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...
Valentine's Day Traditions from Different Countries
💘 Did you know that Valentine's Day isn't just celebrated the same way everywhere? 🌍 From sweet treats to unique customs, discover how different countries around the world celebrate love! Check out our latest blog post on Valentine's Day traditions from other countries. 💌 READ BLOG
Cross-Cultural Photo Scavenger Hunt
🔎 Ready for a fun and interactive way to explore cultural differences? Whether you're indoors or outside, our Cross-Cultural Scavenger Hunt is a great activity for exchange students, host families, and friends to learn about traditions, customs, and daily life from around the world—all while having a blast! 🏡🌳 Choose between an indoor version for cozy gatherings or an outdoor adventure to make the most of your surroundings. Either way, you’ll be stepping into a new perspective and discovering just how much culture shapes the little things in life. Check out the scavenger hunt here! ⬇️ 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
15 Fun Indoor Activities for Long Winter Evenings
❄️Cold winter evenings don't have to be boring! Check out these ideas for turning a dark winter evening into a memorable celebration of family fun!❄️ READ BLOG
Explore the Culture Iceberg!
Did you know culture is like an iceberg? The stuff you see—like food, music, and holidays—is just the tip! Dive into this post to uncover all the hidden, fascinating layers beneath the surface. It’s a game-changer for understanding exchange students (or anyone, really)! Check it out! 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
What Your Exchange Student Should Know About U.S. Etiquette
Did you know that customs around punctuality, personal space, and greetings differ across cultures? Here are some helpful tips to support your exchange student as they adjust to some of the subtler aspects of American culture. 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 - 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