🇺🇸 Term & School Year

Term and school year in the United States

The American high school from the movies is real: lockers, school teams, graduation… It is the most transformative experience for a teenager with a big appetite for the world.

Tell me about your child Term & School Year
Exchange students at an American high school
Ages13 to 18 years old
DurationSemester or full school year (Aug/Sept - May/June)
AccommodationVolunteer host family (J-1 programme) · Host family or residence (F-1 programme) · Private boarding school

The year that changes everything

Ask anyone who did a school year in the USA as a teenager: they will tell you it was the year of their life. American high schools embrace international students like nowhere else — the football team, the school band, prom, graduation. It isn’t a movie cliché: it’s everyday life.

Academically, high school is more hands-on than most European systems: fewer simultaneous subjects, more projects, more participation, and electives you won’t find at home (photography, robotics, journalism, musical theatre…).

Two paths: J-1 and F-1

The J-1 programme is the classic cultural exchange: a volunteer American family hosts your child as one of their own. It is the most affordable and most “authentic” option — in exchange, you don’t pick the destination. The F-1 programme runs on a student visa and lets you choose the school and the area, with host family or boarding options.

There is no “better” programme — only a better programme for your child. My job is to help you see it clearly before you sign anything.

Not ready for a full year? A summer in the United States is the perfect rehearsal. Looking closer to home? See Ireland or Canada.

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FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between J-1 and F-1?

J-1 is the classic exchange: more affordable, with a volunteer family and a school assigned by the American organisation (no destination choice). F-1 lets you choose school and area, with more control, at a higher cost. I'll walk you through both calmly.

Can my child choose the destination with J-1?

No — destination flexibility is the essence of J-1: it could be Texas, Michigan or North Carolina. If choosing the area matters to your family, F-1 is your programme.

What age and English level are required?

Between 13 and 18 (ideally 15-17) and intermediate English: programmes require an interview or a test such as ELTiS. A previous summer in the USA or Ireland works wonders if your child isn't there yet.

Who looks after my child over there?

A local coordinator visits the family and answers within hours, backed by veteran American organisations. And above all, me: I speak regularly with you and your child, and I get personally involved if anything goes off track.

Is the American year academically recognised back home?

Yes, with planning. Subject selection from day one is the key, and I handle it directly with the American school so validation is a formality, not a problem.

★★★★★

What families say

A wonderful, highly recommendable experience. Esther, with you every doubt turns into calm, security and trust. Maximum professionalism.
Beatriz R.
Nothing to fault. A fantastic experience, with Esther always attentive and on top of everything.
María B.
Completely at ease in your hands. An incredible experience! A big hug.
Mercedes G.

Shall we talk about your child's case?

Tell me what you are looking for and I will personally get back to you as soon as possible. No obligation, no middlemen: you talk directly to me, Esther.

Tell me about your child WhatsApp +34 615 19 47 40