1 Visa), or as tuiton paying student (F-1 Visa).  

Agency Based (J-1 Visa) vs. Tuition Paying (F-1 Visa) Foreign Exchange 

Agency Based, J-1 Visa

Agency based, J-1 international exchange students are assisted by a district approved organization, agency or program. These families work with and pay the agency directly to coordinate their stay in America. The agency guides the family through the foreign exchange process, collects and submits all paperwork with the school district, and sets up and vets the host family for the exchange student. 

For a complete list of approved agencies, please see here.

For Policy surrounding J-1 Foreign Exchange, please see below.

Policy 3114: Foreign Exchange

Policy 3114(R): Agency Based Exchange 

Tuition Paying, F-1 Visa

Tuition paying, F-1 students navigate the foreign exchange process with less support. These families often have a connection within the city that is, or assists with finding a host family.  F-1 students and families work direclty with our district's Foreign Exchange Coordinator/Designated School Official (DSO) to submit all documents, verify placement, complete enrollment and submit payment. Tuiton differs each year and is set by the State of Idaho and the cost to educate students within our district.

To become an F-1 exchange student for the 2026/2027 school year,  please complete the application clicking on this link. . 

Policy 3115: Tuition Paying Foreign Exchange 

Policy 3115(R): Tuition Paying Exchange 

What Documents will I Need?

All foreign exchange students will need specific documentation. It will include, but is not limited to:

• Copy of Student Passport

• Official Translated Immunization Records (list any medical/physical limitations)

• Official Translated School Transcripts (Indicating high school grade placement and courses taken)

• Record of English Proficiency (assessment or written letter)

Other Needed Info:

• The name, country, grade level and date of birth of the exchange student

• The name, address and phone number of the host family (who must live in the attendance area of the school in which placement is requested)

• Name, address, and contact information of parent and/or guardian.

The documentation above will either be collected by the foreign exchange agency you are working with or submitted within the Tuition Paying (F-1) Application.