ASSE students come from more than 50 different countries and are between the ages of 15 and 18 years old.

The exchange students are excited to experience American culture and share their own culture and language with their host families, according to a press release, and ASSE wants hosts to “welcome the students as a family member, not as a guest, and hopes all parties are involved in a rich cultural experience.”

Host families may be single parents, couples and single persons. The exchange students bring their own money for personal expenses and have full health, accident and liability insurance. ASSE students are selected by academics and personalities, and host families can choose their student from a wide variety of backgrounds and personal interests.

Each student will list their interests and hobbies online at asse.com/meet_our_students for prospective hosts to find a suitable match. The students also list their spoken languages and their parents’ professions.

ASSE also offers qualified American students the opportunity to spend time abroad for a school year, semester or summer with a host family in another country. To learn more about becoming an exchange student, visit asse.com/become_an_asse_exchange_student/student_exchange_program. 

Those interested in hosting or becoming an exchange student can also call Elena Lannotti, ASSE Western Regional Director, at 1-800-733-2773 or send an email to asseusawest@asse.com to start the application process.