Adolesco exchanges are a special kind of opportunity where you and your exchange partner both get the opportunity to host and to travel. We carefully match you with an exchange partner in your preferred country (although the more open you are to possible destinations, the more likely you are to be matched). You and your exchange partner will take turns living with each other’s families for a period of up to three months each. The timing and duration of your travel are up to you – we only ask that you be open to hosting for longer or shorter than you travel if it works out that way.
Adventurous and friendly children and teens ages 9 to 17 and their welcoming families are encouraged to apply. Adolesco exchanges are currently offered in France, Germany, Spain, Great Britain, Ireland, the USA, and Canada. You must live in a listed country to participate.
Adolesco exchanges are only offered between countries with different languages. English speakers in the USA, Canada, and the UK and Ireland may choose to travel to France, Germany, Spain, or Italy. Adolesco does not offer exchanges between countries with the same language: for example, the USA and the UK, or Ireland and Canada.
Adolesco accepts applications year-round for two matching cycles in the spring and fall (typically March and November). Contact your Adolesco representative for specific information about upcoming deadlines. Please note: the entire application process can take 4 to 8 weeks, and your application must be complete in order for you to be considered for a match in a given cycle.
When you have decided that an Adolesco exchange is right for you and your family and you are committed to participating if you are matched with an exchange partner, the non-refundable Application Fee is $200 (USD)/$260 (CAD).
The Exchange Fee is $1,800 (USD)/$2,400 (CAD). The Exchange Fee may be paid in two installments: a deposit ($800 USD/$1,000 CAD) when the match is accepted, and the balance ($1,000 USD/$1,400 CAD) three months later. If for some reason an exchange is canceled before either child travels, exchange fees already paid are typically refunded.
Airfare and other travel costs are each family’s responsibility. Exchange children must also have a traveler’s insurance policy, primarily medical, which can usually be purchased for under $100.
For siblings of exchange alumni as well as for candidates applying for a second (or third!) exchange, the exchange fee is discounted 10%. Contact your Adolesco representative for payment details.
The first step is to contact your local representative. They will be your guide throughout the application process and your exchange, from beginning to end. Send us an email or submit the Pre-Application and we’ll be in touch with the next steps: