Why you should go on exchange to Germany

About 130 million people speak German as a first or second language, and you could be one of them! Germany has an excellent (and free) school and education system and attracts people from all over the world with its cultural offers, unique festivals and diverse landscapes. In addition, there is an interest in international relations and different cultures in this open and diverse country. So you can expect to feel welcome!

Germany is the largest country in the EU in terms of population and economy. And it really has it all. In addition to its high standard of living, you'll find a great variety of regional cultures and contrasting landscapes. Did you know Germany has coastlines with two seas and 77 islands? That it has 45 mountain ranges including the Alps? That you can hike volcanoes and swim in crater lakes?

Explore a cool music scene that ranges from Classical music to Deutschrap, Indie and Techno. Festivals throughout the year will let you delve into traditional events like Carnival, Oktoberfest and Christmas markets and showcase the international film, theater, literature and art scene. In Germany you will find cozy villages next to exciting cities like Berlin, Hamburg, Munich, Leipzig, Frankfurt or Cologne. This cosmopolitan country is also a center of technology and innovation.

The quality of German education is world-renowned and inclusive. School and university are free and teaching is interactive. Students’ opinions matter and discussions and debates are an important part of the school day.

The most common school type of German high school for exchange students to attend is called Gymnasium. Depending on your age, your grades and your knowledge of the German language you will probably be placed in a grade 10 or 11. German teachers appreciate it when you are active in class. Raise your hand, ask questions and participate in discussions. It will give your German language skills a real boost!

Germans are famously active. They love to travel and explore, enjoy the outdoors on hikes, bicycle tours or camping trips. German teenagers typically have at least one hobby like sports or music that they pursue after school in one of the many clubs aka “Verein” that exist in even the smallest villages.

Of course, you can also spend your free time in a café, cinema or shopping mall with your friends. But here's a tip for your free time in Germany: Join a club! It's a great way to make friends and have fun after school. Do you like art, dance, music or theater? Ask your host family to help you find the Verein that suits you best.