FAQS
What will I do during my exchange?
You will experience life just like a local! Students join extracurricular activities, explore their town & local attractions and
spend time with their host families. Year and semester students will attend school as well.
Will I get to go to my first choice country?
We always try to send students to their first choice country. If a student is ineligible or a program is full, we will work with
them and either put them on a waitlist or look into their next choice country/program.
Can I go to a particular country if I don’t speak the language?
Most programs do not have a language requirement. Living with a host family and attending school are the best ways to
improve your language skills or learn a new language. Some programs even offer formal language instruction.
If I already know of a family in the country I want to go to, can I stay with them?
Yes, students may request a direct placement if the family is not related to the student. The host family will be screened like
any other host family that we place students with. If the requested family meets YFU’s standards, then a direct placement
can be made.
How will I first get to my host family? Will there be anyone at the airport to help me?
YFU travel staff will be located in “gateway” airports throughout the US and will be available to assist you in getting to your
international flight. When you arrive in your host country, you will be met at the airport by either your host family or a YFU
representative. Students whose host families do not live near the airport or orientation site will travel by bus, train, or plane
to their host family.
Will someone in my host family speak English? If not, how will I communicate?
Immersing yourself in the language is the best way to learn! If you don’t share the language, you will use gestures, body
language and portable dictionaries! YFU host families are happy to help students learn!
What if I have a problem with my host family?
All students are assigned an Area Representative who is available for support. There is also a 24 hour emergency hotline if
there is a situation that needs immediate attention.
What additional costs should I budget for that are not included in the YFU Program tuition?
Passport and visa fees such as application costs, travel costs to consulates or embassies for in-person visits, postage
and medical exams; school expenses such as books, notebooks and uniforms; optional trips planned by the host family;
medical insurance; personal spending money.
For more in-depth Q&A’s, visit yfuusa.org/study/faq.
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