In an increasingly connected world, the ability to understand different perspectives has never been more important. Seeing the world through someone else’s eyes helps resolve conflict, sparks innovation, and builds stronger communities. One of the most powerful ways to develop this understanding is through cultural exchange.

International Experience USA is built on the belief that meaningful connections between cultures help create a more open, compassionate world. When communities welcome international students into their homes, schools, and activities, they invite new perspectives and often discover how much people from different backgrounds truly have in common.

For the upcoming 2026–2027 academic year, the United States is expected to welcome hundreds of thousands of international high school exchange students. These students arrive eager to experience everyday American life: from classroom learning and school sports to family traditions and community activities.

Many iE exchange students are particularly excited to experience the Texas lifestyle. Some have never seen mega grocery stores like H-E-B before. Others dream of seeing a rodeo or square dancing for the first time.

One of those students is Leonard, a 16-year-old from Germany who hopes to spend the school year in the United States. “I'm taking part in the exchange because I want to experience the American lifestyle and one year at the high school. I also want to improve my English skills and I hope to meet many new friends.”

For host families, the impact of student exchange can last a lifetime. Lori, an iE Local Coordinator and longtime host parent, says hosting exchange students has transformed her family. “I love all my kids— every year we add new members to our family from around the world,” Lori shared. “I’ve been doing this for five years, and now my family spans six different countries. I always say I was not meant to be an empty nester, so I import new family members every year. They keep me young, busy, and most importantly, they keep my heart open. Choosing to host was the best decision our family has ever made.”

iE-USA exchange students are between 14 and 18 years old and come from countries including Germany, Spain, Thailand, Switzerland, Brazil, Chile, Austria, Finland, and Turkey. Each student completes a thorough application process and arrives with their own spending money and health insurance.

Host families simply provide a welcoming home, including a bed, meals, and a quiet place to study for a semester or full academic year.

To learn more about becoming a host family and bringing cultural exchange to your community, contact your local coordinator at International Experience USA at m-grega@ie-usa.org or 630-518-5303, or visit our website at iE-USA.org