Top 9 exchange destinations in 2025: a complete guide to countries and programs

Are you planning to do an exchange in 2025? Discovering the ideal destination is the first step in this transformative journey. To help you with this important decision, we have prepared a complete guide with the 9 best exchange countries, considering teaching quality, cost-benefit, and unique opportunities for personal and professional growth.

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Canada: academic excellence and quality of life

Canada stands out as one of the most sought after destinations for exchange, not only for its educational quality, but also for being one of the most welcoming and safe countries in the world. In 2024, it was ranked as the safest country for international travelers, with a whopping 80% of people feeling safe walking alone at night. Through the Public College in Canada, you have access to renowned institutions such as Humber College, which offers globally recognized academic programs.

What makes Canada special:

• Work permit of up to 24 hours a week during studies
• Multicultural environment with more than 450 different ethnicities and cultures
• Constantly updated education system among the best in the world
• Same rights and freedoms guaranteed to international students
• Ranked 2nd best country to live in in 2023 (U.S. News)
• Excellent immigration opportunities after graduation

Canadian society is renowned for its inclusive and progressive character, offering an environment where international students can truly be themselves while developing their academic and professional skills. This combination of safety, quality of life, and educational excellence makes Canada an ideal destination for those seeking a transformative exchange experience.

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Australia: opportunities and unique lifestyle

The experience of study and work in Australia became even more attractive in 2024, with the significant increase in the minimum wage to $24.10 per hour or $915.90 per week. This adjustment of 3.75% represents an extraordinary opportunity for exchange students who wish to combine quality studies with international professional experience.

International students in Australia can work part-time during term time and full time during school holidays. The labor market offers several opportunities:

• Part-time jobs in retail and hospitality
• Paid internships at local companies
• Casual jobs with flexible hours
• Seasonal opportunities in tourism and agriculture
• Remote work possibilities

An important differentiator is that international students have the same employment rights as Australians, including superannuation contributions when they earn more than $450 monthly. The increase in the minimum wage allows students not only to cover their basic expenses, but also to enjoy a higher quality of life, with housing possibilities in better locations, varied food and cultural activities.

The Brazilian-like climate, combined with paradisiacal beaches and an excellent educational system, makes Australia a complete destination for those seeking a transformative exchange experience.

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Ireland: tradition and innovation in harmony

Study and work in Ireland will become even more attractive in 2025, with the minimum wage increasing to €13.50 per hour. This significant change brings new perspectives to international students who wish to combine academic development with professional experience in a country rich in tradition and opportunities.

Programs start at 25 weeks, and students can work 20 hours a week during the course. The new minimum wage provides:

• Better management of housing and food costs
• Opportunities in technology and innovation sectors
• Possibility to build a robust international curriculum
• More resources for cultural and leisure activities
• Chance to develop valuable professional networking

A differential of Ireland is the possibility of obtaining a visa upon arrival in the country, reducing the initial bureaucracy. The welcoming and safe environment, combined with the privileged location for exploring Europe, makes the country an excellent choice for those seeking to perfect their English while building an international career. Irish companies are known for offering competitive and fair conditions for international employees, creating an environment conducive to professional development during studies.

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Arab Emirates: modernity and opportunities

The United Arab Emirates, especially Dubai, has become one of the most sought after destinations for exchange, combining exceptional modernity with unique professional opportunities. Study and work in the United Arab Emirates offers a truly transformative experience, with Dubai being ranked as the 5th best city in the world to live in.

The labor market in Dubai is extremely dynamic, offering opportunities in several sectors:

• Hospitality: 5-star hotels, luxury resorts and international restaurants
• Retail: shopping malls, luxury boutiques and major international chains
• Services: multilingual support, tourism and events
• Multinational companies: IBM, HP, Oracle, Nestle and Brazilian companies

An important differential is that salaries are tax-free and often include attractive benefits such as housing assistance, transportation, health insurance, and even annual airline tickets at some companies. The student visa process is simplified and, unlike other destinations, does not require financial proof.

The city offers a unique cultural experience, blending Arab traditions with cosmopolitan modernity. With over 200 nationalities living together harmoniously, the environment is ideal for global networking and professional development. English is the most used everyday language, creating a perfect environment for improving the language while working and studying.

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Germany: accessible education and promising prospects

A experience of studying and working in Germany stands out for offering low-cost higher education, even for international students. The German education system is recognized worldwide and is divided into two main aspects: the Universities (Universitäten), focused on academic teaching and research, and the Universities of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschulen), with an emphasis on practical and professional training.

International students are allowed to work up to 120 full days or 240 part-time periods a year, with a minimum wage of €12.41 per hour in 2024. Exchange benefits in Germany include:

• Bachelor (3-4 years), Master (1-2 years) and PhD (3-5 years) programs
• Course options in German and English, especially in graduate studies
• Possibility to remain 18 months after graduation to seek work
• Efficient and accessible health system
• Competitive cost of living compared to other European countries

The German labor market is especially receptive in the areas of technology, engineering, and business, with global companies always looking for international talent. The central location in Europe facilitates travel and cultural connections, allowing students to explore different countries during their stay.

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Malta: Mediterranean charm and practicality

With English as one of its official languages, Malta stands out as a unique exchange destination, combining quality education with an enchanting Mediterranean lifestyle. Study and work in Malta offers an extraordinary experience, with more than 300 days of sunshine a year and a cost of living approximately 20% lower than other European countries.

What makes Malta special for international students:

• Teaching English with a neutral accent and easy to understand
• Work permit during the course
• Schools certified with international standards
• Safe and welcoming environment for students
• Strategic location for exploring Europe
• Rich historical and cultural heritage

The island offers true linguistic and cultural immersion, where you can practice English not only in the classroom, but in every aspect of everyday life. Opportunities go beyond studying, including international internships, part-time work of up to 20 hours a week, and global networking with students from different countries.

The island's intimate environment, combined with its historical richness and modernity, creates ideal conditions for a complete educational experience. Cities like Valletta and Mdina provide a unique setting for cultural exploration, while Maltese hospitality makes for a smoother adjustment for international students.

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Spain: vibrant culture and professional development

A experience of studying and working in Spain offers a unique combination of academic development and professional opportunities. With programs starting at 24 weeks, the country stands out for its policies favorable to international students and a well-structured visa process.

The Spanish labor market offers especially attractive conditions for students:

• Permission to work up to 30 hours a week during term time
• Possibility to work full time during academic holidays
• Streamlined work permit process
• Minimum amount of financial proof of 7,200€
• Opportunity to remain up to 12 months after completing the course
• Possibility to convert student visa into residence after three years

An important differential is the process of transitioning from a student visa to permanent residence, which can take place in two ways: after three years of studies with a full-time job offer, or after completing the higher education, with a residence permit to search for employment for up to 12 months.

International students in Spain have access to several benefits, including discounts on public transport, access to the health system through insurance, and participation in European exchange programs. The welcoming atmosphere, combined with the pleasant climate and the rich cultural heritage, makes Spain an ideal destination for those seeking a complete international experience.

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United States: Diversity and Innovation

The United States offers a unique exchange experience, combining first-rate education with rich cultural diversity. The American education system stands out for its flexibility and its numerous opportunities, from High School even prestigious university programs.

The American education system offers exceptional benefits:

• Flexibility in the choice of disciplines and specialties
• Advanced (AP) courses that can count as college credits
• Modern infrastructure with state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities
• Strong integration between academic and extracurricular activities
• Internship opportunities at renowned companies
• Valuable international networking

The educational experience in the USA goes beyond the classroom, with unique school traditions such as “homecoming” and “prom”, in addition to a strong sports culture. Boarding schools, such as Léman Manhattan and Oak Hill Academy, offer specialized programs that combine academic excellence with personal and professional development.

The multicultural environment of American cities provides a complete immersion not only in the language, but also in the local culture. The exposure to different perspectives and experiences, added to the quality of teaching, prepares students for global challenges and opens doors to international professional opportunities.

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England: academic tradition and multiculturalism

England offers a unique educational experience, combining centuries of academic tradition with modern innovation. The British education system, especially through the High School, provides a complete and globally recognized education, with programs adapted to the needs of international students.

The British education differential includes:

• Renowned institutions with centuries of academic excellence
• Educational system that promotes critical thinking and independence
• Personalized programs with ongoing academic support
• Full immersion in British English
• International networking opportunities
• Rich cultural experience in historic and modern cities

For students choosing England, each city offers a unique experience. Manchester, for example, stands out as a vibrant center of culture and innovation, with its legendary music scene and prestigious universities. The city offers a diverse student community and a strategic location for exploring the rest of the country.

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Be Easy

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Na Be Easy, we understand that each person has unique objectives when planning an exchange. For this reason, we offer personalized support at every stage of the process, from choosing the destination to the adaptation in the chosen country. Our experienced team is ready to make your dream of studying abroad a reality.

Do you want to start your international journey? Contact Be Easy today and discover how we can help you choose the perfect destination for your exchange in 2025.