Ready to visit the United States?
You have come to the right place!
We welcome applicants as young as 13 into our programs each year from all over the world. We have programs for any length of stay and any time of year. Some programs have more flexibility than others so we are happy to match you with the program that is best for you!
Interested in an Academic Program?
First, we will determine if we have a partner near you. If so, we will direct them to contact you to tell you everything you need to know.
If we don’t have a partner near you, no worries! In some cases, we can work directly with the student and their family. Here are some basic program requirements you’ll need to know.
Summer, Short-term, and ELL programs
These are the most flexible. Tell us what you need, where you want to go, and what you’d like to do and we’re on it!
Choose from a variety of program length, add-ons and locations.
Academic Programs
At Terra Lingua USA each student in our program becomes a part of our family. As a small organization, we know you by name, not number. We take our responsibility to you seriously but you must also take your program success seriously. It is up to you to make the most of your program.
J1 Classic VIP Program
- Grades 9 to 12
- Public High School
- Credit received for classes
- Diploma not guaranteed
- No location guarantees. You’re matched with a family that’s the best fit for you.
- Ages 15 to 17.5
- Minimum English proficiency requirements
- Includes extra benefits!
Program time periods
- 5 months (September to January or January to May)
- 10 months (September to June).
J1 California VIP Program
- Grades 9 to 12
- Public High School
- Credit given for classes
- Diploma not guaranteed
- Guaranteed California Placement
- Ages 15 to 17.5
- Minimum English proficiency requirements
- Includes extra benefits and excursions!
Program time periods
- 5 months (September to January or January to May)
- 10 months (September to June).
J1 Texas VIP Program
- Grades 9 to 12
- Public High School
- Credit given for classes
- Diploma not guaranteed
- Guaranteed Texas placement
- Ages 15 to 17.5
- Minimum English proficiency requirements
- Includes extra benefits!
Program time periods
- 2 week to 3 months (September to April)
- 10 months (September to June)
Host families are carefully screened to match your hobbies and interests and live near your school. In some cases, you will bused to school, in others you may be driven or walk. You will be expected to follow all school rules as well as maintain good grades.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of people will my host family be?
Terra Lingua USA host families are volunteers who are warm and caring people who gladly open their homes and hearts to students. They wish to learn more about international cultures and to share their family and lifestyle with their new son or daughter. As a member of the family, you will participate in all family activities including mealtimes, and assume the same responsibilities and family rules as your host siblings.
Families interested in hosting students in this program may chose, based on availability, gender, age, country, and length of placement. The academic program offers the best chance to build a friendship!
What kind of school will I attend?
You will attend a school near your new home. You will be expected to attend all classes, follow school rules, complete your homework, and maintain a minimum grade of C in every class. Because of the language barrier your first month or two may be difficult but you should never hesitate to ask for help from your teachers and host family. Your stay in the program depends on your academic success.
Host families are asked to assist their student with everyday school needs including homework and extracurricular activities.
What are the eligibility requirements?
- - Student must be between the ages of 15 and 17 ½. (Age 14 considered with additional screening)
- - Have studied English language at least two years; meet minimum English proficiency scores
- - Possess a GPA of 3.0 or better. No grades below C please!
- - Possess a mature, open and flexible attitude
What is expected of me?
Your host family will support you and assist you throughout your time in the program. You, in turn, will be expected to respect your host family and listen to their rules and expectations. Some of our expectations are:
- - Students must always be respectful of their host family, Representatives, classmates, and school officials. Disrespect, verbal abuse, selfishness, chronic rudeness, lying, and slander will not be tolerated.
- - Follow host family rules. This will include cleaning up after yourself and helping with chores.
- - Your host family has not been paid to host you. They have volunteered wishing to promote international student exchange. Remember to show appreciation and use good manners.
- - Have an open mind. Don’t judge whether the lifestyle is better or worse than what you are used to. Accept it as different and a learning experience for you.
- - Communicate - Ask questions if you don’t understand.
- - Be flexible and adaptable. Remember not to judge, but accept as different! Go with the flow!
- - Make Friends - Take the extra steps to get to know people.
- - Enjoy School - Be respectful of your teachers. Take your academic progress seriously.
What kind of support network is available?
All students coming to Terra Lingua USA programs have a local Community Coordinator to assist them throughout the program. Additionally, access to the National Coordinator and National Office is available. Someone is always there to assist you. You will be able to count on them for any support you may need.
Host families are offered the same 24/7 support!
