International Cultural Exchange Services
(ICES)
ICES is an international nonprofit student academic and exchange organization dedicated to promoting a peaceful world by increasing international awareness and cultural understanding. We are a team of experienced professionals who are passionate about offering quality and affordable student academic and exchange programs for international and American students. We've been loving what we do since 1991, when the company was founded, and we are amazed by the remarkable achievements of our international and American exchange students.
Young people participate in student exchange programs for various reasons. They want to experience another culture, become more mature, meet international friends and improve their language abilities. American families participate with the desire to share their homes and lifestyles, broaden their knowledge of other cultures and encourage better world relations. Local schools are eager to participate in youth exchange for the many benefits their students receive by interacting with other students from around the world. ICES is committed to helping students, families and schools reach these goals.
Sign up today for one of our student programs, become a host family, explore our new internship and trainee program, or work with us to help promote a range of rewarding inter-cultural experiences! Your adventure begins here!
LEARN MORE ABOUT ICES
Recent ICES NEWS...
2024 Bridging Cultures Scholarship Winners
Congratulations to the winners of the 2024 Bridging Cultures Scholarship! We're proud to introduce them and share their winning essays with you. LEARN MORE
Host family surprises exchange student with visit from his parents
We were deeply moved by the beautiful segment on the TODAY SHOW featuring one of our exchange students from Michigan, Lorenzo, getting a surprise reunion with his parents from Italy. It reminded us of the magic and love that our exchange program fosters. We're seeking host families for the 2024/2025 school year, hoping to create more heartwarming moments like Lorenzo's. Visit https://www.icesusa.org or call 800-344-3566 to learn how families can be part of this meaningful journey. LEARN MORE
ICES Bridging Cultures Scholarship 2024
Do you know an American college-bound teen who's looking for $$$? ICES will be awarding $17,000 in scholarships to globally-minded teens this spring! Application deadline: April 3, 2024. LEARN MORE
ICES Global Ambassador Program
The Global Ambassador Program is back! This is a volunteer program for American high school students in which they learn valuable leadership skills and cross-cultural understanding by providing peer support to exchange students. LEARN MORE
Accepting Host Family Applications
Now is a great time to consider hosting a student for next semester or school year. Learn more about the ICES Host Family Program! LEARN MORE
ANNOUNCING NEW PROGRAM: Internship & Professional Training
The program is open to international college/university students who are currently enrolled or recently graduated. ICES is welcoming and matching American companies with qualified applicants. LEARN MORE
ADDITIONAL STUDY ABROAD COUNTRIES
We are happy to provide our American high school teens the opportunity to study in Australia and New Zealand next year. LEARN MORE
Work with us
Interested in working in the student exchange and academic field? Contact ICES today to learn more about the opportunities available. LEARN MORE
Recent ICES Blog posts...
The Cherry Blossom Festival and the Magic of Spring
🌸 Spring is in the air, and that means it's time for one of the most breathtaking sights of the season—the Cherry Blossom Festival! 🌸 Whether you're admiring the delicate pink blooms in Washington, D.C., or learning about the deep cultural significance behind this annual celebration, there's something truly magical about cherry blossoms in full bloom. READ BLOG
Spring Break Adventures: Day Trips That Exchange Students Love
Spring break is almost here, and it’s the perfect excuse to step away from your daily routine and spend quality bonding time with your exchange student. READ BLOG
The Ultimate Study Abroad Packing List
✈️ Packing for a year abroad? We've got you covered with must-have essentials, clever packing hacks, and even what not to bring. 🧳✨ Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime! READ BLOG
How Are American Traditions Influenced by Global Cultures?
🌍🇺🇸 Ever wonder how American traditions got their unique flavor? From Oktoberfest celebrations to Lunar New Year parades, global cultures have shaped the way we celebrate, eat, and connect. 🍜🎆 Dive into the fascinating ways international influences have woven into American life! READ BLOG
Choosing an Exchange Student: What Country Should I Host From?
So many amazing cultures, so little time! If you’re ready to host an exchange student but can’t decide which country to choose, we’ve got you covered! Our latest blog post gives you an inside look at what teens from different countries are like. You never know—your perfect student match might be from a country you’ve never even considered! Click to explore! 🌎 READ BLOG
A Single Mom’s Unexpected Journey: Building a Global Family
When a single mom of four decided to host an exchange student, she never imagined it would change her life forever. What started with one student from Brazil grew into a global family of nine. Read her inspiring story of love, culture, and lifelong connections. READ BLOG
Why You Should Choose Your Next Exchange Student Now
Choosing your exchange student early has so many perks—from finding the perfect match to planning exciting adventures together. 🏡📚 Check out our latest blog to learn why now is the best time to start your hosting journey! READ BLOG
How to Become a Host Family: Step-by-Step Guide
You have friends or neighbors who've hosted an exchange student. But what does it take to get one of those cool kids in your home? Here's everything you need to know! READ BLOG
Recent ICES NEWSLETTERS...
ICES Newsletter - March 2025
ICES Newsletter - February 2025
ICES Newsletter - January 2025
ICES Newsletter - December 2024
ICES Newsletter - November 2024
ICES Newsletter - October 2024
ICES Newsletter - September 2024
ICES Newsletter - July 2024
ICES Newsletter - June 2024
ICES Newsletter - May 2024
ICES Newsletter - April 2024
ICES Newsletter - March 2024
ICES Newsletter - February 2024
ICES Newsletter - January 2024
ICES Newsletter - Fall 2023
ICES Newsletter - Spring 2023
ICES Newsletter - Holidays 2022
ICES Newsletter - October 2022
ICES Newsletter - September 2022
ICES Newsletter - Summer 2022
ICES Newsletter - April 2022
ICES Newsletter - Winter 2022
ICES Newsletter - November 2021