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Foundation Tier

Heartland Exchange Program

Omaha, NE

One of the most affordable ways to experience American high school life. A J-1 program that puts culture first.

School Type
Public
Location
Omaha, NE
Living Style
Host Family
Tuition Tier
Foundation (Under $15K/yr)
Programs
J-1 Exchange Visitor Program
Best For
Budget-conscious families wanting authentic cultural exchange

Why Heartland Exchange Program

A J-1 State Department program with cultural immersion and affordable tuition.

Affordable Excellence

Under $15K covers placement, host family, and program coordination — one of the best values in international education.

Cultural Deep Dive

Omaha may not be on every tourist map, but that's exactly the point — students experience real American life, not a curated version of it.

State Department Backing

Full J-1 program support including health insurance, local coordinator, and 24/7 emergency line. Students and families are never on their own.

What GLA Places Students Into

Heartland Exchange Program partners with Global Link Advisors on these specific placement tracks.

Semester or Full-Year Exchange

Flexible enrollment options for J-1 students looking for a semester or full academic year experience. Both options include full host family placement and program support.

Midwest Community Life

Host families in Omaha offer genuine Midwestern hospitality — home-cooked meals, Friday night football, and weekend adventures that make students feel like family.

College Readiness Support

Guidance counselors help exchange students understand U.S. college applications and standardized testing, giving them a head start on their higher education journey.

Academics & Curriculum

A strong public school curriculum with support for exchange students.

Average Class Size
22 Students
AP Courses
6 Available
IB Program
No
ESL Support
Yes — Basic
Graduation Rate
90%
College Placement
State University Placements

Strong Programs

Agricultural Sciences, Drama, Journalism, and Community Service.

Foreign Languages

Spanish offered at multiple proficiency levels.

ESL Support

Basic ESL support with buddy system and teacher accommodations to help exchange students thrive academically and socially.

Admissions Requirements

What you need to know before applying.

English Test Required
No (Basic English Needed)
GPA Requirement
2.0+ (on 4.0 scale)
Admissions Status
Rolling Admissions
Application Deadline
April 15
Age Range
15–18 (Grades 9–12)
Graduation Eligible
Yes — U.S. Diploma

Student Life & Extracurriculars

Life at Heartland Exchange Program goes far beyond the classroom.

Clubs & Organizations

Drama Club, Journalism & Newspaper, FFA, Student Government, Debate Team, and community service groups.

Host Family Activities

Weekend outings, holiday celebrations, family dinners, and community events. Students become part of the family — not just a guest in the house.

Sports

Varsity and JV programs in football, basketball, baseball, soccer, track & field, wrestling, and swimming.

Location & Travel

Getting here and getting around.

City
Omaha, NE
Region
Midwest
Nearest Airport
OMA — Eppley Airfield
Airport Distance
~20 minutes
Climate
Continental climate
Campus Setting
Suburban

Interested in Heartland Exchange Program?

Tell us about your student. We'll let you know if Heartland Exchange Program is a fit — and if not, we'll suggest the school that is.

Not Sure About Heartland Exchange Program?
Let's Find the Right Fit.

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