Do you want to experience a white Christmas? Or are you dying to try snails and frogs legs in France? Or is an American Thanksgiving dinner more your style?

Options abound when it comes to where you can go on exchange. As country destinations available for Australian students are changing constantly, it is always advisable to check with us to see what new countries have been added, or what conditions may have forced the removal of a destination. If you would like to go to a country that is not on our list in the top right, please contact us as we are more than happy to look into this for you. As we have partners in over 50 countries there is the infrastructure to organise an exchange to a particular country not currently on our list.

There are a number of options regarding when you can go on exchange. WEP Australia has regular departure dates however we also try to be flexible if you cannot depart at one of these times. We will always try to accommodate a specific departure date although it may mean you have to travel on your own.

Click here to find out what is included.

Unlike backpacking, a student exchange program involves immersing yourself in the life of your chosen country. You are supported by a network of caring people who will assist you throughout the duration of your program.

Age

Students aged between 15 and 19. Mature 14 year olds may apply for some destinations. The upper age limit is dependent on the chosen country.

Year Level

Years 9-12 students with a C average. Year 12 students may apply for a year 13 (gap year) program and go overseas for either a short-term, semester or year program. It is important that students apply while still at secondary school.

1. Research the programs and options available.  
2. Choose your desired country and ensure you meet any prerequisites.
3. Complete the free application form and have your school and doctor complete their sections. Attach coloured photographs of you and your family as well as passport photos, and ensure that all sections are signed and dated.
4. Send the application with your deposit to our office for assessment. Once your application form has been reviewed, an interview will be arranged.
5. Your application is then sent overseas for final acceptance by the receiving organisation and matching to a family and school.
6. You receive information on your country of choice to assist your preparation.
7. You attend a pre-departure orientation session in Australia.
8. You receive information on your host family, school and community and begin corresponding with your new family.
9. You receive documentation and assistance to obtain your visa.
10. You fly out of Australia to begin your adventure.
11. We support you all the way.

To apply to be an exchange student with WEP, download our application form (only students enrolled in a school in VIC, NSW, or QLD are eligible) and send it along with a $500 deposit to our head office:

PO Box 260
Black Rock VIC 3193

2010 SCHOLARSHIPS - TO BE ANNOUNCED SOON!

2009 WINNERS

Congratulations to Brittany Lyons from Matthew Flinders Girls College (VIC) and Eliza Jackson from Firbank Grammar School (VIC).

Brittany and Eliza are both embarking on an exciting journey to Belgium in January. For one year both will enjoy Belgium's world famous chips and chocolates and live life the European way.

Thank you to everyone who applied, all applications were of an
extremely high standard. Early bird discounts and specials are
available at certain times of the year, so keep visiting the website
for regular updates.

2008 WINNERS

Congratulations to Brie-arna Lucas from Brisbane State High School (QLD) who has been awarded a scholarship to Belgium and Jack Riley from Princes Hill Secondary College (VIC) who has been awarded a scholarship to Italy. Both students will be leaving in January for a year.

Hosting scholarships

Do you guarantee country of choice?

Yes. However, you should check the age and language requirements to ensure you will qualify for your chosen country.

Elisabett Ackerlund

Avila College
Year 10

Elisabett chose to go to France for one semester departing in January 2005

At the moment, as you and the rest of Australia are getting ready for summer, I am now preparing myself for yet again another winter, however this time, I will be experiencing it in France and although it will be unimaginably cold, it won't dampen my spirits, because I am really enjoying my time here! The first few weeks, were really hard for me though; new family, new school, new language, it was all extremely difficult and frustrating! Then as the novelty and romance wore off and the reality settled in, I seriously doubted my sanity, because no-one in the right minds would be participating in an exchange program for so long! It seemed as though time had almost slowed down to a complete halt, and that six months was just not possible! However, time did not stop, but just kept rolling until eventually, I settled in comfortably, made some really great friends at school and was able to laugh and enjoy myself again!