About high school in Argentina

As an exchange student in Argentina, you will experience living as a true Argentinian teenager. The first thing you may notice at school is the importance of “El saludo de la Bandera”. This is a morning ritual, where two students hoist the Argentinean flag, while the rest of the students remain silent. In some schools, the national anthem is sung. You will notice that the Argentinian students have a deep respect for their national symbols, both in the school and in the public life.

Furthermore, the teachers here are addressed in a formal way, the school’s rules are carefully followed, and school uniforms are compulsory. This gives our students the opportunity to immerse into everyday life.

Subjects and school activities

High school education in Argentina is divided into two periods: a Basic and a Specialisation level. You will be placed in the program and grade that suits your education and age the best. The most common courses are Natural Science, Social Science, Economics, and Art. Most of the programs have set subjects, but you may be able to choose one subject.

Schools in Argentina do not usually offer extracurricular activities or sports. If you want to engage in a sport and activity, your host family or Local Coordinator will help you get contact a nearby club. This is a wonderful way to meet new friends and develop your language and communication skills.

Semesters and breaks

The Argentinian school year starts in March and finishes in December. You often have a summer break from December to March, and a two-week winter break in July. You may have the opportunity to see more of Argentina on the offered trips and excursions.

Your spare time in Argentina

There is much to discover during your high school exchange in Argentina. What you do in your spare time depends on your personal interest as well as your host family’s location. From the northern subtropical regions to the southern glacial zones, with vast green plains and highest mountains in between, there is much to see and do. Several trips are organised throughout the year, giving you the opportunity to explore the best of the country. These trips are subject to availability and at an additional cost.

Mate and asados

An active ocial life is an important part of the Argentinian society. What our former exchange students in Argentina have appreciated is the friendliness and open attitude from the local community. You will have a lot of attention and questions from curious classmates when you first arrive.

After school, the Argentinian teenagers often hang out in big groups, play basketball or football, or talk over a “mate”, which is an extremely popular tea-like drink in South America. Arranging barbeques, asados, being with friends and families is common. Going to Argentina on an exchange program is perfect if you who want to develop your Spanish language and meet lots of new people.

Staying with an Argentinian host family

As an exchange student in Argentina, you will be staying with a caring Argentinian host family. This is an excellent way of experiencing the culture from the inside out. You will have plenty of opportunities to practice your Spanish skills, join asados as well as becoming part of your loving host family.

The Argentinians families are often very honest and straightforward. Feel free to speak your mind and do not take it personally if someone raises their voice. People here often talk loudly, passionately and frequently. After a couple of months, you will find yourself engaging in loud discussions and debates in Spanish.

Carefully selected host families

Our host families are all carefully selected and are looking forward to welcoming you to their home. The families come in all shapes and sizes, but the typical Argentinian family has of a mother, father and 2–3 children.

The families are usually very close to their grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins so you can expect to meet many Argentinians during your high school exchange program here. Some families live in villages, other in small, medium, or larger cities. Either way, they are excited about welcoming you into their home as well as learning more about your culture.