Student Programs

Your Future Starts Here.
Pick the Program That Fits.

Whether you want a semester in a U.S. public school, a full academic year at a private school, a summer experience, or something completely different — we have a program for that. All operated through ICES, a Department of State-designated sponsor with 30+ years of experience.

30+
Years of ICES Programs
7
Program Options
126
Partner Schools
42+
Countries Represented

Why Study in the United States?

An American education opens doors. Here's what makes it worth it.

World-Class Education

Access to diverse curricula, advanced coursework, and teaching styles that develop critical thinking — skills that matter everywhere.

Cultural Immersion

Live with an American family, make lifelong friendships, and experience daily life in a way that no vacation or language class can replicate.

College & Career Advantage

A U.S. high school transcript, English fluency, and cross-cultural experience give you a real edge on college applications and in the job market.

All ICES Programs

Every program is operated through ICES — a nonprofit, Department of State-designated J-1 sponsor and CSIET-listed organization since 1991.

J-1 Exchange Program

Ages 15–18 | Semester or Full Year | J-1 Visa

The classic American exchange experience. Attend a U.S. public school and live with a volunteer host family. An affordable way to experience American culture, improve your English, and grow as a person. ICES host families are carefully screened and provide a real home — not just a room.

F-1 Academic Choice Program

Ages 14–18 | Semester or Multi-Year | F-1 Visa

Want to choose your school, location, or sport? The F-1 Choice Program gives you flexibility the J-1 doesn't. Pick a public or private school that fits your academic goals, graduate with a U.S. diploma, or focus on a specific subject or athletic pathway. Your program, your way.

Middle School Program

Grades 6–8 | Semester or Full Year | F-1 Visa

Not ready for high school abroad? Start earlier. ICES Middle School lets younger students experience American education alongside their U.S. classmates — a great way to build confidence, language skills, and decide if a full high school program is the right next step.

Summer Homestay Program

Ages 14–18 | 2–8 Weeks | Tourist Visa

A short-term cultural immersion for students who want to test the waters. Live with an American host family, practice English in real life, and experience daily American culture — without committing to a full academic year. Perfect for families who want to try it first.

Virtual High School Program

All Ages | Flexible Duration | No Visa Required

Earn a U.S. high school diploma from home. ICES Virtual High School offers a fully accredited American education online — ideal for students who can't travel yet, want to supplement their local schooling, or need a flexible schedule that works around other commitments.

High School in Ireland & the UK

Ages 12–18 | Semester or Full Year

Not set on the U.S.? ICES also offers programs in Ireland (public and private schools, ages 12–18) and the United Kingdom (ages 16–18). Live with a host family, study alongside local students, and explore Europe while you learn.

Internships & Professional Training

Ages 18+ | Varies by Program | J-1 Visa

Ready to launch your career internationally? ICES internship and professional training programs let you gain real-world experience at an American company, build your professional network, and add international credentials to your resume.

Not Sure Which Program?

Most students aren't sure when they first reach out

That's totally fine. Tell us about your goals, your age, your timeline, and what matters to you — we'll match you with the right program. No pressure, just honest guidance.

Talk to an Advisor

How to Get Started

From first conversation to first day of school — we walk you through every step.

1

Tell Us About Yourself

Your goals, your interests, your timeline. A quick call or form is all it takes to get started. We'll figure out which program fits.

2

We Match You

School, host family, location — everything is selected based on who you actually are. Not random. Not leftover spots. A real match.

3

Arrive & Thrive

Visa support, pre-departure prep, airport pickup, orientation, and ongoing check-ins. You're never on your own — before, during, or after.

Find SEVP-Certified Schools

Use the official U.S. government tool to search for schools certified to enroll international students.

The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certifies U.S. schools to enroll F-1 and M-1 international students. Before you can study in the U.S., your school must be SEVP-certified. Use the official School Search tool from the Department of Homeland Security to browse certified schools by name, location, or program type.

Programs operated by
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All programs are operated through ICES (International Cultural Exchange Services) — a nonprofit, U.S. Department of State-designated J-1 visa sponsor with a full CSIET listing since 1991. ICES has placed thousands of students from 42+ countries and maintains the highest compliance standards in the industry.

Your Adventure Starts
With One Conversation

Tell us what you're looking for. We'll tell you which program fits — and what it takes to get there. Free, no obligation.

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