Did you fall behind on school work whilst on exchange?

Question

I'm thinking about going on a student exchange for next year, but I'm not sure for how long I want to go, or for that matter, where to. (there are so many great places, lol)

But, I was wondering, for anyone who has been on exchange, when you came back, how behind were you in school work.

I'm very good at school and would really like to go abroad, but I don't want to miss out on or fall behind on any school work, exams, etc.

So I would like to know if you fell behind, how you caught up or how you stayed up to date with work while you were away.

Thanks so much!

Answer 1

You don't say whether you are in high school or college, so I'll answer this from a high school point of view.

First, however, this is VERY late to be deciding you want to go next year! You may not be able to get a year or first semester exchange (although you can certainly contact various organizations to find out).

As far as school work, you are likely to have to double up on an English class as well as American History and/or American Government -- whichever of those two you are scheduled to take during the time you wish to be gone. Most  American schools will give you social studies, foreign language and independent study credit for your exchange year. Additionally, depending upon what courses you take there, you may also receive math and science credit. You'll need to talk to your school counselor to be sure. Far from being behind, you'll probably find yourself ahead of your class in many areas as most schools around the world are much more difficult academically than they are in the U.S.

I know that the SAT tests are available overseas. I'm sure the ACTs are also.