Canada is one of YFU’s most-requested destinations for Australian and New Zealand students – and one of the most naturally compatible. Shared language, a similarly outdoor-oriented culture, and a national reputation for warmth and inclusivity make Canada an ideal first exchange destination, especially for students making their first long trip overseas without family.
But don’t let the familiarity fool you. Canada is a country of genuinely dramatic contrasts: the wilderness of British Columbia, the French-language immersion of Quebec, the prairie openness of Alberta and Saskatchewan, the cultural energy of Toronto. Wherever your placement lands you, you’ll find a version of Canada quite different from what you imagined.
Canadian families tend to be outdoor-focused, community-minded, and genuinely welcoming to exchange students. Winters are colder than anything most Australians or New Zealanders have experienced – and that’s part of the appeal. Skating, skiing, snowboarding, and hockey are a regular part of daily life in many regions, and exchange students who lean into the season rather than resist it consistently report it as a highlight.
School life in Canada closely resembles the Australian system in structure, with a strong extra-curricular culture around sports, arts, and student government. Canadian schools are multicultural by nature – you’re unlikely to be the only international face in the room.
French immersion is available for students with French language skills who want placement in Quebec or bilingual regions of other provinces.
Canadian schools are known for their high educational standards and supportive learning environment. As an exchange student, you’ll typically attend a local high school where lessons are taught in English or French, depending on the region. Canadian schools offer a wide range of subjects and extracurricular activities, allowing students to explore their interests.
The school year usually runs from September to June, with breaks during the winter and summer.
Canadian high schools operate on a semester system and cover students from approximately Grade 9 (age 14) through Grade 12 (age 17–18). Curriculum and grading vary by province, but all provinces follow a broad and flexible course selection model. Many schools have strong programs in arts, technology, and outdoor education alongside standard academic pathways. Extra-curricular involvement – particularly in team sports – is a significant part of school culture.
There are no language requirements for the English speaking part of Canada.
Family life in Canada can vary greatly depending on the region and the cultural background of the host family. However, most Canadian families value quality time together, often engaging in outdoor activities or community events. Meals are an important time for family bonding, and you might experience a variety of cuisines due to Canada’s multicultural makeup. Respect, politeness, and open communication are typically valued in Canadian households.
No. English-language placements are available across most of Canada. French-language or bilingual placements in Quebec or other regions are available for students with French skills who specifically request them.
It depends on your province. In much of Canada, winters involve temperatures well below zero and significant snowfall. This is a feature, not a bug – most exchange students rate the Canadian winter experience as one of the highlights of their year.
YFU places students across multiple Canadian provinces. Your specific placement is matched to your profile and program preferences. If you have a strong regional preference, discuss this with YFU at application.
Yes. Canada is consistently rated one of the most accessible and welcoming exchange destinations for students from Australia and NZ. The shared language and cultural familiarity make the adjustment period shorter than in many other destinations.
Most Canadian provinces run a September–June school year, aligning with a northern hemisphere calendar. This is the same structure as the UK, USA, and European exchanges.
Yes, Students staying for less than six months do not require a visa and only need to complete an online ETA application. Students participating in programs longer than six months will be required to obtain a study visa. YFU provides full guidance and documentation support for the student visa process as part of your enrolment on our Canada program.
Enrolment in a public or private school for the first semester and placement in an NGO project for the second semester
Placement in an NGO project (Typically related to childcare, women's care, environmental NGOs)
Our standard all-inclusive program price with no hidden fees.
Host a student and enjoy up to 20% off the program fee, plus receive up to $4000AUD / $4800NZD reimbursement for hosting a student*
Host a student and enjoy up to 20% off the program fee, receive up to $4000AUD / $4800NZD reimbursement for hosting* plus a further $2500 discount when you book your own flights**
*The host a student reimbursement is a payment of $100AUD/$120NZD per week
**When you book your own flights, you will be required to adhere to specific travel dates and arrival times in the destination country. This offer does not include exchange programs to Thailand, Korea, or China.
As everybody is speaking about the FIFA World Cup, millions of people around the globe are gathering to cheer for their favourite teams, celebrate different cultures, and experience the excitement that only a global event can create. But while the World Cup lasts only a few weeks, there’s another international experience that can change your life forever: going on a youth exchange.
The Youth Empowerment Seminar is one of YFU’s largest international youth events, bringing together exchange students, volunteers, facilitators and educators from across the globe for an unforgettable week of learning, leadership and intercultural dialogue.
Cebrail, who spent a life-changing year on an exchange program from New Zealand to Turkey, reflects on his biggest discoveries and lessons learned.
Enquire today about this program. We’ve got experts ready to assist with any enquiry about the countries, programs and the process.
Simply register and attend one of our in-person Information Evenings and you will automatically get $100 off your program fee.
