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An International Community of Caring Families
At Exchange Families International, we believe the best way to experience another culture and learn a language is by becoming part of a family.
We specialize in reciprocal student exchanges for children and teens ages 8–17, carefully matching each child with a student and host family from another country. The two students remain together throughout the exchange, living as siblings, attending school together, and helping one another learn each other's language through everyday family life.
Because our exchanges are reciprocal, both families host a child and send a child, creating meaningful cultural connections and lifelong friendships.
Open your home. Send your child. Experience another culture. Learn a language.
Living with a Family
Become part of another family and experience daily life like a local.
Learning Naturally
Build language skills through real conversations, not just a classroom experience.
Grow Confident
Gain independence, resilience, and a broader view of the world.
Life Long Connections
Create friendships and memories that last a lifetime.
Reciprocal
Your child hosts an exchange partner and is then hosted in return, so both families benefit.
Our Programs
Find the exchange that fits.
Different lengths.
The same life-changing experience.
SUMMER EXCHANGE
up to 30 days
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Travel during summer break
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Student lives as a full member of the host family
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No hotel stays or tourist-style programming
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Real-world travel experience (navigating airports, train stations, etc.)
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Builds confidence quickly
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Develops leadership skills
SHORT STAY EXCHANGES
up to 90 days
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Language acquisition
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Improved problem-solving skills
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Increased knowledge and interest in global issues
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Cultural awareness
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Improved first language
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Improved memory
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Perfecting a native accent
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Gain advanced vocabulary for immersion student
LONG STAY EXCHANGES
up to 180 days
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Full integration into school and community life
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Participation in daily routines, holidays, and traditions
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Maximum language fluency development
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True cultural integration
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High level of independence and resilience
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Lifelong global connections
Learn More
About Our Programs
Read More
About Our Families Stories
All The Ways
To Connect With EFI
Learn More
About Our Destinations
Not Tourists. Family.
Where will you go?
Choosing a destination doesn’t require prior language skills or months of study. With full immersion, kids jump right in and learn naturally! Language develops quickly through daily interactions with host families and schools, and most children become conversational within six weeks, even with no prior knowledge. In just six months or less, fluency becomes second nature. Learning happens fast when students are fully immersed!
France
Italy
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United
States
Germany
Spain
Canada
United Kingdon
Country Not Listed?
How It Works
Simple steps to a life-changing experience.
What Our Families Say
About EFI
“Our experience with EFI has shown us what a thoughtful, responsible and thorough organization it is. EFI creates connections not just for a semester or a year, but for a lifetime. Six years after our daughter’s exchange, her French exchange sister will be the maid of honor at her wedding.”
- Knelly Dettinger
Read more about our families stories
Have Questions?
Let's Chat!
