Such a student exchange can be quite expensive. Especially if you choose a distant destination, such as bspw. Australia, interested. However, many organizations offer so-called scholarships, which are financial support for your student exchange. It is therefore worthwhile to find out more about these options.
The scholarship types
- Most organizations offer partial and full scholarships. In the case of a partial scholarship, you will be reimbursed for part of the exchange costs, which can sometimes be several thousand euros. In the case of a full scholarship, the organization will cover the full program costs for the high school year.
- Excellent academic performance is not always a criterion for the award of a scholarship. With a social scholarship your school grades are not as important as your social commitment. It is important to have as much to show here as possible. Whether you are a sports coach of a children's club or volunteer or give private lessons. What counts here is that you do social work and are rewarded for it.
- Even a creative scholarship is not awarded according to scores. Convince your organization with a self-written application song, a self-made video or a photo montage. Here you can develop freely.
The facts
- The most popular host country is the USA, followed by Canada.
- Most scholarships are awarded based on the family's financial situation and not on school grades.
- You can apply for funding for your year abroad through the Schuler-Auslands-BAfoG (Student Abroad Grant Program). Unlike other BAfoG grants, the student BAfoG does not have to be repaid.
Good to know
It is not easy to obtain a scholarship. But if you are socially or creatively engaged, your chances of getting a scholarship for your student exchange increase. The application process is also not without. But with diligence, motivation and these tips, getting a scholarship is not impossible.
Tip 1: Try to start your student exchange at the beginning of the year (winter departure).
Tip 2: Decide for a more "exotic" country like z.B. India, Czech Republic or Bolivia.
Tip 3: Apply for multiple scholarships at once!
Tip 4: Combine different types of scholarships such as merit scholarships, scholarships abroad, need-based scholarships.
Your student exchange will be a great adventure with many exciting experiences, for which the effort of a scholarship is worthwhile.