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Foreign Exchange

Foreign Exchange

📘 Norfolk Public Schools Foreign Exchange Student Program (J-1 Visa Only)
Building Global Citizenship Through Cultural Exchange

🌍 Our Philosophy

Norfolk Public Schools believes that as our world grows more interconnected, students must develop a strong sense of global citizenship. We proudly support international student exchange programs as essential opportunities for cross-cultural learning and personal growth.

🛂 Who Can Apply?

We welcome J-1 classified foreign exchange students who:

  • Hold valid J-1 Visa status
  • Are part of a U.S. State Department–approved exchange program
  • Are 18 years old or younger
  • Plan to return to their home country after the program
  • Have sufficient English proficiency to participate fully in school (not eligible for ESL services)

⚠️ Students with F-1 visas are not accepted.

📋 Application Checklist

To apply, the exchange program facilitator must provide:

✅ Translated & certified academic transcript (with curriculum info)
✅ Norfolk-based host family address
✅ J-1 Visa proof (e.g., DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility)
✅ Health insurance verification
✅ Physical exam & immunization records
✅ ACTFL Oral Proficiency Interview (OPI) results
✅ Minimum GPA of 2.0 (“C” average) in home country
✅ Optional: Permission for interscholastic sports
✅ Optional: Photo, student essay, or other supporting materials

📆 Important Dates

  • Application Window: July 1 – July 31
  • All Applications Processed by: August 15
  • Submit All Materials To:
    Mrs. Michele Johnson-Young
    Enrollment Administrator, Department of Student Support Services
    📧 mmjohnso@nps.k12.va.us

Exchange programs must have a local representative in the Hampton Roads area to supervise and support the student throughout the year.

📞 Questions?

Contact:
Department of Student Support Services
📞 (757) 628-3931