FAQ's

When shall I apply?
The earlier you apply, the greater is the chance of being accepted to the program. Therefore, send us your application as early as possible.
What happens when I have sent you my interest form?
In a week we will call you to ask you to come for a personal interview. The interview is formal and not binding. You will also get the chance of asking us questions about our programs and your year in another country. Soon after this we will notify you if you have been accepted into one of Explorius programs.
Is it possible to apply for a scholarship?
For the academic year of 2010/2011 we gave three scholarships. Look under the headline Scholarship for more information and news for the school year 2011/2012.
Can I choose where in the U.S i want to live?
The most important thing is that we find you a host family that suits your needs. If you have certain desires because of hobbies interests, we do everything we can to match those with a host families. You can request a certain state but we cannot offer any guarantees that you will be placed there.
May I go with a friend?
Of course! If you have a friend who also wants to be a part of Explorius programs both of you have to sign up. If you wish to live nearby each other we will consider this when we match you with your host families. You will not be neighbors but be able to visit each other on weekends and holidays. But remember, the most important thing is your experience with the family and High School!
Do I have to speak the language of the program country?
You have to have a pass grade in English to go to an English speaking country.
How can I make sure to be well prepared before I go?
Before you go you will get a lot of information from Explorius. You will have your own site where you can access information during the year before you go, and you and your parents will be invited to a meeting before departure.
Why does a family want to offer their home to an exchange student?
The family picks you, and will not receive any financial compensation. The family welcomes you because they are curious about you and your culture. They want to learn more about you and want to share their culture with you. The family wants you to be a part of their family and not a guest.
What happens if I don't like the host family I've been given?
Your local representative lives nearby. If any problems arise they are there to help you. What's important is that you are open and honest, often you solve the problems together. If this is not possible, your local representative helps you to find a new host family.
What happens when I come home again?
You will probably find that you have a higher level of motivation. You may do an exam for the English, talk to your principal about it.
What is included in the price of the program?
Included are flights to and from your host family, guaranteed placement in a host family, preparation and information, welcome camp in New York/Fortaleza for those going to the U.S/Brazil. 24/ support, membership in Explorius Ambassador Club when arrival back home.
Will there be any extra charges?
In the cost pocket money is not included. By experience you can count on 150-200 USD. School lunch, uniform, and personal trips are not included either. The cost of vaccination, health check, and Visa you pay yourself as well.
How are the host families chosen?
The families have to apply and they go through the same procedure as the student, the local representative from the American organization visits the family and interviews them in their homes. You also conduct referenses. The application will throughly be looked at, and ig the family is seen as suitable it is welcome into our program.
What type of insurance do I need?
The American authorities demand that you have an insurance covering everything. It is important that it covers illness, accidents, responsibility, and the journey. Explorius offers such an insurance, to the U.S the price is 6750 SK.
Can I continue with my sport during my year abroad?
The American school offers a large amount of different sports, and is well-known for that. However, to be reassured we will make it clear in your application.
Can I choose to go for one term only?
Yes, but we recommend you to go for a whole year. So the student gets into the system which takes a few weeks. The American school year is not divided into two terms, like the Swedish.
Can I consider my High School year as being as worthy as a Swedish?
Don't count on that, but talk to your principal about it.
Will I be the only exchange student in my school?
You will probably be the single exchange student from Explorius in your school, but there may be other exchange students from other countries and organisations there as well.
How do I choose subjects in my school?
When you arrive at your school there will be some kind of school councelor, to help you to make a schedule suitable for you.
Can I use my student grant?
France is the only country where you can use your student grant from CSN. To other countries you formally have a break in your study period and therefore don't have access to the grant.
Can I by myself find a host family and still use your program?
Yes, but there are some criteria that has to be fulfilled. The family cannot be a relative, not even a far away relative, and they cannot speak the student's tongue in the home. There has to be a local representative in the area as well.
What can I expect when i come to my new town?
Your host family or a coordinator will meet you at the airport. Your coordinator will be in regularly touch with you, during your year. Your host family or someone from the school will help you choose the subjects which suits you best. During the year the coordinator, your family, and the school will do everything they can to support and guide you.
What is the difference between an American and a Swedish teenager?
In general the American teenager has more rules to follow when it comes to home and school. Being grounded for being late is not uncommom.
Take the chance and contact us if you have any questions or want to know more!