LEARN FOR LIFE WITH SCCE
Come home more confident, independent and fluent in a new language, with friends and a second family for life. Since 1983, Southern Cross Cultural Exchange (SCCE) has helped Australian and New Zealand students aged 14 to 18 do exactly that through our high school student exchange programs.
We handle the hard parts: a carefully screened volunteer host family, enrolment at a local high school in one of 17 countries, flights, insurance, and a local coordinator plus 24/7 support while you’re away. Choose from 6 weeks to a full Academic Year, and ask about the Global Explorer Scholarship.
understanding High school STUDENT exchange
guide for students & parents.
A clear, step‑by‑step guide for Australian and New Zealand families considering a high school exchange.
Explore our exchange programs
EXPLORE CLASSIC PROGRAMS
EXPLORE SELECT PROGRAMS
OUR
DESTINATIONS
BECOME A
HOST FAMILY
SCHOLARSHIP · CLOSES 31 JAN 2027
Win up to $15,000 towards your year on exchange
More than a scholarship: a guided personal growth program with missions, medals and career coaching.
- Ages 14-17, living in Australia or New Zealand
- Classic Academic Year programs
- $5,000 runner-up awards in WA, SA & TAS
WHY FAMILIES CHOOSE SCCE
Focused
expertise
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. Safety and wellbeing is our priority.
Exchange
experience
Many of our team members were exchange students, parents of children who have studied abroad, or have hosted exchange students.
40+ years of high school exchange
SINCE 1983
READY TO START?
Choosing an exchange is a big decision, and you don’t have to make it alone.
Most families start with a free online info session. You will hear how exchange works, what it costs and what support is included, then ask our team anything. No pressure and no commitment.
Prefer to talk straight away? Book a free 15 or 30 minute call.
Join an Information Session Webinar
Amazing high schools, incredible value
Classic high school exchange programs at competitive prices
Classic High School USA
Classic High School Germany
Classic High School Japan
Classic High School Argentina
Classic High School Denmark
Classic High School Finland
Classic High School Norway
Classic High School Sweden
Classic High School Australia
Classic High School The Netherlands
Classic High School - New Zealand
Classic High School Canada
Classic High School France
Classic High School Italy
Classic High School Spain
Classic High School UK
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Student exchange FAQs
What is a student exchange program?
A high school student exchange program is where you live with a host family in another country and attend a local high school as a regular student. You take a break from school at home, immerse yourself in a new language and culture, then come back and continue school in Australia or New Zealand. SCCE programs run from 6 weeks to a full Academic Year. Find out more about how an exchange program works.
How much does a high school exchange cost?
The cost depends on the country you choose and how long you go for. Short programs of 6 weeks to 3 months cost the least, and a full Academic Year costs the most. Every program includes return flights, comprehensive travel insurance, school enrolment and full board with your host family. Sibling discounts, hosting rebates and scholarships can reduce the price. See current prices for every country.
How old do you have to be to go on exchange?
Most SCCE programs are for students aged 14 to 18, but each country has its own range. For example, the USA is 15 to 18.5, Japan is 15 to 17 and the UK is 16 to 17. You’ll find the exact ages on each destination page.
Which countries can I go to on exchange?
SCCE offers high school exchange in 17 countries: Argentina, Australia (for New Zealand students), Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand (for Australian students), Norway, Spain, Sweden, the UK and the USA. Our most popular destinations are the USA, Japan, France and Italy. Explore all our destinations.
Is student exchange safe?
Your safety and wellbeing is our highest priority. Overseas host families are interviewed in their homes and referee checked, and criminal record checks are completed wherever local law allows. Every student has a local coordinator, a Safety Card with emergency contacts, and access to our 24/7 emergency phone line. We monitor DFAT and MFAT travel advice, and our quality management system complies with ISO 9001. Read more about our safety and wellbeing approach.
How do I apply for a student exchange?
Start by joining a free Information Session Webinar, with no pressure and no commitment. Then book a 15 or 30-minute call so we can talk through the best program for you, and apply online. We’ll guide you through the interview and next steps, then match you with a host family and school. Join a webinar or book a call today.
Are there scholarships for student exchange?
Yes. The Global Explorer Scholarship offers a National Scholarship worth up to $15,000, plus $5,000 scholarships for students in WA, SA and Tasmania. It’s open to students aged 14 to 17 in Australia and New Zealand applying for a Classic Academic Year in selected countries. Applications close 31 January 2027.
ENQUIRE NOW
The best way to start is to join a free Information Session Webinar, with no pressure and no commitment.
Then fill in your details below and we’ll be in touch to answer your questions.
