Student exchange programs? (Japan)?

Question

I'm planning on going to Japan for a semester next year (meaning I'd have to sign up soon probably), and my mom wants me to use Rotary. I heard that you can't always go to the country you want - is this true? I also know AFS, and Intrax Study Abroad (which is somewhat expensive but AFS is better). I wanna go for a fall semester because in my school (in the US) there are important tests in the spring, so like I said, I'll have to sign up too. Know any other ones with a fairly decent price, that the age you can go is 15? (Most are 16-18, but I wanna go when I'm 15)

Answer 1

I recently just came back from exchange in Tokyo Japan. I was 14 when i went and i don't think it would make and difference if you were any older. Japan is really different. Be prepared for the culture shock! You have to be really tough. Still it was an awesome experience. You should love it!!  

Answer 2

Well, I would prefer to use AFS personally, even if the age is 16-18. To go to Japan costs at least $3,000... It's a huge cost, and if you're not willing to pay that, start raising money for exchanging. To go to Japan will require a decent amount of Japanese, which I'm assuming you have. I have looked into going to Japan, and I hope you know about it's culture, because it's one of my pet peeves when someone goes to Japan because of Anime, and not because of it's language and culture.  If you want to go on a scholarship, you will most likely not go to Japan. Just raise the money through maybe babysitting, mowing lawns, chores, odd jobs. You'll find the money to pay off half by half a year of it. Have you also considered taking summer semester of it? It sounds a lot easier than messing up your schedule for your next year. I suggest also taking it during your Sophomore-Junior Summer, since by then, you'll probably be ready. If you're a freshman, then even if you start now, you won't go until next year, which you won't be old enough for. I suggest AFS ultimately though.