As a high school principal, I have worked with many foreign exchange agencies, but PAX is in a class by itself. The PAX organization attracts and accepts top-notch candidates and properly prepares them for their yearlong stays in the United States. PAX students clearly bring us friendship, joy and a different perspective on life in the United States.

-John Brucato, Principal
Milford High School

To find out more about bringing PAX to your high school, call 1-800-555-6211 or email us.

A Valued Perspective
Students and teachers alike are delighted to have Indonesian Solli Murtyas (in blue) at their New Hampshire high school. Teachers Suzanne Carmichael and Dan Marcus told us, “He has added to the diversity in the classroom as well as added his perspective to class discussions.  In a world where opinions vary greatly from culture to culture, it is a great experience for our students to interact with Solli.”

High school exchange-what does it offer?
High school exchange is important for every high school that seeks to give its students a world view.

It's useful for every educator who recognizes that US high school students know too little of world politics, geography and current events.

High school exchange is important for every science teacher who shares a global vision of the environment and every language teacher who hopes to excite students about foreign language study.

There are so many exchange programs. Why should a high school choose PAX?

• PAX meets high standards.
Exchange visitor programs, like PAX, are strictly regulated and must adhere to federal guidelines and operate within industry standards. PAX is CSIET approved.

• PAX is large enough to be solid but small enough to be personal and has a proven track record.
PAX is one of the dozen largest programs in the US. With enrollment of 1,000 students, the foundation has students placed in all 49 continental United States. PAX has students from more than 40 countries who represent a diversity of nationalities, a mix of backgrounds, a range of interests and aptitudes. PAX provides a high level of support and service to all program participants. The PAX community coordinator lives within 50 miles and works closely with school officials to adhere to district policies and procedures.
• PAX offers a PAX Plus.
All participants in the PAX program are expected to teach as well as learn, to give as well as receive, to reach out as well as absorb. This is the PAX Plus and helps to make PAX a true exchange program. PAX students contribute their PAX Plus in different ways. They give talks on their homelands to elementary school children, serve as foreign language tutors, volunteer for local community service groups and visit shut-ins in homes and hospitals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How will PAX comply with our high school's policies on enrolling of foreign students?
A: High schools are our important partners in this cross-cultural learning program. The PAX community coordinator begins by finding out about school policies and continues to work closely with school officials. Every placement is presented to the high school for approval, and confirmed by the signing of a school enrollment form.

Q: Who are PAX students?
A: PAX carefully screens all students and reviews academic performance, English language proficiency, medical history, maturity and motivation. PAX works only with the most reputable organizations abroad to ensure that qualified applicants are selected. Students are personally interviewed and have three or more years of English.

Q: What are the academic expectations of PAX students?
A: PAX students must carry a full course load, including a minimum of four core subjects. Of these, one must be English and another U.S. history, government, economics or social studies. The student must achieve a grade of C or better in each class. PAX hopes that students will also be able to enroll in elective courses.

Q: How is grade level determined for PAX students?
A: Grade placement is at the discretion of the host high school. The decision should be made based on school policies and the student's age and academic history.

Q: Will the student expect to graduate?
A: Many students qualify for placement as seniors and many would like to be part of graduation ceremonies. However, PAX does not promise any participant a diploma and always recognizes school policies regarding graduation.

Q: Will PAX students be allowed to participate in sports and clubs?
A: PAX hopes that students will be able to join sports teams and participate in clubs and activities.

Q: Who do we contact with a question or problem?
A: For questions about PAX students and high schools, school officials and host families should first contact the community coordinator. School officials are also welcome to call the PAX national office at (800) 555-6211.