Student Ambassador Exchange (SAE) knows that many students overseas are excited to have the opportunity to study in the United States! Maybe you’ve known someone who has studied abroad and had a great experience or maybe you’re a traveler yourself! Whatever your reasons for wanting to do cultural exchange, SAE is ready to help.

We’re here with you every step of the way, and because our agency is a tight-knit organization, you’ll have the support of your Local Coordinator, our home office, and your carefully selected host family. We focus on bringing well-qualified students to the United States to ensure each and every one has an amazing experience – including you!

• Our Program
• Eligibility
• How to Apply

• Enrollment in a U.S. public high school for one or two semesters
• Room and board with a volunteer host family
• Orientation training after student's arrival in the U.S.Support and contact with an SAE Local Coordinator and Regional Program Coordinator
• Regular Program Evaluation
• Departure training prior to the end of the school year
• Health and accident insurance
• Airport pick-up and drop off for arrival and departure from the program
• DS-2019 support for J-1 Visa applications


The program excludes:
• International and domestic air travel
• School fees
• Additional activity fees
• Lunch at school
• Personal money

Students should be prepared to provide for their own personal expenses and for any meals outside of those eaten with the host family. Placements in our J-1 Visa program are determined by school and host family availability. Students should be prepared to be placed in any region in the continental United States.

All J-1 Visa students must meet the following requirements. If you are unsure if you meet the requirements, please get in touch with a Program Coordinator at the following email address: info@saeglobal.org.

• English Proficiency: An acceptable score on an approved English exam
• Grade Point Average: Maintain a minimum grade point average of C or better.
• Maturity: Express maturity needed to enter an intercultural program in a new country and be prepared to accept placement as provided by SAE
• Application: Complete the required application and provide required supporting documentation
• Age: Be between the ages of 15 and 18
• Graduation: Have not completed graduation in your home country’s schooling system
• Health: Be in good health to undertake an intensive educational and intercultural learning program

Meeting the minimum requirements may not guarantee acceptance into the program. Please speak with an SAE Program Coordinator if you have concerns.

Please fill out our inquiry form, use our contact us page, or fill out our initial application to fast track your application to our program. An SAE Program Coordinator will get in touch with you within 48 business hours. We would love to get you started on your educational journey in the United States today!

The Department of State implemented a toll free number (1-866-283-9090) for secondary school students, which was effective August 1, 2009. The toll free number can be used by host families, exchange students, and the public to report circumstances impacting the students’ health, safety, and well-being during their exchange visitor programs. You can also email the Department at jvisas@state.gov.