Direct Exchange FAQs
Answers about J-1 visa sponsorship, hosting a student you already know and life as an exchange student in the U.S.
NWSE is a non-profit organization designated by the U.S. Department of State as a J-1 visa sponsor, facilitating high school exchanges since 1987 with a focus on safety and cultural immersion.
The J-1 visa is for cultural exchange at public high schools (regulated by the Dept. of State), while the F-1 visa is for academic study, often at private schools, and allows for multiple years of study.
Yes, we maintain full listing with the Council on Standards for International Educational Travel (CSIET).
Safety is managed through a multi-layer system: NWSE Local Coordinators, vetted host families, criminal background checks, and mandatory monthly check-ins with the student and host family.
NWSE operates across the entire United States, primarily in regions where public high schools are welcoming of international cultural exchange and J-1 sponsorship.
In a Direct Exchange, students choose their state by finding a host family there. In standard placements, we prioritize the family match over a specific geographic location.
NWSE operates a 24/7/365 emergency response line. Every student, parent, and host family can call the 24-hour NWSE phone line anytime if you need help.
Yes, NWSE facilitates outbound exchange programs to various countries including Germany, France, Spain, and Japan for American high school students.
All NWSE Local Coordinators undergo U.S. Department of State-mandated training and background checks annually. In addition, NWSE Regional Managers provide additional training on program rules, conflict resolution, student safety, and best practices.
Yes, all NWSE J-1 students must purchase comprehensive medical insurance that meets or exceeds the strict U.S. Department of State requirements for exchange visitors.
A Direct Exchange (also called a direct placement or self-placed exchange) is when a student already knows a family in the U.S. who agrees to host them, and NWSE provides the J-1 visa sponsorship, school acceptance and local support.
Yes! This is a very common Direct Exchange scenario that strengthens international professional and personal ties.
No. The local public school has the final authority. NWSE works with the school to secure the necessary 'School Acceptance Form' for the student.
SEVIS is the 'Student and Exchange Visitor Information System,' a U.S. government database used to track and monitor all exchange visitors while they are in the country.
While we typically accept applications through May 31, we urge you to submit your application as soon as possible. Many U.S. school districts close to exchange students much earlier once they hit capacity, so applying by February or March is the best way to secure your placement.
This fee is usually paid by the natural parents as part of the student's visa application and interview process.
Generally, no. J-1 students are usually expected to return home to share their experiences before applying for a different visa type.
The DS-2019 is the 'Certificate of Eligibility' issued by NWSE. It is the primary document a student needs to apply for their J-1 visa at a U.S. Consulate.
You can still host! In NWSE's standard exchange program, we help you find an international student who is a good fit for your family. Learn about hosting with NWSE.
Yes. The U.S. Department of State defines 'family' broadly. Single parents, empty-nesters, and couples without children are all encouraged to host.
No. Per federal J-1 regulations, hosting is a volunteer act to ensure the student is welcomed for cultural reasons. However, hosts may qualify for a $50/month tax deduction.
No. The natural parents are responsible for all international/domestic travel costs and all government SEVIS and visa application fees.
A student may share a room with a same-sex sibling of similar age, provided they have their own bed, a closet, and a quiet place for study.
Students have full medical insurance. You simply assist them in accessing medical care; the host family is never responsible for medical bills or copays.
You provide three nutritious meals a day. This typically includes breakfast, a packed lunch for school, and a shared family dinner at home.
Students typically use the school bus for daily transit. For social activities, the student is treated as a member of the family, getting rides in the family car or from approved friends. Per program rules, the student is not permitted to drive during the exchange.
No. Federal J-1 regulations strictly prohibit hosting relatives, such as nieces, nephews, cousins or grandchildren. Only non-relatives qualify for J-1 sponsorship.
NWSE provides mediation via the Local Coordinator and NWSE staff. If a situation is irreconcilable, NWSE manages the student's transition to a new host home.
No. The goal is immersion in 'Everyday American Life.' While family trips are welcome, your primary role is to provide a stable home environment, not a vacation.
Yes, this is a 'Double Placement.' The students must be of different nationalities or native languages to ensure English is the primary language in the home.
You can host for one semester (approx. 5 months) or a full academic year (approx. 10 months), depending on the student's program.
Yes. Every person aged 18 or older living in the home must pass a criminal background check and a reference check per federal regulations.
Most background checks are completed within 48 to 72 hours using our secure, federal-grade vetting system.
If the student cannot join you, your Local Coordinator will arrange a temporary home with a background-checked relative or family friend for the duration of your trip.
Yes. In a Direct Exchange, you live with a U.S. host family you already know, such as family friends or your parents' former host family. The family can't be relatives. NWSE vets the host family, arranges your acceptance at the local high school and sponsors your J-1 visa.
Yes, as long as the host family isn't related to your child. NWSE sponsors the J-1 visa for a semester or a full school year. Every adult in the host home must pass a background check, and a Local Coordinator near the family supports your child throughout the exchange.
No problem. In a standard one-way exchange, NWSE finds a host family for you.
NWSE provides an official transcript and Apostille services to ensure your academic work is legally recognized by your home country's ministry of education.
Most schools require American History and English. You can then choose from electives like Robotics, Drama, Photography, or Psychology.
In most cases, yes. Participation is subject to the rules of the local state athletic association (e.g., WIAA, UIL) and school eligibility requirements.
The iTEP is a standardized English proficiency test. NWSE uses it to measure your ability to understand high-school-level classroom instruction and take part in everyday conversations.
This depends on school district policy. While most students receive a certificate of completion, some schools allow seniors to 'walk' at graduation and earn a diploma.
We recommend $200–$300 USD per month for personal items, school supplies, social outings, and independent meals outside the home.
No. J-1 exchange students are strictly prohibited from operating motor vehicles during their program for insurance and safety reasons.
It is normal! Your host family, Local Coordinator and the NWSE staff are there to support you through the adjustment period as you adapt to your new culture.
Visits are discouraged during the first semester to allow for full immersion. If parents visit, it is usually best at the end of the program.
No, as a J-1 Secondary School Student, you are generally not authorized to work in a regular part-time or full-time job in the United States. However, small neighborly tasks like occasional babysitting are usually permitted.
Students must be between 15 and 18.5 years old on the day of their arrival in the United States.
No, but you must maintain a 'C' average (or its equivalent in your home country) to remain eligible for the J-1 High School program.
Not always. You are guaranteed your own bed, but you may share a bedroom with a same-sex sibling of similar age.
Students may receive verbal reminders or formal written warning plans to address rule violations or behavioral issues. Serious violations - including illegal acts, safety risks, or persistent poor behavior - may result in immediate program dismissal and an early return home at the natural parents' expense.
No. J-1 visa regulations limit the high school exchange program to a maximum of one academic year (10 months).
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