High school exchange / Year 13

What is high school overseas exchange?

Year 9-12 Australian students can go to study in a Japanese high school, for a few months up to a year.
You can also take this as a 'Year 13' after high school.

• You need to apply through a registered exchange organisation, some of which are private businesses.

• In your application process, your grades, attendance and attitude toward school will be considered, and will require personal/teacher references.

• You will need to pay a fee for most programs, which will include a program fee, round-trip airfare, and travel insurance, as well as spending money. 

• You generally can't choose where you go in Japan.

Benefits of going on a high school exchange

Enjoy a Japanese high school environment without the academic pressure

• You get to enjoy the normal student lifestyle, and attend all of the same classes as Japanese students.

• However, your grades will not be counted toward your Australian report (you are expected to attend classes and maintain a good attitude however!)

• Many exchange students use class time to study Japanese for lessons they aren't proficient enough to understand/participate in

Live with a Japanese family

• Staying with a Japanese family gives you the chance to speak Japanese and make a lifelong friendship with a Japanese person!

How long do I go for?

Short/holiday programs

• Some programs are as short as 2 weeks! They may include some travel, with a short stay at a Japanese high school. You don't need to miss school for these.

A few months to a year

• Usually, you will go for at least 3 months, up until a whole year.

What is the cost?

Subsidised programs

• Organisations such as Rotary International will cover the host family cost, schooling fees as well as giving you a small allowance.

Costs

• Contact each organisation to ask them for average costs. Each exchange organisation will have some information on their website.