STS sites use cookies to give you the best experience possible. By continuing to use our site you agree to the use of cookies.
Global
Experience the Aussie lifestyle
In lovely Australia, you will experience a high school life like nowhere else. Australia offers something for everyone; it is a modern country with vibrant big cities, amazing beaches and mesmerising nature. It is a vast continent with fantastic wildlife, coral reefs, and believe it or not – snowy mountains. When the European summer ends, the Australian one starts, which means that it is the perfect destination for European high school students who indeed do not mind sunshine and a pleasant climate all year round.
With STS High School Select, you choose where in Australia you want to study yourself. Whether you want to live the high school dream in Sydney, learn how to surf on the Sunshine Coast or enjoy the city life in prospering Brisbane, we have options that will suit you perfectly. Why not take the chance to study a subject that is not available in your home country, such as marine science for instance? Just tell us what is the most important for you, and we will help you find the school and area that best fits this. No matter if it is the academy, geography, or free time activities that influence your decision, we will help you customise the perfect high school exchange for you.
Area: 7 692 km2
Population: 24 million
Capital: Canberra
Language: English
Largest city: Sydney (4.9 million)
Country code: +61
Your carefully selected host family will open their arms for you and you will have a great time experiencing the Aussie way of life from the inside. Look forward to barbeques and picnics with your new family.
Responsibility, safety and quality that’s been our motto since 1958. We have the passion and the experience that will make your adventure as an exchange student a memorable success.
The Australian educational system is considered one of the most innovative in the world. Thousands of exchange students enrol at Australian high schools and universities every year. You will find the schools are modern, with well equipped classrooms as standard.
High school makes up the last five years of the 12 year school system in Australia. Most exchange students are placed in Year 11, some in Year 10 and very few in Year 12. As the seasons are in opposite when compared to Europe, Australians have their two month summer holiday from December to January. The school year begins in January and ends in December. As an STS exchange student, you can begin in either January, April, July or October. There will be Welcome Camps for those starting in July and January.
If you are placed in Year 10, most of the subjects you take are mandatory and include English, mathematics and geography. In Year 11, it is common that only English is a mandatory subject. The rest is up to you. The unique range of subjects on offer is incredible, such as marine biology, multimedia studies, performing arts, Indonesian language and Aboriginal studies. Alongside these are thrilling sports like surfing and diving.
In most Australian high schools it is mandatory for all students to buy their own school uniform. No need to think about what to wear on your first day at school. Put on your uniform and join your new awesome Aussie friends!
The Aussies are warm hearted, caring and welcoming. The country is multicultural since most of its population have immigrated from different parts of the world. This has created an overall open-minded mentality. Your carefully selected host family will probably be social, friendly and humorous. You will soon notice that Australians like to joke – even at their own expense!
Australian families are usually quite active and you may go on outings and picnics together. It could be a road trip to a nearby beach or a bike ride up in the mountains. For many families, weekends are dedicated to a variety of different sports. Join them for a true Australian experience!
When you choose Australia for your high school exchange you get a programme tailored after your preferences. After telling us what you find important for your Aussie exchange, we will help you find the perfect school. Grab the chance and embark on a learning adventure!
Which schools are the best? That depends on your interests and taste. In Australia, you can make your decision based upon your preferred region, for how long you want to study and which subjects and activities you wish to take at school. Certain schools are great for a special sport or hobby. Others offer subjects that you might find interesting, such as multimedia, surfing, marine biology, drama or art. You will soon find the school that fits you like a glove!
STS collaborates with several states in Australia, offering a wealth of options to choose from. Each of these states offers unique locations, attractions and academic opportunities, and each is sure to provide unforgettable high school experiences.
New South Wales, located in eastern Australia, is home to great cities, beautiful beaches, national parks and even ski resorts. Queensland, also known as "The Sunshine State," boasts idyllic beaches, lush rainforests and tropical islands. South Australia offers fascinating landscapes, year-round festivals and exotic wildlife, including koalas, kangaroos and dolphins. Western Australia is an adventure lover's dream, with otherworldly desert landscapes, pristine beaches and water sports as a vital part of everyday life. Victoria is home to stunning coastal roads, varied sceneries and Melbourne, one of the country's most exciting and beloved cities. Finally, Tasmania is a natural wonder, with rugged mountains, craggy coastlines and pristine forest trails with epic waterfalls.
Which of these fantastic states do you want to call home?
Australia is full of possible outdoor activities. Largely thanks to a great climate. Barbecues, sports and outings in the wilderness are some of the most common alternatives. Also, the exciting wildlife is not to be missed. Have you ever seen a koala bear or a kangaroo? Well, now is the time!
Sporty or not, the Australian enthusiasm will probably make you curious to try, or maybe just watch, some of the nation's most popular sports. Rugby, golf and Australian rules football are played in the winter and cricket, snorkelling, sailing, tennis and volleyball in the summer. The coastline is full of great beaches, perfect for every kind of water activity. If you prefer to ski, you'll find great snowy slopes in the mountains.
What after school activities you can choose from in your area will soon be clear. Your host family can give you tips and inform you about gyms, riding stables, handball teams or karate lessons in the neighbourhood.
If you stay in Australia for a whole year, you will have the possibility to go on two amazing extra trips. During the school break in September, we pack our swim and sports gear to visit Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef. The activities in focus will be mostly about beach life and water sports. In April, it's time for another break and another trip, this time for two weeks. We will head out to the Australian Outback, explore Uluru (Ayers Rock), travel along the Great Ocean Road and also make a stop in super exciting Sydney. There will be an additional cost for these trips.
Studying at high school in Australia will give you the time of your life. Here are some quick facts about school life here, and what is included your High School Select package.
Interested in choosing where you want to study and where you want to live? STS can help you choose the school of your liking that supports your favorite sport, academic etc.
The easiest way to apply is to visit the page of your favorite destination and click the "Apply now" button. Your application is not binding, and you make your final decision once you have been accepted.
Yes, no matter where you go, we have a local representative on your location. He or she selects our host families, has contact with schools and will be your supporter and advisor during your exchange.
Yes, we have several scholarships to apply for each year. We are also happy to guide you in the application for other grants.
You can choose if you want to attend a public or a private school with High School Select.
Yes, with High School Select you have an increased possibility to choose schools depending on their specific sport profiles.
