Founded in 1983. Celebrating 40 years of creating global experiences & life-long connections

Experience Your World with Southern Cross Cultural Exchange

Founded in 1983, Southern Cross Cultural Exchange (SCCE) is Australia’s first not-for-profit student exchange organisation. For over 40 years, we have been dedicated to providing high school students with life-changing international experiences. Our programs range from 6-week cultural exchanges to 2–3-month programs, as well as Academic Semester and Year exchanges in destinations such as France, Germany, Denmark, Argentina, Italy, Japan, and more. Through immersive experiences, we foster personal growth, global understanding, and lifelong connections. Our expert team strives to support the student’s journey, making international exchange both enriching and rewarding.

SCCE BONUS!!
Free Paris Soft landing Camp

Start Your France Classic Academic Semester or Year exchange program with four nights in Paris, departing August 2025.
Kick off your adventure with a four-night Soft Landing Camp in Paris, now included at no extra cost — a bonus valued at over $1,000! This incredible offer is available exclusively for our France Classic Academic Semester & Year programs departing in August 2025.

Immerse yourself in French culture from the very beginning. You’ll explore iconic Parisian landmarks, make new friends with fellow exchange students, and gain valuable advice on preparing for real life in France. Plus, you’ll get a head start on speaking French and ease into your new surroundings—all while shaking off the jetlag. It’s the perfect way to prepare for life with your host family and settle into your local community with confidence.

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Focused expertise

We focus on two things: high school exchanges and you. We have a strong understanding of cultural exchange in other countries and take the time to understand your needs.

Your support

At home and in your host country, our team is there available to support you before, during and after your exchange.

Safety & wellbeing

Southern Cross Cultural Exchange has sent more exchange students than any other organisation since 1983. Your safety and wellbeing is our priority.

Guides with exchange experience

Many of our team members were exchange students, are parents of children who have studied abroad, or have hosted exchange students. We are here to help guide you.

Upcoming events and webinars

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Check out our programs

Our European destinations

Immerse yourself into the language, culture and lifestyle

France SHORT PROGRAMS

Short Program Host Sibling and Private School Guarantee at no additional fee. Departures are in late 2025, for 6 Weeks / 2-3 months.

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Why become an exchange student

To challenge yourself by trying something totally different! Exchange students aged 14 – 18  are granted the opportunity to become part of another culture by living with an overseas family, attending the local secondary school, immersing themselves into another way of life in a meaningful and educational way. Students gain a new perspective on themselves! Attitudes and values become clearer. Curiosity about cultural differences grows. As well as gaining new friends, a second family and language skills, future education and career opportunities are often enhanced through participation in an exchange program

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Our Mission Statement 

We believe in building a better cultural understanding between nations and people. By offering safe and exciting ways for young people to fulfil their dreams of discovering a new culture through learning, we help create better global citizens, while contributing to improved quality of life for those less fortunate. 

Southern Cross Cultural Exchange takes pride in designing programs ranging in duration from six weeks up to an Academic Year, which reflect the values and ideals of Australian students, families, and schools.  With four decades of Australian-based experience, SCCE staff have a unique ability to respond to the changing needs of Australian education systems through the innovation, diversification and adaptation of our programs and procedures. 

Our vast experience in providing high quality exchange programs is reflected in its approval and registration with Australian state and federal education departments, and its acceptance by immigration and education authorities around the world. 

Recruiting professionals qualified and experienced in the fields of education, counselling, travel and administration, most of Southern Cross Cultural Exchange’s staff are former exchange students whose unique experiences and knowledge, as well as enthusiasm for intercultural exchange programs, directly benefits today’s participants.

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