The German students typically arrive in Australia in mid of June and stay for approximately ten weeks. During their time in Australia, the student will attend school and Wintercamp and also participate in activities such as Melbourne Regional Day. It is preferable for host siblings to be in Years 10-12 at school as the Germany students will be 16-18 years of age. Whilst a basic knowledge of German is recommended for the host sibling, it is far more important for the host family to have a wide variety of interests and be prepared to welcome a student from another country. The German students already have a sound knowledge of English with one aim of their time in Australia being to extend their communication skills and knowledge of the English language.
Interested local students and families from all regions are considered equally. Whilst host families are asked to welcome and accept a German student into their home, the student must also adapt to the host family's routine. The host family is not expected to change its lifestyle during the student's time in Australia. Whilst many host families enjoy taking their German students to attractions locally or interstate, this is by no means obligatory.
Valuable and long lasting friendships are formed through our exchange program. Hosting an exchange student provides all participants the opportunity to broaden their understanding of current issues and everyday life in both Australia and Germany. Furthermore, communication between a German student and the Australian host family is not only beneficial and rewarding but promotes cultural understanding for all involved.
German students are required to attend school with their host brother or sister for the duration of their time in Australia. This provides students with the opportunity to meet Australian students of similar age and to gain a greater understanding of Australian schools and our education system. Each school is encouraged to provide the German student with a personal timetable and assign her or him to specific classes to ensure she or he receives the full benefits of the school experience with minimal disruption to classes. This, however, is at the discretion of the school. The German students’ experiences can be greatly enhanced if they are allowed to attend different classes at different levels to facilitate language development and a wider appreciation of Australian culture.
The German students are not required to complete homework. The German students are not required to further their academic qualifications during this period, rather it is intended that the experience will broaden the students' outlooks. The students are required to abide by all school rules, including wearing uniform if this is compulsory. As the length of the stay does not warrant the purchase of a school uniform, a loan from the school or friends is recommended.
Host families will be responsible for the student during their stay. Board or fees of any description will not be paid by SAGSE or by the student. Students will carry a sum of spending money enabling them to meet extra costs, such as independent travel. All students will be fully insured upon their arrival in Australia. Health insurance is covered by Medibank Private and is coordinated by SAGSE.
There will be a camp (organised by GASS) for the German students and their host siblings, during the July school holidays. The German students will all have paid for this camp in advance.
Representatives of both SAGSE and GASS will be in contact with host families before and during the German student's stay. The SAGSE and GASS Host Family Coordinators will organise interviews with the families who have applied and be available to answer queries regarding the program. Host families will also receive the GASS newsletter, informing them of social and other events organised by GASS. The SAGSE Host Family Local Coordinators will be in touch with host families and host schools periodically by phone throughout the German student's stay to make sure everything is running smoothly and to provide further support or help which may be required.
 |
Listen to a radio interview by SBS German Radio with a host family who recently hosted a German Exchange Student in Melbourne about their experience (in German):
|
Families interested in hosting a German Exchange Student have to apply in order to be selected for the program. SAGSE selects based on interviews and home family visits. Links to Application Form for the Host Family and Consent Form from the School are listed below. Representative of both SAGSE and GASS will interview all applicant families. Applications will typically close at the beginning of the calendar year. Interviews and the selection process typically will take place between February and April.
The German students undertake an intense interview process before becoming one of the selected students from hundreds, based on their academic ability, interpersonal skills, cultural knowledge and interest and enthusiasm for Australia. German students and families are matched by the organisation to try and bring together those with similar interests.
If you are interested in hosting a German student, follow the link below to download the application form or head to our Forms & Documents page.
Hosting a German Exchange Student
2026 Host Family Application Form - VIC
2026 School Consent Form Host Family - VIC