How to prepare your exchange student for school

Students are strongly encouraged to take a full course load, including English and either US History or American Government. Your local high school may also require students to take certain subjects such as math, science or physical education. This depends on the high school.

Your student's school back home is likely very different from their American school. This could be the first time they have the option of selecting their own classes, so they may need some guidance during that process.

Your IEC and school may also give advice about course levels. For example, a science class may be available in regular, honors or advanced placement. Exchange students are not familiar with these levels or their requirements, so ask the guidance counselor to provide advice about their level of difficulty. When helping your student select classes, keep their English level in mind

Many students do not receive credit in their native countries for their study in the US and must repeat the school year at home. However, students from some countries such as Austria, Italy, Norway and Spain may obtain credit if they fulfill certain requirements. The process to receive academic credit for an exchange year in the US is called convalidation.

For students who are convalidating, grade level placement should be guaranteed at the time of school enrollment, and the student should meet with their guidance counselor before school starts in order to schedule the required classes. Ask your IEC about any specific convalidation requirements for your student.