Student exchange program

A student exchange program is a program in which students from a secondary school (high school) or higher education study abroad at one of their institution's partner institutions. A student exchange program may involve international travel, but does not necessarily require the student to study outside their home country. Foreign exchange programs provide students with an opportunity to study in another country and experience a different environment. These programs provide opportunities that may not be available in the participant's home country, such as learning about the history and culture of other countries and meeting new friends to enrich their personal development. International exchange programs are also effective to challenge students to develop a global perspective. The term "exchange" means that a partner institution accepts a student, but it does not necessarily mean that the student has to find a counterpart from the other institution with whom to exchange. Exchange students live with a host family or in designated accommodation such as a hostel, an apartment, or a student lodging. Costs for the program vary by country and institution. Participants fund their participation through scholarships, loans, or self-funding. Student exchanges became popular after World War II, intended to increase the participants' understanding and tolerance of other cultures, as well as improving their language skills and broadening their social horizons. Student exchanges also increased further after the end of the Cold War. An exchange student typically stays in the host country for a period of 6 to 12 months; however, exchange students may opt to stay for one semester at a time. International students or those on study abroad programs may stay in the host country for several years. Some exchange programs also offer academic credit. Students of study abroad programs aim to develop a global perspective and cultural understanding by challenging...