For questions not covered, please email us at info@nziiu.co.nz or free phone on 0800 XCHANGE (924264) from NZ.

Can I choose the country I wish to go to?

Yes, you can. NZIIU has affiliates in a wide range of countries.

Is there any particular region in my chosen country you send me to? Can I choose that too?

Not usually. It is up to our affiliate in that country to find a host family for you and from there your school and region are selected. Our main priority is to match a family to your interests. Mention any special interests you have, sports you play, hobbies you have in your application and then we will endeavour to find a suitable family for you. However, there is not a bottomless supply of families wishing to host, so you have to be prepared to fit in with the family you are given.

Can I choose which kind of school I attend?

No. Most of our students go to mainstream schools but some go to exclusive private schools. There are benefits to both situations. Sometimes the school is chosen first and sometimes the family.

Can I go with a friend?

You can go at the same time as a friend and to the same country but we always separate people. Being together would be pleasant but it would limit the benefits for both students as one would tend to lean on the other.

How long do applications take?

The deadlines for applications are determined by how long it takes to obtain placements and visas in the country you want to go to. This varies quite a bit but it is best to apply as soon as you can. Most applications take around three months to complete, including the interview. After that we usually need three or more months to obtain a placement. Have a look at the information sheets for the country you want to go to.

How are host families chosen?

Very carefully in every country. The procedures vary slightly but our affiliates always interview families to determine their motivation in wanting to host and to see what facilities they can offer. In almost all countries, host families are not paid anything to look after you. This means that they are usually kind and generous people who are happy to accept you as a member of their family.

What if something goes wrong?

We place you in situations where we think you can flourish. We expect you to function as a member of the host family and host school and to help you, you have the support of your family, your local coordinator and often someone in your school. Occasionally things go wrong and emergency help is available.

Can I sit NZ exams in another country?

Not usually. We advise you to work hard in your new school and try to pass their exams. However, most people find adapting to a new culture, new language, new family and new school a sufficient challenge. Exam passes in another country are not usually transferable to NZ. We often provide certificates of participation to students who have completed time on exchange to help them enter tertiary courses when they return.

Are there limits on how many students can go to another country?

The only country for which we have quotas is the USA. These are rarely filled.

Do I need to speak the local language?

The most common reason students give for going on exchange is a passion for the language and culture of another country. Knowing the language is vital if you want to go to Japan or France and very helpful if you want to go to other countries. We advise you to start learning the language as soon as you apply to go on exchange. The sooner you start, the more you will understand when you arrive, the sooner you will start to communicate effectively and the sooner you will feel comfortable.

How long is an exchange?

You can go for six weeks to France after NCEA finishes and we can arrange slightly longer exchanges in France and some other countries. Most exchanges are for one or two semesters. Check the information sheet for the country you wish to visit.

Can I tour around while I’m there?

Exchange is a cultural experience inside a family and a school. It is not a tourist experience. You’ll never get the same opportunity again but you can always come back as a tourist. Some host families travel a lot and are generous in taking students with them. Other families stay put.