Full Colour Brochure - Student Exchange Australia New Zealand

experience
is everything
TM
SECONDARY STUDENT EXCHANGE PROGRAMS RAMS

1
Whether you’re interested
in a short summer program,
a semester program or an
academic year program you’ll
find this brochure a great
place to start.
Toward the back, we highlight
Gap year and school leaver
options and provide a summary
of additional programs that
are pitched towards people
who have completed their
secondary education.
contents
Programs at a glance 2
experienceiseverything TM Eligibility 3
Free information evenings & online sessions 4
We have many years experience
in delivering high quality Student exchange programs 5-6
programs. All our staff have
either been exchange students, Safety and wellbeing 7
have lived, worked or studied
overseas. They understand the
challenges involved and are
Online student resources 8
committed to providing you
with a high level of service and
Student Exchange Australia New Zealand Ltd 9-10
support throughout.
How do I apply 11
Disclaimer: the information contained in this
brochure is correct at the time of printing,
January 2012. Student Exchange Australia New
Our customer service commitment 12
Zealand Ltd and Student Placement Australia
New Zealand Pty Ltd reserve the right to change
program specifi cations at any time.
Frequently asked questions 13-14
Host an exchange student 15
Business relationships 16
Gap year options 17-18
COVER IMAGE: Emma-Lee Foy (bottom right),
on exchange in The Netherlands, our fi rst
Indigenous Scholarship Winner 2011, WA

programs
at a glance
Age Program Description Program Features Page
Secondary Student Exchange Programs
14 -19
Summer Explorer Program
Short term exchange program over the summer break. Spend
2-3 months in France, Canada, Germany, Italy, Japan, Spain,
Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Australia and New Zealand;
living with a host family and attending school.
5
14 - 19
Semester Exchange Program
Spend 4-6 months in one of over 20 destinations;
living with a host family and attending school.
Departures early in the year or mid year.
6
14 - 19
Year Exchange Program
Spend 10-12 months in one of over 20 destinations;
living with a host family and attending school.
Departures early in the year or mid year.
6
Additional Gap year and school leaver options
16 - 26
Sports Scholarships USA
Use your sporting skills to access generous sports
scholarships to study at a university in the USA.
Open to recreational or amateur sports men or women
of low, average and high level ability.
17-18
16+
Study USA
The program gives you access to a wide range of generous
academic scholarships from a large number of universities
across the United States.
17-18
18 - 30
Live & Learn
Spend up to 3 months in France or Germany; living with a host
family and helping them learn English. Great stepping stone for
a working holiday.
17-18
18 - 30
Au Pair
Spend 12 months in the US, France, Germany or Spain; living
with a host family and caring for their children. Pocket money
included plus the chance to attend Evening College.
17-18
www.studentexchange.org.nz www.studentexchange.org.au 2

experience
is everythingTM
We are looking for bright, open minded,
fl exible young people who are willing to move
outside their comfort zones and who want to
learn about the world and themselves.
Being an exchange student is a challenging, rewarding and fun
experience. You’re not a tourist or a guest. You’re actually living in
your host country as a member of that community.
You’ll be placed with a host family and attend a local school.
You’ll live like a local and become immersed in the culture.
You’ll learn the language and gain invaluable international
experience. You’ll learn a lot about yourself.
Student exchange programs promote tolerance, maturity and
independence. They also encourage an international perspective.
In a very competitive world these are highly sought after qualities.
Experience is everything.
Investment for Life
Being an exchange student is an investment for life and
complements your formal education in important and exciting
ways. The experience of living, studying or working overseas
can bring enormous rewards:
learn another language and open career doors you
didn’t know existed
get to know how others live and come to see the world
from another perspective
test yourself and acquire independence and maturity
make new friends and appreciate old ones even more
gain experience and judgement
learn about the world fi rst hand
Long after you return home your exchange experience will
infl uence and inform your life. It will provide you with a substantial
backdrop from which to make future study and career choices.
Employers are increasingly alert to the benefi ts of student
exchange. Your experience will set you apart from the crowd and
mark you as someone who has proven themselves in challenging
circumstances.
Gap year options
If you are finishing school soon why not spend
your Gap year as an exchange student
It’s a great way to see more of your world before
starting your career or further studies.
A number of countries will accept high school graduates on
their exchange programs. Call us on 1300 135 331
(in Australia) or 0800 440 079 (in NZ) and we’ll discuss your
options with you. Please also take a look at the programs
pitched towards people who have completed their secondary
education which are outlined on pages 17-18.
Challenge Yourself
Please don’t think living and studying overseas is easy:
It requires courage to travel half way round the world to live
in a new community very different from your own.
It requires an open mind to live in another culture,
to observe and appreciate the differences and to truly
learn from the experience.
It requires fl exibility to attend a new school, make new
friends and perhaps learn a new language.
You will fi nd that all the familiarity of home – the ways of doing
things, the people, sights, sounds, smells - are suddenly no
longer there. You will be confronted with completely different
ways of seeing and understanding the world around you.
You become immersed in the local community.
You may encounter homesickness and culture shock
particularly in the early stages of the program.
But if you have realistic expectations and are prepared to challenge
yourself then it can be a life changing experience.
Eligibility
You are eligible to participate on the Summer Explorer,
Semester, or Year exchange programs if you meet the
following requirements:
still at school when you apply
have maintained the equivalent of or better than a C grade
average since Year 9 (Australia)
have achieved a National Certifi cate of Educational
Achievement at the appropriate level, or produce a statement
from your school about anticipated levels of achievement when
the certifi cate is awarded (New Zealand)
are in good physical and mental health
are mature and open-minded
are fl exible, adaptable, responsible and ready to learn
are between 15 and 18 years old (exceptions may be made
for 14 and 19 year olds)
Please note that Gap year option programs have different
eligibility criteria.
3
experienceiseverything TM

information
evenings &
online sessions
Free Information Evenings
Student Exchange Australia New Zealand Ltd holds over 60 free
information evenings across Australia and New Zealand each year.
Invitation
where:
Information evenings are
held on a monthly basis in
Auckland, Brisbane, Melbourne
and Sydney and at regular
intervals in Adelaide, Cairns,
Canberra, Christchurch, Darwin,
Gold Coast, Hobart, Perth,
Toowoomba, Townsville and
Wellington.
when:
Information evenings start at
7.30pm and run for about
an hour and a half. They are
friendly and free and are the
best way for us to address your
specifi c questions in person.
Feedback from students
and parents who attended
our information sessions
“Interesting. Informative.
Reassuring!” Jess (Sydney)
“It covered everything that I wished
to know.” Tom (Auckland)
“Very motivating and informative.”
Joshua (Sydney)
“Informative, comprehensive,
well presented.” Melissa (Wellington)
“Open, well presented,
informative.” Tom (Canberra)
“The information session was
fantastic - very friendly and
informative.” Susie (Melbourne)
“Well organised, honest, up front,
helpful.” Hannah (Melbourne)
“Very, very good, especially hearing
from someone who has been
on exchange. Really did cover
everything.” Caitlin (Brisbane)
“Interesting. Makes you aware
of the challenges.” Tui (Cairns)
“Good presentation.
Questions answered thoroughly.”
Jacqueline (Adelaide)
“Very interesting. Clear and
concise.” Ellen (Perth)
Come and meet our staff
Hear comprehensive information on all aspects of exchange
Listen to former exchange students talk about their experiences
Ask questions
Listen to questions asked by other students and parents
Meet other students who are considering going on exchange
For details of dates and venues go to our website.
Online Information Sessions
If you live remotely from the major cities or cannot get
along in person you can either watch our On Demand
media presentation or attend one of our LIVE Online info
sessions. Our online sessions provide access to the same
comprehensive information presented at all of our city
sessions and they are an extremely convenient way for you to
hear from our National Director and Program Managers.
REGISTER NOW
Go to our website
On Demand
The On Demand Info Session is a prerecorded video
presentation you can watch anytime you like, from the
comfort of your own home. Our staff will talk you through
all aspects of exchange via streaming video, while you
watch a presentation.
LIVE Online
The Live Online Info Session is conducted by a senior
member of our staff using a service which allows us to
meet online and over the telephone. You will be able to
meet our representative over a video internet connection,
ask any questions and watch a presentation. When you
register you will be sent detailed instructions on how to
join the meeting.
www.studentexchange.org.nz www.studentexchange.org.au 4

Summer
Explorer
Programs
Our Summer Explorer Programs
offer the chance to be an
exchange student without
interrupting your schooling
at home.
Duration
You can go for 2 – 3 months
Destinations
You can go to France, Canada,
Germany, Italy, Japan, Spain,
Denmark, Norway, Sweden,
Australia and New Zealand
Departure
Students typically leave in November
and get back home in time to resume
school or uni. You can also leave at
other times of the year but be sure to
talk to us about your requirements.
My exchange was without a doubt
the best thing I’ve ever done! I wouldn’t
have wanted it any other way! It was
truly humbling to be able to experience a
different culture fi rst-hand, discover aspects
of French life that were totally new and
unfamiliar to me, and explore and appreciate
the beauty of another country. I met some
of the most amazing people, experienced a
new way of life (and food!), and did things
I’d normally never get the chance to do.
I learnt so much from my exchange – not
only in terms of my French, but also about
myself, and what I want to do in the future.
Given the chance, I would go back and do
it all over again! It was truly the experience
of a lifetime.
Claire Munro, NSW, France
Benefits
Avoid interrupting your schooling.
You can choose between an early or late
departure in November and you’ll be back
home in time to resume your studies.
If these departures don’t suit, talk to our
staff because we can often make individual
arrangements if you are prepared to pay
a little extra.
Boost your language skills.
You’ll be surprised how much your
language will improve in just 2 or 3
months. You’ll soon be communicating
freely in Italian, French, German, Japanese
or maybe even Spanish, Danish,
Norwegian or Swedish. What a great way
to lift your entry score just a few months
before your fi nal school exams.
A big plus for your future studies.
Spend your summer holidays
overseas. Experience a traditional
European Christmas, snow (hopefully!)
for the New Year in Japan, home life and
indoor activities with your host family and
new friends instead of the stereotypically
warm summer Christmas we so often
experience.
Gain new skills and confidence.
Pushing beyond your comfort zone is a
great way to lift your horizons and gain
experience. Give yourself a competitive
edge in your future career or studies.
Make new friends. Aussie and Kiwi
exchange students are popular the world
over and there will be many opportunities
to make friendships that can last a lifetime.
Long-term benefits. You will gain from
the experience in ways that will help your
future study and career choices.
Visas
Our Summer Explorer students usually
enter the country on a tourist visa
which means there are no lengthy visa
processes beforehand.
Prices
For details on prices, application
deadlines and departure dates, please
refer to our pricing and scholarship fl yer
or visit our website.
VIDEO LIBRARY
View our online
video library
on our website
5
experienceiseverything TM

Semester
& Year
Programs
Our Semester and Year
programs are the most
popular choice for students
looking to gain an in-depth
exchange experience.
They also represent
excellent value for money.
Duration
You can apply for a program of either
4 - 6 months (semester) or
10 -12 months (year).
Destinations
You can go to Argentina, Australia,
Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile,
Denmark, Finland, France, Germany,
Italy, Japan, Mexico, The Netherlands,
Norway, New Zealand, Spain, Sweden,
Switzerland, UK, and the USA.
Departure
You can choose from departures in
January - February, March (Japan)
or July - September.
During the past 4 months I think
I was only homesick for the fi rst week,
around Christmas and my birthday.
I wasn’t as homesick as I thought I would
because I was having WAY too much
fun. My Spanish has improved more
than I expected or hoped for, and I love
speaking and understanding another
language. I’m defi nitely coming back to
Spain one day. Thanks for everything!
Rhiannon Rennie, VIC, Spain
Benefits
Live Like a Local. You can be
a tourist at any stage of your life but
students on our long programs frequently
say they become part of the social fabric
of their host community. They start to think
and feel like a local. They build networks
of friends that frequently last a lifetime.
Their knowledge of the country increases
and their capacity to put matters in
perspective matures and grows.
High Level Language Skills.
If learning another language is one of
your motivations then our long programs
provide an opportunity to really hone your
skills. On a long program you can relax
in the knowledge that you have plenty of
time to adjust, make mistakes, practice
and learn. You’ll gain a level of fl uency that
only comes with prolonged immersion.
Independence and Confidence.
Although diffi cult at fi rst, you’ll be amazed
at how your self confi dence improves as
you adjust to your new life overseas.
Your sense of independence will increase
and your awareness of the world around
you will change forever.
Open Doors. Students frequently tell
us that their exchange experience opened
study and career doors they had not
previously known existed. Your experience
overseas provides you with an opportunity
to refl ect on your options and priorities.
Competitive Edge. Employers are
increasingly alert to the benefi ts of student
exchange. Your experience will set you
apart from the crowd and mark you as
someone who has proven themselves in
challenging circumstances.
Make Lasting Friendships.
The friends you make on exchange
frequently remain for life. You will share
experiences that easily transcend borders,
cultures and generations.
Attend School. School is the social
hub of the program. It’s where you will
make friends, get involved in sporting
and social activities and where you’ll
get to try new subjects or extend your
understanding of familiar subjects.
Being away from home
Being away from home for up to
12 months can be a challenging
experience and it is not for everyone.
You’re not on holiday and you are
defi nitely not a guest. Homesickness can
occasionally be acute. You sometimes
think that you’ll never get the language.
But you’ll fi nd that as you negotiate these
and other little hurdles along the way you’ll
acquire a whole new level of confi dence
and independence. The benefi ts are not
handed to you on a plate.
Early Bird Discount
You receive a $500 (semester)
or $750 (year) discount
if you submit your application
before the relevant Early Bird Deadline:
31st March for programs departing
between the following October - March
31st October for programs departing
between the following April - September
Visas
All participants are required to enter their
host country with the appropriate student
exchange visa and/or be travelling with a
passport accepted by their host country.
Prices
For details on prices, application deadlines
and departure dates, please refer to
our pricing and scholarship fl yer or visit
our website.
www.studentexchange.org.nz www.studentexchange.org.au 6

safety &
wellbeing
The safety and wellbeing of our students is our
highest priority. We understand that student excitement
at the adventure ahead is often mirrored by parental anxiety.
Supporting and guiding our students and families through a
safe and secure experience is our key objective.
We do this by:
helping prepare students prior to departure
and providing them with high quality advice
and information about their exchange experience
being available to parents throughout the exchange
for any
questions or concerns
always using recognised airlines like Qantas, Air New Zealand,
BA, Air France, Emirates, Lufthansa, Thai, Malaysian, etc.
only working with established ed and reputable overseas partners
ensuring that host families are personally interviewed in their
homes and that selection procedures and
criteria meet with
statutory requirements of the host country
ensuring that each student has a local coordinator for regular
contact and close support and advice
providing all outbound und participants with a MasterCard
multi-currency Cash Passport
card to simplify overseas
access to funds
including comprehensive medical, baggage and cancellation
insurance in our participation fee
training our staff and coordinators on a regular basis
providing an emergency ‘phone service which students or
families can call 24/7 if they experience a genuine emergency
communicating openly and regularly with all parties to the
exchange – parents, students, overseas partners etc
regularly monitoring government travel warnings from DFAT
(Australia) and MFAT (New Zealand)
We understand that, with the excitement and anticipation of an
upcoming exchange, students and their parents may not absorb all
recommendations/information at one sitting. That’s why we include
our advice and information in our orientations and in our printed
and online materials. Similar but more locally specifi c advice is
included in orientations in the host country.
Local Support Structure
All students have a local coordinator appointed to support them
throughout their time overseas. The coordinator – typically the
mother or father of a returned student - is there to provide fi rst
level support to students and families. If a student is experiencing
a problem they can talk with their local coordinator who will offer
advice and assistance. Coordinators are in regular contact with our
professional staff to share information or seek advice.
Our partners keep us informed of any developments affecting the
students’ exchange. We, in turn, contact parents if there are any
issues that require their attention.
The chart below shows the support structure that is available
to all students.
Parent and Student Handbooks
All students and parents will receive a handbook prior to the
pre-departure orientation with our staff. Each handbook contains
comprehensive information on every aspect of our exchange
program, what to expect, how to prepare prior to departure and
providing high quality advice and information about the exchange
experience.
Natural Family
Student
Coordinator
Partner Organisation
Host Family
7
experienceiseverything TM

exclusive
to our applicants
My Exchange –
A Personalised Online Resource
& Reporting Centre for Students
Once you’re accepted on to our program you’ll be given access
to ‘My Exchange’ - a personalised online resource and reporting
centre packed with info to help you prepare and make the most of
your exchange. With a secure login, you can access:
links and resources about your host country
an online travel journal allowing you to keep track of your
experience with text and images
a summary of your profi le and program information including
links to videos of returned students talking about their
experience
a personal dashboard, with quick access to news and updates
from us
an easy reporting facility allowing you to send updates directly
to us whenever you need or via monthly e-post cards &
quarterly reports
loads more info about things like coping with homesickness
and culture shock, tips on how to get along with a new
language, host family, friends, school, and heaps more
a ‘My Docs’ area where all your important documents are kept
as PDFs in one place. These might include:
– Invoices, insurance certifi cate, fl ight itineraries etc
– Host Family profi le and related correspondence
– Your original application
– Important correspondence and emails
– Travel Release forms
– Details of your returned student advisor
detailed information on what to expect whilst on exchange,
how to prepare and what to take
emergency and contact details
We know how hard it is to keep track of all the paperwork and
information. My Exchange is a great way to keep everything to do
with your exchange in one place and stay connected to us while
you’re away.
www.studentexchange.org.nz
www.studentexchange.org.au
8

student exchange
australia new zealand
Our Mission is to offer the unique experience of living and
studying in another culture and to enable young people to develop
the skills and awareness that will enhance their future potential.
Experience is everything TM .
Our Organisation
Student Exchange Australia New Zealand Ltd is incorporated in
Australia as a not-for-profi t company and is registered with the
New Zealand Companies offi ce. We are registered as a secondary
exchange organisation with Departments of Education around
Australia and with the Ministry of Education in New Zealand.
Long established relationships with our international partners
ensure the highest standards of care and support to participants.
We maintain a network of volunteer community coordinators
throughout Australia and New Zealand who work in support of
students and families during the exchange experience.
Our Staff
All of our staff have either been exchange students themselves,
have lived overseas, hosted a student, speak other languages or
have travelled extensively. They understand the challenges faced
by students, families and volunteers. This experience assures you
of the very highest levels of service and support.
Our Community Coordinators
Our Community Coordinator network extends across Australia
and New Zealand. Our coordinators conduct student interviews,
participate in information sessions and supervise the experience
of our inbound students and host families. Training for our
coordinators is conducted throughout the year in a variety of
venues to ensure that our network is up-to-date and well informed.
Our Customer Service Commitment
We provide you with a clear written commitment of the customer
service standards you can expect from your dealings with Student
Exchange Australia New Zealand Ltd (see page 12). If at any time in
your dealings with our organisation you feel we are not meeting our
Customer Service Commitment you are invited to let our National
Director know.
Low CO2
Student Exchange Australia New Zealand Ltd is offi cially certifi ed
as a Low CO2 organisation. This means that we undergo regular
carbon audits by the Carbon Reduction Institute in order to
understand how much CO2 emission we are producing.
This allows us to investigate opportunities to cut down
on these emissions through more effi cient energy
practices and staff education. We also purchase
carbon credits to help offset our emissions based
on the results of the audits.
VIDEO LIBRARY
View our online
video library
on our website
9
experienceiseverything TM

Scholarship Awards
Student Exchange Australia New Zealand Ltd is proud to offer Scholarship
Awards in the names of the following distinguished individuals:
RAWDON DALRYMPLE
Rawdon Dalrymple was born in Sydney and went to school and
university there. He was Rhodes Scholar for NSW in 1952 and
graduated from Oxford with fi rst class honours in Philosophy, Politics
and Economics. He lectured in philosophy at Sydney University and
then joined the Department of External Affairs in 1957. He joined the
Asian Development Bank in Manila in 1967 as Alternate Director,
was then minister in the Australian embassy in Jakarta from 1969 to
1972, and ambassador to Israel from 1972 to 1975.
In 1981 Mr Dalrymple was appointed ambassador to Indonesia,
in 1985 ambassador to the United States and in 1989 ambassador
to Japan. He was made an Offi cer of the Order of Australia in
1985. After retiring from Foreign Affairs and Trade in 1994 Rawdon
Dalrymple had a number of business and government appointments.
From 1966 until 2002 he taught courses in international relations
as a visiting professor in Government and International Relations
at the University of Sydney. He has published articles in journals
in Australia, the United States, France and Canada and writes
a monthly column in a leading Japanese newspaper. His book
Continental Drift: Australia’s Search for a Regional Identity was
published by Ashgate in March 2003.
FAY WILMERDING
Fay Wilmerding was an exchange student to Sweden in 1956.
She completed a Bachelor of Arts at Brown University (Providence,
Rhode Island, USA) in 1961. She went on to spend 10 months
studying language in France and teaching English. She returned to
the US where she was employed in the student exchange industry
and was subsequently asked to manage high school exchange
programs in Australia.
From 1968 to 1998, Fay played a leading role in the development
of exchange opportunities in Australia and the founding of new
programs. She was instrumental in establishing international
education opportunities for thousands of exchange students, both
Australians going overseas and young people coming to Australia.
Her work contributed strongly to the formation of student exchange
programs we know today.
Since leaving her thirty year career in the exchange student industry
Fay has completed a Bachelor of Laws with fi rst class honours at
the University of Technology (Sydney). In 2007, she achieved her
Masters in Criminology from the University of Sydney. She was
admitted as a Legal Practitioner of the Supreme Court of NSW in
2004 and has worked assisting a Judge of the Supreme Court of
NSW and with Legal Aid NSW.
Fay Wilmerding
Rawdon Dalrymple AO
TOP RIGHT:
Georgia Bryers, Indigenous
Scholarship Winner 2011, NZ
ABOVE:
Grace Casey, Indigenous
Scholarship Winner 2012, NSW
LEFT:
Emma-Lee Foy, our fi rst Indigenous
Scholarship Winner 2011, WA
(also photographed on cover)
SCHOLARSHIPS
See our pricing and scholarship flyer
or visit our website for information about
our scholarships. Over 12 partial and
full scholarships are available.
www.studentexchange.org.nz www.studentexchange.org.au 10

student exchange
application process
How to apply. We recommend you
attend one of our information evenings
before you apply. This ensures both
students and parents understand the
challenges and the benefi ts of being an
exchange student and that the program
is right for you.
Your application is what represents you to
us, our overseas partners and prospective
host families. It allows us to get a comprehensive ensive
profi le of the student and their interests.
Give yourself a few weeks to properly complete
the application with input from your parents,
your school and your doctor.
Step 1 - Download an application form from our
website or call us on 1300 135 331 (in Australia) or
0800 440 079 (in New Zealand) and we’ll organise
to send one to you.
Step 2 - Complete and return your application
form together with your $500 deposit (fully refundable
if your application is not accepted). You should be sure
to apply at least 3 - 4 months prior to departure.
See our website for up to date application deadlines.
Please note there is a separate form for the USA. Please contact our offi ce
prior to completing your USA application form.
Step 3 - We will acknowledge its receipt and liaise
with you regarding missing information or anything that’s
not clear. We will check it for eligibility.
Step 4 - One of our staff or local coordinators
will come to your home (or a mutually agreeable venue)
to meet with you and, if possible, your parents. Provided
you meet our eligibility criteria and the interview confi rms
your suitability then you will be formally notifi ed of your
acceptance on the program.
Step 5 - We’ll then send your application to
your country of choice.
Step 6 - When you’re accepted by our overseas
partner, we’ll give you access to your personalised
‘My Exchange’ online resource centre and arrange
a time and place to provide you and other students
with a comprehensive pre-departure orientation.
Step 7 - Prepare for lift off!
Step 8 - Once you’ve left home and arrived in your
host country you’ll be met by a representative of our
overseas partner, or your host family or coordinator.
While you’re away, you’ll be supported by a network
of people - your host family, your local coordinator, our
overseas partner organisation and Student Exchange
Australia New Zealand Ltd. See page 7 for more detail.
Home Coming - Once you’ve arrived home,
we’ll send you a “Welcome Home Pack” and stay
in touch with you about upcoming opportunities.
Then you start the next chapter of your life with a
unique experience to share with family and friends.
11
experienceiseverything TM

our customer service
commitment
Student Exchange Australia New Zealand Ltd aims to provide students and
parents with a high quality of service, care and support both before and during the
exchange experience to minimise the stress and maximise the rewards.
We will guarantee your country of choice
You can expect to be accepted for your country of choice
provided you meet our normal eligibility criteria and there are
places available. If, for example, you are interested in going to
Japan we will not try and convince you that Argentina would
be a better choice (or vice versa).
We will provide you with friendly and helpful advice
at every stage of the process
You can expect to receive friendly and helpful advice at all times.
We are open and honest about the challenges of being an
exchange student. We want students and parents to be well
informed before making a commitment.
All applicants are assigned a particular staff member who will
look after you from the time you apply until you return home.
All our staff have either been exchange students themselves,
have lived overseas, hosted a student, speak other languages or
have travelled extensively. They enjoy their work and want to help.
We’ve learnt that what people want is information. Our staff
communicate regularly with everyone involved to ensure you have
the information you need. If your staff member is out of the offi ce
when you call, then another staff member will be on hand to assist.
We will support students, families and volunteers
throughout the experience
You can expect us to provide a high level of support throughout
the experience. All students are allocated a Local Coordinator who
is there to assist and support whilst they are on exchange.
We are in daily communication with our overseas partners and we
commit to keeping parents fully informed of any issues or concerns
that arise whilst a student is on exchange.
We will be open and honest with students and parents and we
expect the same in return.
We provide all applicants with personalised online resources that
are available before, during and after the exchange.
We provide departure and arrival orientations for our outbound and
inbound students.
If a student encounters a problem, we work with everyone involved
to resolve the issue in an open and transparent manner.
We will deal promptly and fairly with issues and concerns
You can expect a prompt, courteous and professional response
to any question or concern.
Our offi ces are open between 9am and 5:30pm Monday to Friday
and we can be reached on 1300 135 331 (Australia) or
0800 440 079 (New Zealand).
We provide a 24/7 emergency phone service in the event of a
genuine emergency affecting the health or wellbeing of a student.
Students and parents are provided with this number prior to
departure.
During the working week we will respond to your emails within
24 hours of receipt, often much sooner.
We will actively assist you in resolving any concerns or complaints
you may have. We encourage you to be in touch with our
National Director, if we don’t meet your expectations.
Call 1300 135 331 (Australia) or 0800 440 079 (New Zealand).
We will be open and equitable in all our dealings
You can expect to receive clear and even handed information
and advice at all times.
We clearly explain what is and isn’t included in your program fee
so there are no surprises. We tell you where your money goes.
Our Prices, Terms & Conditions, Cancellation & Refund Policy,
Price Guarantee and Rules are all published on our website and
in other written materials.
We will respect your privacy and confidentiality
You can expect your personal information to at all times be kept in
secure operating environments that are not available to the public.
We will not sell, rent, share, trade or give away any information we
hold about you to anyone outside Student Exchange Australia New
Zealand Ltd and our recognised partner organisations.
We maintain strict privacy and confi dentiality policies in line with
relevant legislation in Australia and New Zealand.
www.studentexchange.org.nz
www.studentexchange.org.au
12

questions
Student Exchange Australia New Zealand Ltd
wants you to feel well informed about our
programs. Here’s a sample of our most
frequently asked questions and our answers.
If you want further info or have further
questions, please call us on 1300 135 331
(in Australia) or 0800 440 079 (in New Zealand).
Is my country of choice guaranteed
Yes. Unlike other exchange organisations we guarantee your
country of choice provided you meet all normal eligibility criteria
and there are places available.
Am I eligible to apply to go on exchange
If you meet our eligibility requirements on page 3 then, yes!,
you can apply with confi dence.
Are there language requirements
It depends where you’re going. There are language requirements
for Argentina, Austria, Germany and Italy which may be met by
2 years of study at school or an intensive short course. Denmark
requires some study of a language other than English. Japan
and France require two continuous years of language study prior
to departure. That means there are no language requirements for
over a dozen countries! Feel free to call our friendly staff on
1300 135 331 (Australia) or 0800 440 079 (New Zealand) to
discuss your particular circumstances.
Who will I stay with while on exchange
You will live with a host family. Host families are volunteers who
are eager to share their life with a teenager like you. You may live
in any part of your host country and you may have more than one
host family during your experience.
Will I have to repeat my school year when I get home
Maybe yes. Maybe no. This is a decision to be made in consultation
with your school or education authority and your parents.
It is important to speak with your school early on in the process
about how being an exchange student will impact upon your
enrolment. This may differ according to whether you participate
on a short or a long program and whether or not you have
completed your schooling before participation commences.
Does my family have to host someone while I am away
No.
But can we host a student from overseas
Yes! We would be happy to discuss hosting with your family and
arrange an interview and reference checks. We welcome enquiries
from all potential host families and would be pleased to consider
your family too.
13
experienceiseverything TM
What will my host family be like and how are they selected
Host families overseas come in all shapes and sizes – just as they
do at home. Your host family might be like your family at home
or maybe not. It could be two parents and teenage children,
or a single parent, or an older couple or a childless couple.
Whatever their confi guration, host families are motivated to open
their home to a teenager from overseas and be part of their
learning experience. Just like at home, overseas host families are
interviewed and undergo an application screening process which
complies with the requirements of your host country.
Can I go with a friend
You and your friends can apply for the same programs but you will
not be placed in the same host family. The idea of exchange is to
meet new people and immerse yourself in a new culture. Being with
your friends from home can limit this experience. You need to grab
this opportunity and make it your experience.
What support will I get while overseas
A local volunteer coordinator is assigned to every student and
will be there to assist you. If you encounter problems the local
coordinator and our partner organisation will be able to guide and
support you through the issue. Our offi ce staff will be in regular
contact with our partner organisation and with your parents to
coordinate and support your experience.
What is expected of me
Taking yourself out of your comfort zone means being responsible
and making decisions for yourself – within the context of the rules
and regulations of the program. You will mature while adapting to
life in another country. You are expected to live as a local and it will
be up to you to make adjustments in order to integrate into your
new host family and community. You will need to be open-minded
and non-judgemental, patient and fair. Being an exchange student
is a fantastic opportunity to grow.
Can I work part-time when on exchange
That depends on a few factors. First, your host country may have
laws which govern whether teenagers can work. Second, you’ll
need to take into consideration your responsibilities at school and
with your host family and friends. The aim of the exchange is to
experience life as a teenager overseas and to contribute to your
host family and school environment. If part-time work prevents you
from achieving these aims then it is not such a good idea. However,
if your peers in your host country have part-time jobs and doing so
is a normal part of that community, then it is highly likely that you
will fi nd the opportunity to earn a little pocket money.

Can I go to more than one country
If you wish to apply for a semester in one country and a
semester in another country we are happy to make the
necessary arrangements. But please be aware that there
are visa and cost considerations.
Can I speak to a former exchange student
Of course. We are happy to connect you with one of our
Returned Student Advisors. Returned Student Advisors are
former exchange students who have participated on an
exchange in your host country. They are happy to share their
experiences with you and can provide advice on all manner of
detail regarding being an exchange student to your destination.
I’m 19. Am I too old
You’re probably too old for our high school programs, but we
have some great Gap year options for you to consider.
You might like to do your bachelor degree in the US as the
recipient of a sports or academic scholarship! Or you could
work in France, Germany, Spain or the US as an Au Pair. What
about teaching English to your host family for just 15 hours per
week in exchange for food and accommodation in France or
Germany. You might fi nd what you’re looking for through our
sister organisation, Student Placement Australia New Zealand
(see page 17), or call us on 1300 135 331 (Australia) or
0800 440 079 (New Zealand) and we’ll see what we can do.
Check out www.studentplacement.com.au for details.
How do I pay
1. A $500 deposit is payable on application, which is fully
refundable if your application is not successful.
2. The balance of the program fee is payable in installments
commencing on acceptance to the program.
Submission of
application
Acceptance of
application for
Early Bird Discount &
Scholarship applicants
6 x monthly
installments
Where does the money go
Student Exchange Australia New Zealand
Ltd is a ‘not-for-profi t’ organisation which
means there are no shareholders to
Recruitment
whom profi ts can be distributed.
Care and & & and selection
support of of
of students
We are ‘fee for service’ which means
students in in
the hosting
that program fees are used to cover
Getting
country
students to to
the costs of providing the program,
& and from their
destination
both here and abroad. As a rough guide
program costs break down as follows:
• 25% of program costs occur before
you leave and go toward the recruitment and selection of students
for their overseas experience. These include professional staff in
Australia and New Zealand, processing of applications, student and
family interviews, resource materials, orientation and assistance
with visas and a contribution to general overheads.
• 27% of program costs go toward getting students to and from
their destination. These include domestic and international airfares
with recognised airlines, airport transfers, insurance and processing
of tickets.
• 48% of program costs arise in the hosting country and go
toward the care and support of students. These include full time
professional support staff, recruitment and selection of volunteer
host families, recruitment and selection of local coordinators,
provision of arrival orientations, development of resource materials
and facilitation of school enrolments, etc.
A study 1 by the National Centre for Social and Economic Modelling
found that it costs up to A$433 a week or over A$22,500 a year
to keep a teenager at home. Compare this to the cost of our
participation fee and the value of our programs is immediately clear.
A student exchange program is an investment for life.
Experience is everything.
1 Source: AMP NATSEM Income and Wealth Report December 2007
conducted by the National Centre for Social and Economic Modelling.
$500 deposit
Fully refundable
if your application
is not successful
Acceptance of
application for
all other applicants
3 x monthly
installments
My 11 month Student Exchange trip to Brazil has had a big
impact on my future because it has allowed me to experience a
culture totally different from my own Australian background. I lived
with a family I had never met before and now I can’t wait to visit them
again. I now have much more confi dence in myself and I know that
I can adapt to whatever happens to me in life. I have learnt another
language (Portuguese) and have now studied and lived in a foreign
country, not dependant on my parents - apart from money. I did it on
my own and I loved it and if I can do that, then I can do anything.
Keith McCann, WA, Brazil
www.studentexchange.org.nz www.studentexchange.org.au 14

exchange student
While you are contemplating becoming an exchange student,
there are students somewhere overseas who are excitedly
anticipating their experience in Australia or New Zealand.
Hosting an overseas student is a great way to experience
student exchange without even leaving home. We are always
on the lookout for good host families.
The Stuart Family
Victoria, Andrew and their two children from the Northern Beaches
of NSW, hosted Simon from Denmark.
“It’s been a fantastic experience so far... It’s
been great having
an older brother for our young kids. Simon has been a fantastic role
model...Simon helps around the house a lot. One of the fi rst things he
said to us during the fi rst couple of days he was here was what should
my chores be I was delighted to hear him
say that.”
Victoria, Host Mum
“These students are coming out, they’re here, and they’re going to
live with someone. If you think you’re a great family and will be able to
look after another family member - It’s great for them, it’s great for you,
everyone benefi ts. Give it a go, there’s only been benefi ts.”
Andrew, Host Dad
Interested in hosting
Being a host family is a fun, rewarding and challenging experience.
Host families come in all shapes and sizes, backgrounds and
ages. Retired couples, single parents with or without children,
couples with primary school children, couples with teenagers and
a family pet… all can apply to become a host family and all can
benefi t in many ways from the exchange experience.
To learn more about hosting a student at your place, view videos
at www.studentexchange.org.au/host, call us on 1300 135 331
(in Australia) or 0800 440 079 (in New Zealand), have a chat and
we’ll send you an information pack.
VIDEO LIBRARY
Lio, Germany
Luca, Italy
MEET OUR STUDENTS
Check out our website to learn more about the students
who are soon to arrive in Australia and New Zealand. We have
teenage boys and girls from Europe, Japan, USA and Latin
America on their way for 2-3 months and 5 or 10 months.
The Arrow Family
View our online
video library
on our website
“Becoming a Host family for an international student has been
much more than we expected. We thought it would be great
for our kids to learn a little about another language and maybe
something about another country. Instead, we gained another
family member and some great new friends, her parents from
Germany. We get to show off our country and learn so much
about hers. What a fantastic experience for all of us.” Melissa,
Host Mum
The Smith Family
“We migrated to Oz/WA fi ve years ago...and us now having a
foreign exchange student has made us fall in love with Australia
(WA) all over again! There is so much to see, do and experience
here down under.... and you can really show-off and relish in all the
diversity (in your own state) here in Australia. These experiences
with our exchange student have created bonds and memories of a
lifetime! Thank you Student Exchange Australia New Zealand
for this wonderful opportunity!” Stephany, Host Mum
15
experienceiseverything TM

usiness
relationships
Departments of Education
Student Exchange Australia New Zealand Ltd is registered
as an exchange provider with Departments of Education and
other regulatory authorities in every state and territory across
Australia. Registration entails meeting strict standards in the
provision of care and support to participants. We maintain
regular communication with departmental offi cials to ensure
compliance with all regulatory requirements.
• NSW Department of Education and Training
• QLD Department of Education and the Arts
• Victorian Registration and Qualifi cations Authority (VRQA)
• Tasmanian Qualifi cations Authority (TQA)
• SA Department of Education and Children’s Services
• WA Department of Education and Training
• NT Department of Employment, Education and Training
• ACT Department of Education and Training
Student Exchange Australia New Zealand Ltd is also registered
with the New Zealand Ministry of Education. Student Exchange
Australia New Zealand Ltd has agreed to observe and be bound by
the Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Students
published by the Minister of Education. Copies of the Code are
available on request from Student Exchange Australia New Zealand
Ltd or from the New Zealand Ministry of Education website at
www.minedu.govt.nz
Council of Australian Student Exchange
Organisations (CASEO)
Student Exchange Australia New Zealand Ltd is a founding member
of the Council of Australian Student Exchange Organisations
(CASEO). CASEO acts to promote the importance and educational
value of student exchange programs and seeks improvements in
the policy and regulatory framework. CASEO aims to provide a
coherent and unifi ed voice on key issues affecting
the industry. Our National Director, Nick Lorentzen,
was the founding President of CASEO.
www.caseo.org.au
STA Travel
Student Exchange Australia New Zealand Ltd works exclusively with
STA Travel for all our travel needs. STA Travel is a world leader in
youth travel. With a global network of offi ces their staff are always
close at hand. STA Travel believes that travel is the best education.
www.statravel.com.au
www.statravel.co.nz
Australian Federation of Modern
Language Teachers Associations
The AFMLTA supports Student Exchange Australia and New
Zealand’s Language Scholarships and members of state MLTAs
assist in the selection process by interviewing short-listed
scholarship applicants in their target language.
www.afmlta.asn.au
Access Prepaid Worldwide
Multi-currency Cash Passport enables cardholders to load both
foreign currencies and Australian and New Zealand Dollars onto
one card and can be reloaded as many times as they want during
the life of the card, within the applicable limits. Whether the
cardholder is travelling to one destination or to a number of different
destinations, the Multi-currency Cash Passport is the better way to
carry travel money.
www.cashpassport.com
Carbon Reduction Institute
Australian Federation of
Modern Language Teachers
Associations
The Carbon Reduction Institute (CRI) is committed to protecting
our environment by encouraging businesses to reduce their carbon
emissions. Student Exchange Australia New Zealand Ltd works with
the CRI to reduce our CO2 emissions and encourage our students
to take a responsible approach to climate change.
www.noco2.com.au
New Zealand Council for Intercultural
Education
Student Exchange Australia New Zealand Ltd is a member of the
New Zealand Council for Intercultural Education.
www.studentexchange.org.nz www.studentexchange.org.au 16

student
placement
australia
new zealand
Overseas opportunities for
when you’ve left school
If you are too old for a high school student exchange
program or if you have older brothers and sisters who might
be interested in gaining overseas experience then our sister
organisation, Student Placement Australia New Zealand
Pty Ltd, may have a program to suit. We help facilitate the
placement of young people who have left school into work,
training and study programs overseas.
Gap year options available:
Sports Scholarships USA
Study USA
Live & Learn - France or Germany
Au Pair - USA, France, Germany and Spain
Other programs:
Work & Travel USA
Internship/Trainee - USA
Free Information Sessions
You might like to attend one of our Free Information Sessions
to learn more about our Gap year options… or attend an info
session online. Check out www.studentplacement.com.au
for more details on programs, prices and info sessions.
INFO SESSIONS ONLINENE
Student Placement Australia New Zealand Pty Ltd
(Incorporated in Australia).
AUSTRALIA
PO Box 1420,
Mona Vale NSW 1660
Australia
Phone 1300 135 331
www.studentplacement.com.au
ABN 81 101 489 052
NEW ZEALAND
Suite 2590, PO Box 83000
Wellington 6440,
New Zealand
Phone 0800-440079
www.studentplacement.co.nz
Age
Program Description
GAP YEAR OPTIONS
14 - 19 High School Programs
16 + Sports Scholarships USA
This program allows Aussie and Kiwi students to utilise
their sporting skills to gain a university education in the
USA, often for less than it costs to study in Australia or
New Zealand.
16 + Study USA
The program gives you access to a wide range of
generous academic scholarships from a large number
of universities across the United States.
18 - 25 Live & Learn
Spend up to 3 months in France or Germany;
living with a host family and helping them learn English.
Great stepping stone for a working holiday.
Participants will live with a host family in France or Germany
and receive free board and lodging. In return they will
spend 15 hours a week (weekends free) teaching or
conversing in English with members of the family. You
can attend a language school or travel around your host
country on weekends but you will need to make all your
own arrangements and cover all costs. This is a program
for adults, so you will have the freedom to meet friends, do
sports, go out in the evenings, etc. But you also have the
obligation to behave responsibly and respect your family.
This is a great option for Gap year students before pursuing
a working holiday.
18 - 30 Au Pair
Spend 12 months in the US, France, Germany or Spain;
living with a host family and caring for their children.
Pocket money included plus the chance to attend
Evening College.
* Please see relevant program information page and website for full eligibility details.
17
experienceiseverything TM

Eligibility
Program Features
If you’re enrolled in your final year of high school, you’re eligible for
our high school programs. See pages 3 and 6 for details.
You must be interested in beginning or continuing an undergraduate
career in the US and meet the following eligibility criteria:
• Be between 16 and 26 years of age.
• Practice soccer, tennis, golf, or basketball.
• Fit in to one of the following categories:
– Current High School student.
– High School graduate.
– Currently attending university (classes can be transferred).
– University graduate (classes can be transferred).
• Attend an International Showcase event in the USA where your skills and
abilities will be assessed
Study USA is open to students interested in beginning or continuing an
undergraduate career in the US and who meet the following eligibility criteria:
• Current High School student.
• High School graduate.
• Currently attending university (classes can be transferred).
• University graduate (classes can be transferred).
• International Students are eligible to apply but the granting of visas is at the
discretion of the US consulates.
• Are open minded and fl exible.
You are eligible to participate if you meet the following requirements:
• in good physical and mental health
• are between 18 and 25 years old
• are mature, open-minded and ready to learn
• have good organisational skills and patience
• have a genuine interest in learning about other cultures and languages
• are fl exible, resourceful, and adaptable to new and unfamiliar situations
You are eligible to participate if you meet the following requirements:
• Are 18 through 26 (USA) or 27 (France & Spain) or 30 (Germany) years of age
• Enjoy children aged 3 months to 12 years, and in most cases have at least 200
hours experience in caring for children (babysitting, etc.)
• Successfully pass a selection interview
• Successfully pass a psychometric test (US only)
• Enjoy helping children grow and develop, and are willing to enrich the lives
of your host family by sharing your culture and traditions
• Are a responsible person who is willing to make a one year commitment to
experience your host country’s culture by living as a member of a local family,
and providing up to 45 hours of child care assistance each week
• Have completed high school
• Are conversant in English, in good health, energetic and enthusiastic,
non-smoker and are a licensed driver (not required in Spain)
www.studentplacement.co.nz
www.studentplacement.com.au 18

Student Exchange
Australia New Zealand Ltd
(Incorporated in Australia).
AUSTRALIA
Postal Address
PO Box 1420
Mona Vale NSW 1660
Australia
Phone 1300 135 331
Fax 02 9997 0701
www.studentexchange.org.au
ABN 49 101 489 356
NEW ZEALAND
Postal Address
Suite 2590
PO Box 83000
Wellington 6440
New Zealand
Phone 0800 440 079
Fax 0800 440 079
www.studentexchange.org.nz
20
The Australian manufacture of the paper used for this Student Exchange Australia New Zealand Ltd catalogue meets the international standard ISO 14001 for
environmental management. This paper is certified under the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification Scheme (PEFC) which assures consumers that the
utilised forestry products can be traced from a certified, responsibly managed forest through all stages of processing and production by a chain of custody process.
experienceiseverything TM