TIPS FOR YOUR SUCCESSFUL APPLICATION
These 14 tips have been put together especially for you to help you create a convincing and successful application. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of being accepted onto an exchange programme and prepare yourself for your upcoming adventure. We want to make sure you know exactly what to look for in a high school application and give you the confidence and support you need to achieve your goals.
- Preparation for the job interview:
Practise typical questions for an interview for a student exchange programme and prepare meaningful answers. Show your motivation, your intercultural skills and why you are suitable for the programme. - Start early:
Fill out the application documents completely and carefully. Check all details several times for accuracy and completeness to ensure that no important information is missing. Start planning and writing your application in good time. This process requires careful preparation and can take several weeks. An early application shows commitment and gives you enough time to collect all the necessary documents and ensure the quality of your application. - Show your personality:
Use the application documents to authentically present your personality and interests. Describe your hobbies, your previous experience and what makes you stand out. - Motivation letter:
The letter of motivation is a central element of your application. Describe in detail why you want to do a high school stay abroad. Go into personal reasons, such as your interest in the culture, your goals in terms of language skills and your expectation of gaining new experiences. Highlight what sets you apart from other applicants and why you are suitable for the programme. - Testimonials:
Collect your most recent school reports and make sure they are complete and up to date. Make sure that they are notarised by your school. If necessary, have the certificates professionally translated so that they are understandable in the target country. Good grades in relevant subjects can increase your chances. - Letter of recommendation:
Ask teachers who know you well and can speak favourably about you for letters of recommendation. These should describe your academic abilities, personality and social behaviour. Give your teachers enough time to write the letter and make sure they know what is important. - Preparation:
Take advantage of all the information and preparation opportunities offered by the exchange organisation. Attend preparatory meetings, webinars and workshops. Inform yourself thoroughly about the school system, culture and way of life in your destination country. Good preparation will help you to settle in more quickly and better understand any cultural differences. - Honesty:
Always be honest in your application and interview. Don't exaggerate and state realistic goals and expectations. Authenticity is always better received than exaggerated self-promotion. Show that you are ready to embrace new experiences and overcome challenges. - Flexibility:
Show flexibility and openness towards different host families, schools and regions in your application and interview. A flexible attitude signals to the exchange organisation that you are adaptable and willing to make the best of any situation. This can increase your chances of being selected for the programme. - Follow-up:
After you have submitted your application, keep in touch with the exchange organisation. Confirm receipt of your documents and ask if any further information is required. Continue to show interest and commitment. Proactive behaviour leaves a positive impression and shows that you are taking your application seriously. - Gain insights into the culture:
Find out about the culture, history and traditions of your host country to be better prepared. The more you know about your destination country, the easier it will be to settle in and feel at home there. - Prepare for the changes:
Be aware that a student exchange can bring big changes. Be open to new experiences, people and situations and be prepared to adapt and grow. - Utilise useful resources:
Take advantage of the many resources and support options available to you. Talk to other exchange students, research on the internet and ask your exchange organisation for tips and information. - Plan your return:
Start thinking about your return during your student exchange. Plan your return journey and re-entry into school life in good time to ensure a smooth transition. Use the experience and knowledge gained from your exchange to shape your future and achieve your personal goals.
