Foreign Exchange Student Programs?

Question

I am looking to go to Japan and am fourteen almost fifteen. I will be fifteen in early June. Does anyone recommend any programs or have any ideas or tips for me. When you apply what are usually the rules do they favor this person over that person. Do looks or personalty matter. Almost anything would be very helpful. All program websites have provided almost no information.

Answer 1

If you are looking to become an exchange student, you are just at the right age to begin the process! I recommend your junior year of high school to do the actual exchange.

Many programs offer Japan! Some of the more reliable ones are AFS, Aspect, Rotary and YFU. All of these have exchanges to Japan! Also, ask your school counselor for a recommendation as a program is only as good as its local representatives. Rotary is the cheapest, but most competitive.

You should apply early -- especially if you are also applying for scholarships. If you want to go 09-10, begin the application process mid-way through next semester.

Looks do NOT matter in being selected, however personality does. Grades will matter somewhat, more if you're applying for scholarships. You have to be able to prove that you can handle academics, but you do NOT need to be a straight A student. A well rounded student with some demonstrated language/cultural diversity background is desired.

When interviewing potential students, I always look for openness, independence and maturity. Here's a hint -- if your parents are in the interview with you (and that's OK), don't look at them before answering a question! That is a big red flag that you are too dependent upon them to be away from home!

For some additional info on being an exchange student, check out this online community! http://www.exchangestudentworld.com/

Good luck!

Answer 2

You should take up courses in either Informatics or Engineering if you want to stand a chance to get a job there.

Presumebly, for a foreign student to obtain a study permit in japan, you are not really required to be fluent in Japanese but you must have both great personality (Looks does not matter, as long as you have a great personality to begin with) and willingness to learn.

However, if you're looking to work and live in japan, then you should refer to my answer here:

http://sg.answers.yahoo.com/question/ind...