There’s a lot to explore and experience in life, in your own country, hometown or school. But unless you move out of your comfort zone you will not be able to understand the benefits of living abroad. International student exchange programmes are one of the best ways to experience international education without spending a lot of time away from your native place.
Going abroad as an exchange student will give you a big leap in your future goals with a life-enriching experience. You will improve your language skills, gain independence and develop a perspective on various worldly matters. International student exchange programmes are an opportunity of a lifetime.
What Is International Student Identity Card (ISIC)
ISIC is the only internationally recognized and accepted proof of authentic student status having a history of over 67 years. It has been endorsed by UNESCO since 1968, the card is recognized by universities, academic institutions, student unions, national governments, financial institutions and ministries of education around the world. Using this card, students can gain preferential and discounted access to products, services and experiences relevant to all aspects of a student’s life, from software licenses and cinema access, to bookstores, public transport, cafes and eateries.
What Are Student Exchange Programmes?
A student exchange programme is a study programme in which students pursue education at one of the international institutions for six months to one year. An exchange programme is different from a usual study abroad programme or student exchange. It may involve international travel and study for some time, but does not necessarily require the student to remain outside his or her native country. Grab your ISIC Student Card before leaving for your student exchange programme abroad.
What Are The Types Of Study Abroad Programmes?
- Short-Term International Student Exchange Programmes
A short-term exchange runs from one week to three months and does not mandate students to study at any college or institution in particular. Students are subjected to an intensive course which will improve their knowledge of other cultures, societies and languages.
Often recognized as a summer/intensive or cultural exchange programme, these concentrate on housing, language skills, service to the community, and cultural activities.
High school and university students may apply to different government or non-governmental organizations coordinating the applications for the programmes.
- Long-Term International Student Exchange Programmes
A long-term exchange is one that takes six to ten months or one full year to complete. Participants in their host countries attend high school or college through a student visa. Usually, a J-1 cultural exchange visa or a F-1 foreign student visa is issued to guest students going to the U.S. It is hoped that students will unite with the host family and immerse themselves in the local community and surroundings. They are required to integrate this information into their daily lives upon their return to their home country, as well as to give their sponsors a briefing on their experience. Many international student exchange programmes, at least at an elementary level, expect students to be able to speak the language of the host country. Several programmes require students to complete standardized tests for English language before being accepted into a programme that takes them to the U.S. Some programmes do not analyze the capacity of speech. Within a few months, many exchange students are proficient in the host country’s language.
Top Benefits Of Exchange Programmes
Study Overseas At A Fraction Of The Price
Their most attractive feature is the low cost of international student exchange programmes. Going to university abroad normally costs a fortune which goes beyond most Indian students’ economic means. However, students can gain the experience of living and studying in a foreign country at a tiny fraction of the cost when traveling internationally on a student exchange programme.
Exposure To Innovative Learning Methods
Every nation has its own way of teaching students. When a student from a specific country goes overseas, they are introduced to alternative educational methods, something they are likely to bring back to their native country to exchange with their peers. The exposure however, improves not just their own educational process, but also that of their classmates back home.
Stepping Stone To Personal Growth
There’s nothing quite like living alone in a foreign country for self improvement, away from family and friends.The learning will lead to increased self-esteem and self-confidence.
It will further strengthen the decision-making skills and critical thinking skills of students, not to mention their understanding and appreciation of various cultures and landscapes. Staying overseas, even for a short duration, would give students a world view, in the true sense of the term.
Plan For The World Economy
The rapidly decreasing business world is always searching for people who know and can work in the global economy. As most university students traveling abroad on international student exchange programmes are on the verge of entering the workforce, they are prepared to work in the global economy by their experience overseas. They have a clear grasp of the global market dynamics and are far better trained to address global problems at their workplaces.
Create Life-Long Bonds
Many programmes allow students to live in the host nation with a foster family. This helps students appreciate and understand the host country’s culture and heritage, creating global citizens. If they ever decide to work and move overseas, the experience of moving into a new way of life comes in handy. Living so close to a set of people while being on the receiving end of their hospitality and kindness helps students develop life-long relationships with them.
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