What is the Exchange Student Cost?

How much does it cost to be an exchange student to Japan?

• I'd like to go the year after next for half the Japanese school year or more. I've googled prices but can't really find what the different options are. I'd also like to know if it would cost less if my family hosts a Japanese student in exchange?

• Answer:

  Hi there! You might want to check out a few different exchange programs. There's many out there, such as AFS, YFU, Rotary, ASSE... AFS, YFU, and ASSE are similar, regarding costs and the way they work. AFS is the one that's been out there for the longest, as far as I;m concerned. Rotary is more of a group thing, where there's different districts in each country, etc. Slightly more confusing, but still a very good program. Probably not the best if you've got your mind set on one country, as not many people get their first choice. AFS, YFU, and ASSE are roughly the same cost for Japan. Around 8 to 10 thousand. However, don't let this scare you away. They all offer scholarships and encourage potential exchange students to fundraise. Also, if you're planning this early (as early as I am), with good fundraising, you can probably cover up to HALF if not more of the costs. Rotary, on the other hand, is about 1 to 2 thousand. While cheaper, the chances of you getting your first choice are very slim, but it could happen though. The rest, as far as researching safety, reliability, etc, is up to you. :) Listed the sites in my sources, by the way. Hope to see you on exchange if you go through AFS! (going to Japan the same year as you, hopefully.) (also, join cultures shocked! it's an exchange forum, and we can probably answer other questions you have over there)