FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How much money will I need?
Though this varies from student to student, we recommend that you budget approximately $75 to $125/week for spending money. This will vary depending on your transportation costs to/from school each day and if you buy lunches at school. Living and travelling abroad can be more expensive than in North America and spending money should be discussed in detail with your parents before you depart.

Will I have support while abroad?
YES! GPI's affiliate organizations (JFIE and AIIU) will provide assistance and your host school is available for support too.

Will I be able to travel alone while I am abroad?
NO. All travelling must be pre-authorized via a travel request form. This will be further discussed at your orientation.

Can I decide to stay longer once I am there?
NO. You will be on a student visa and you must return home at the end of the period stated on the visa. There are no exceptions.

What are the benefits of being an exchange student?
Cultural tolerance, a broadened world view, new friends along with learning another language is only a start to the benefits. You will become a stronger academic student and this opportunity may provide you with credit for language courses, electives, Math and/or Socials (this is not a guarantee and is up to each participant to discuss possible credits with their home school).

How do I apply to become an exchange student?
Complete and return a Preliminary Application along with an essay stating why you are interested in being an exchange student. Send in a $50.00 non-refundable application fee. If you are applying for a Scholarship to Japan also send in a teacher/principal recommendation.
Head office will send you an Application booklet. This is quite detailed and needs to be filled out carefully. Your Application booklet will be sent to our associate organization. This will help them select your host school and host family.
Shortly after you submit your application, you and your parents will be invited to participate in an interview arranged through your local GPI representative. PLEASE NOTE: Due to geographical locations, the interview may be either in person or via telephone. During the interview you will be asked questions which will give us an idea of your motivation and commitment to our Exchange Program.

When will I know if I have been accepted?
Head office will notify you once your application has been approved by GPI and the receiving/affiliate organization.

How much is the program?
The low cost of our Exchange Program is highly dependent on reciprocity. This means that if your school voluntarily host an international student you too will qualify to be hosted by a volunteer school. We also strongly encourage your family to host an international student in exchange for you being hosted by a volunteer family abroad.

Please contact Global Partners for more information info@gpicanada.com

Reciprocity helps lower the overall cost of the program.
If you attend a school that does not accept exchange students the cost is higher, and you will only be eligible for our Non-Reciprocal Program.