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Programs at a glance 2

Eligibility 3

Free information evenings & online sessions 4

Student exchange programs 5-6

Safety and wellbeing 7

Online student resources 8

Student Exchange Australia New Zealand Ltd 9-10

How do I apply? 11

Our customer service commitment 12

Frequently asked questions 13-14

Host an exchange student 15

Business relationships 16

Gap year options 17-18

1

Prog

Eligi

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Whether you’re interested in a short summer program,

a semester program or an academic year program you’ll

fi nd 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.

We have many years experience in delivering high quality

programs. All our staff have either been exchange students,

have lived, worked or studied overseas. They understand the

challenges involved and are committed to providing you

with a high level of service and support throughout.

Disclaimer: the information contained in this brochure is correct at the time of printing,

January 2012. Student Exchange Australia New Zealand Ltd and Student Placement Australia

New Zealand Pty Ltd reserve the right to change program specifi cations at any time.

contentscontents

COVER IMAGE: Emma-Lee Foy (bottom right), on exchange in The Netherlands, our fi rst Indigenous Scholarship Winner 2011, WA

www.studentexchange.org.auwww.studentexchange.org.nz 2

Age Program Description Program Features Page

Secondary Student Exchange Programs

14 -19

Summer Explorer ProgramShort 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 ProgramSpend 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 ProgramSpend 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 USAUse 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 USAThe 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 & LearnSpend 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

programsprogramsat a glance

experienceiseverythingTM3

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 LifeBeing 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.

Challenge YourselfPlease 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.

EligibilityYou 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.

TMis everythingexperienceexperience

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.

Gap year optionsIf you are fi nishing 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.

selfand studying overseas is easy:

www.studentexchange.org.auwww.studentexchange.org.nz 4

evenings &evenings &online sessionsonline sessions

information

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.

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.

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.

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.

Invitation

REGISTER NOWOWW

Free Information Evenings Student Exchange Australia New Zealand Ltd holds over 60 free information evenings across Australia and New Zealand each year.

uestions in person.

Go to our website

experienceiseverythingTM5

Benefi tsAvoid 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 confi dence. 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 benefi ts. You will gain from the experience in ways that will help your future study and career choices.

VisasOur 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.

Our Summer Explorer Programs offer the chance to be an exchange student without interrupting your schooling at home.

SummerExplorerPrograms

DurationYou can go for 2 – 3 months

DestinationsYou can go to France, Canada, Germany, Italy, Japan, Spain, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Australia and New Zealand

DepartureStudents 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, FranceView our online video library on our website

VIDEO LIBRARYRARAR

www.studentexchange.org.auwww.studentexchange.org.nz 6

Benefi ts 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 Confi dence. 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

VisasAll 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.

PricesFor details on prices, application deadlines and departure dates, please refer to our pricing and scholarship fl yer or visit our website.

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.

Semester & Year Programs

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

experienceiseverythingTM

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 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 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 StructureAll 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 HandbooksAll 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.

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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.

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www.studentexchange.org.auwww.studentexchange.org.nz

My Exchange – A Personalised Online Resource & Reporting Centre for StudentsOnce 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.

8

exclusiveexclusiveto our applicants

experienceiseverythingTM9

Our OrganisationStudent 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 StaffAll 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 CoordinatorsOur 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 CommitmentWe 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 CO2Student 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.

australia new zealandstudent exchangestudent exchange

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 everythingTM.

View our online video library on our website

VIDEO LIBRARYRARARY

www.studentexchange.org.auwww.studentexchange.org.nz 10

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.

Rawdon Dalrymple AOFay Wilmerding

Scholarship AwardsStudent Exchange Australia New Zealand Ltd is proud to offer Scholarship Awards in the names of the following distinguished individuals:

See our pricing and scholarship fl yer or visit our website for information about our scholarships. Over 12 partial and full scholarships are available.

SCHOLARSHIPSS

TOP RIGHT: Georgia Bryers, IndigenousScholarship Winner 2011, NZ

ABOVE: Grace Casey, IndigenousScholarship Winner 2012, NSW

LEFT: Emma-Lee Foy, our fi rst IndigenousScholarship Winner 2011, WA(also photographed on cover)

TGS

AGS

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experienceiseverythingTM11

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.

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 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.

application processstudent exchangestudent exchange

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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 confi dentiality

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.

12

commitmentour customer service our customer service

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.

experienceiseverythingTM13

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.

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.

questionsquestionsStudent 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).

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www.studentexchange.org.auwww.studentexchange.org.nz 14

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.

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 whom profi ts can be distributed. We are ‘fee for service’ which means that program fees are used to cover the costs of providing the program, 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 study1 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.

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

$500 depositFully refundable

if your applicationis not successful

Submission of application

Acceptance of application for

Early Bird Discount & Scholarship applicants

Acceptance ofapplication for

all other applicants

6 x monthlyinstallments

3 x monthlyinstallments

Recruitment & selection of students

Care & support of students in the hosting country

Getting students to & from their destination

Recruitment and selection of students

Care and support of students in the hosting country

Getting students to and from their destination

Keith McCann, WA, Brazil

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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

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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.

The Arrow Family“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

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.

Lio, Germany Luca, Italy

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.

View our online video library on our websiteMEET OUR STUDENTSDENTEN

n hosting?

VIDEO LIBRARYRARAR

www.studentexchange.org.auwww.studentexchange.org.nz 16

Departments of EducationStudent 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

New Zealand Council for Intercultural EducationStudent Exchange Australia New Zealand Ltd is a member of the New Zealand Council for Intercultural Education.

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.auwww.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 WorldwideMulti-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 InstituteThe 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

relationshipsrelationshipsbusiness

Australian Federation of Modern Language Teachers Associations

experienceiseverythingTM17

Age Program Description

GAP YEAR OPTIONS

14 - 19 High School Programs

16 + Sports Scholarships USAThis 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 USAThe 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 & LearnSpend 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.

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* Please see relevant program information page and website for full eligibility details.

Overseas opportunities for when you’ve left schoolIf 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 ONLINENEE

Student Placement Australia New Zealand Pty Ltd (Incorporated in Australia).

AUSTRALIAPO Box 1420, Mona Vale NSW 1660AustraliaPhone 1300 135 331 www.studentplacement.com.auABN 81 101 489 052

NEW ZEALANDSuite 2590, PO Box 83000Wellington 6440, New ZealandPhone 0800-440079www.studentplacement.co.nz

www.studentplacement.com.au 18

Eligibility Program Features

If you’re enrolled in your fi nal 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

experienceiseverythingTM20

Student ExchangeAustralia New Zealand Ltd

(Incorporated in Australia).

AUSTRALIA

Postal AddressPO Box 1420

Mona Vale NSW 1660Australia

Phone 1300 135 331 Fax 02 9997 0701

www.studentexchange.org.au

ABN 49 101 489 356

NEW ZEALAND

Postal AddressSuite 2590

PO Box 83000Wellington 6440

New Zealand

Phone 0800 440 079Fax 0800 440 079

www.studentexchange.org.nz

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 certifi ed under the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certifi cation Scheme (PEFC) which assures consumers that the

utilised forestry products can be traced from a certifi ed, responsibly managed forest through all stages of processing and production by a chain of custody process.

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