High School Exchange in New Zealand

Study abroad in New Zealand

New Zealand is one of the first places on Earth to greet each new day … a fitting start for a country that makes the most of every one of them. Small, remote, and sparsely populated, it more than makes up for its size with breathtaking scenery, vibrant festivals, incredible food, and outdoor adventures around every corner. As an exchange student, you’ll also experience a country that genuinely celebrates its Māori heritage and indigenous culture, woven into everyday life in a way few places can match.

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Program Summary:

Program: Classic program

Program length: Short- and Long programs

Vaccinations: Yes

Discounts and Scholarship: Yes

Language criteria: No

Language course: No

Welcome Camp: Yes

Classic Program

Our Classic program will match you with a welcoming host family and place you in a nearby school. We find the host family and choose the school, and you can enjoy immersing yourself in local culture & community. These are perfect for students who:

* Flexible about location, and the academic experience
* Want to have a cultural experience
* Interested in joining sports, clubs, and activities
* Grow as a person and improve language skills

UNLOCK THE WORLD

Classic high school exchange program

Age and eligibility

Programs are available to students aged from 15 – 17 years.

Additional eligibility requirements

Language criteria

None

Program length

Programs are available for students 3 months, an Academic Semester or Academic Year

Visa

Not required when travelling on an Australian passport.

Schools

As an exchange student in New Zealand, you will have the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the daily lives of teenagers. Embracing school uniforms, a vibrant high school spirit, and a diverse range of outdoor education options are integral parts of the New Zealand school experience.

While subjects like Math, English, and Physical Education are compulsory, if you have the chance to choose an elective, it is recommended to opt for classes that may not be available in Australia, such as Maori Language, Agriculture Studies, or Outdoor Education.

New Zealand high schools often offer a variety of sports and activities. Many schools have sports teams dedicated to sports like rugby, lacrosse, swimming, basketball, golf, and hockey. These activities are typically organised after school hours by teachers and parents.

Important Program Information

Insurance

Vaccinations

General Visa Info

Embassy Links

Program Start Dates

Quality Management

Terms & Conditions

New Zealand Classic Prices

Length	Arrive	Depart	Price AUD	Deadline
Academic Semester	Jan 20, 2027	Jun 26, 2027	$10,450	Sept 30, 2026
Academic Year	Jan 20, 2027	Nov 27, 2027	$12,950	Sept 30, 2026
3 Months	Jan 23, 2027	Apr 17, 2027	$8,300	Sept 30, 2026
3 Months	Jul 3, 2027	Sep 25, 2027	$8,300	Jan 31, 2027
Academic Semester	Jul 14, 2027	Nov 27, 2027	$10,450	Jan 31, 2027
Academic Year	Jul 14, 2027	Apr 23, 2028	$12,950	Jan 31, 2027

Program prices include a flight budget, and surcharges may apply. Early departures or personal travel changes incur a $300 fee plus any airline costs. Program dates are indicative at the time of publishing and may shift slightly, with confirmed travel details provided by your Program Coordinator. Places are limited, so apply early to secure your spot. For full pricing and surcharge information, see our Money Matters page.

Welcome Camp

Included in the program fee

For Academic Semester & Academic Year programs arriving in Jan/Feb & July

Australian Academic Semester & Year participants will join fellow exchange students from around the world to start your adventure in with a Welcome Camp for 2 nights in Auckland! Students on a Short 3 Month program will meet their host family on arrival, rather than attend the camp. An example agenda is as follows:

Day 1:
Airport Meet & Greet
Transfer to accommodation
Check in to rooms/luggage/shower/relax
Gather together for orientation chat
(support, rules, culture shock, host families, school, My Exchange platform)
Dinner at hostel & free time

Day 2:
Breakfast & chat about today’s plan
Walk to visit Sky Tower
Free time to explore Auckland
Meet for Dinner (students purchase own dinner)
Return to hostel
Free time to pack

Day 3:
Travel to Domestic Airport
Flights to/Meeting Host Families

LIVE Online Information Sessions

A high school student exchange program is a big decision.

Learn about what life on exchange actually looks like, the support students & families receive, and the transformations our team sees every year.

Register now and feel confident taking the next step.

Save your spot!

“How did this year impact me so far? Honestly I don´t really know. I feel like a different person who has a different view of life. It showed me how the world is, taught me to appreciate everything. It became one of the best years of my life with all those up and downs. This year doesn´t define me, it made me!”

Luise in New Zealand

“Going on an exchange is like jumping out of an airplane. You are leaving your comfort zone and have to be brave since you don’t know what is expecting you. But when I jumped I learned to take decisions by myself for the first time and how to open up to new people and their cultural habits. It was not always easy but well worth it.”

Lene in New Zealand