When will my student arrive?
Exchange students arriving during the summer traditionally attend one |of our EF-sponsored orientation programs— EF International High School Camp and EF Welcome Days—in the New York area before traveling to their host families. Students travel to America based upon their school start date, ranging from mid-July to the end of August. Students arriving in the second semester will fly directly from their home country to their host family’s home, arriving between the end of December and the end of January.
1- Arrival week determined based on school start date
2- Flight details are confirmed about one week before departure
3- Departure from home country
4- Travel to host family
When will my student arrive?
We recommend students arrive around one week before school starts. Our EF office staff will reach out to you or your IEC to help you select the most appropriate week for your student's arrival based upon your school's start date and personal preference. Flight information will be available about one week before the flight departs, at which point you, your student and your IEC will be informed of the travel details. As with any kind of travel, last-minute changes due to flight delays, missed connections, weather, mechanical problems, etc., are possible.
When will I get my student's flight details?
Prior to the arrival day, your family will be sent an email and/or called with your student’s flight itinerary. You should meet your student at the airport. We suggest you call the airline or check their website to make sure your student’s flight is on time.
What should I do for the airport welcome?
Make that first encounter at the airport exciting! Bring a sign and take photos. Try not to speak too quickly. Your student will probably be jet-lagged, nervous and hesitant about their English. Put your student at ease by smiling, laughing and showing you’re looking forward to the exchange. Remember that your student will also be very tired and may take a nap in the car or when you get home.
What happens during the Welcome Orientation?
In the first few weeks after your student has arrived, you may join other families and exchange students at a Welcome Orientation. The meeting is mandatory for students and strongly suggested for you and your family. Often combined with a cookout or party, the Welcome Orientation is an opportunity for your IEC to see how the start of your exchange is going and to answer any questions you or your student may have. It's also a great time for students living in the same area to connect and develop relationships, while giving you a chance to get to know other host families.
Find the right exchange student for your family
Does your family have any hobbies or interests that you'd like to share with an exchange student? Are you looking to learn more about a particular region of the world? Consider some of these topics and start browsing student profiles today.
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Before your student arrives
Preparation is key: how to make sure your family is ready
How to start building your relationship before your student arrives
Add a personal touch to your student's room
How to prepare your exchange student for school
Using family mealtimes to get to know each
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Life with your student
Who to talk to if you have a question
Participation is important: help your student get involved locally
Overcoming challenges and misunderstandings with your student
Navigating religious differences and expectations
My student is struggling academically: how can I help?
American traditions every exchange student wants to try
5 ways to enjoy fall as a family
10 ways to get in the Halloween spirit
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