Stand with Cambodia — Together for Our Future

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)



Here are some of the most frequently asked questions for a high school exchange & academic programs in the U.S., broken down into key categories.

General Information

  • What does SOGO do? SOGO is your complete solution for studying abroad. Our team of experts will guide you through every step, from choosing the right school to preparing your application and getting you ready for your journey.
  • What is included in the program fee? The program fee includes:
    • Program fees
    • School application fees
    • Host family placement
    • Visa application assistance
    • Medical insurance
    • Training & Pre-departure orientation
    • Monthly reports from the local coordinator
    • Welcome camp in NY or LA
    • A 24-hour emergency hotline
  • What is not included in the program fee? The program fee does not include:
    • Airfare
    • Visa application & SEVIS fees
    • Personal expenses ($400-$500 per month)
    • School trips and extracurricular activities
    • Vaccinations and other medical assistance not covered by the insurance

Eligibility & Academics

  • What are the age requirements to apply? The J-1 program requires students to be 15-18 years old, while the F-1 program is for students who are 14-19 years old.
  • Do I have to be a top student? You don't need to have a perfect GPA, but you typically need a minimum of a C average in your core subjects. You also need to demonstrate maturity and adaptability.
  • What kind of English skills do I need? You must be proficient enough in English to follow classroom lessons and communicate effectively with your host family and friends. You will also require to pass the ELTIS test and English interview conducted by SOGO.
  • Can I choose my school or host family? ICES places you with a host family and in a high school based on a detailed matching process. The goal is to find the best fit for everyone while also catering to your preferred region.
  • Will my credits from the U.S. transfer back to my home school? It's important to check with your home school's administration to confirm their policy on credit transfers. The U.S. high school will provide you with a transcript, but it's up to your school at home to accept the credits.

Host Family & Life in the U.S.

  • Who are the host families? Host families come in all shapes and sizes! They can have young kids, teenagers, or no children at all. They are carefully screened through a rigorous process that includes background checks and in-home interviews.
  • Do I have to do chores? Yes! You are a member of the family, not a guest. You are expected to participate in daily family life, which includes doing chores, helping with dinner, and keeping your room clean.
  • What will I do for fun? You'll have plenty of opportunities to get involved! You can join sports teams, school clubs (like the debate team or student government), and social groups. Your host family and local coordinator will also help you explore the local community.
  • Can my family visit me? The purpose of an exchange program is for you to immerse yourself in American culture. For this reason, family visits must be coordinated with ICES at least 30 days in advance and are subject to their approval.
  • Where will I live during the program? You will live with a host family who will provide you with meals and accommodation.
  • Can I live with my family or relatives in the U.S.? No, exchange students are required to live with a host family. The purpose of the exchange program is to help you fully immerse yourself in American culture and daily life, which is a key component of the experience.
  • Is the living situation the same for the F-1 program? No, the F-1 visa program is different. While the J-1 program is designed for full cultural immersion and requires a host family stay, the F-1 Academic Program gives students the flexibility to choose their living situation, which can include a host family or a school dormitory.

Safety

  • Will I have support while in the U.S.? Yes. You will have a dedicated local coordinator who provides support and guidance throughout your entire stay. They will check in with you regularly and are your main contact for any questions or issues. We also provide a 24-hour emergency hotline for any urgent needs or concerns. Your safety is our top priority.

Logistics & Finances

  • What visa do I need? You need a J-1 visa, which is specifically for cultural exchange programs, or an F-1 visa for academic students. Both of these visas require you to return to your home country after the program ends.
  • Can I apply for a U.S. visa even without proof of funds? Proof of income is not a requirement during the visa interview process, but it is important to have proof of funds to show that your parents will be able to support you during your time in the program.
  • What are some examples of proof of funds? Examples of proof of funds can include bank statements, a business license, land titles, or a certificate of employment.