1. How old must participants be? 

The Franco-Finnish exchange programs are open to students aged from 14 to 18. 

2. How long do the exchange programmes last? 

Exchanges usually last two to three weeks, first in Finland and then in France, or the other way around. This duration allows the participants to have a real linguistic and cultural immersion, while still fitting around the school calendars in both countries. 

3. Do the participants have to speak French fluently? 

No, but students need at least level A1 (beginner) so they can manage simple everyday situations, especially as some host family members may not speak English. The aim of the exchange is to help students make fast progress by living the French language and culture day to day. 

4. How can students sign up? 

Applications are handled by the student’s French teacher. Teachers submit them to the French Institute of Finland using a dedicated form. 

5. Who organizes the exchange? 

The French Institute of Finland collects applications and coordinates the exchanges with partner school districts (académies) in France. In Finland, the teachers in charge of the exchange support students throughout the project and are the main point of contact for families. You can find the Finnish schools that have already taken part in the program on this map. 

6. Where do participants stay? 

Finnish students stay with their exchange partner’s family in France, and later host their partner in Finland. During the stay, participants share in everyday life with their host family: family time, school, activities, and hobbies. 

7. How do students get around locally? 

For the whole stay, the host family takes care of getting the exchange partner to school and to other daily activities. 

8. What happens in a medical emergency? 

Every participant must carry a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), issued by Kela, the Finnish Social Insurance Institution. If needed, the host family will help the student with the necessary steps and make sure they get appropriate care.

o learn more about our exchange tips, we encourage you to discover the recording of our earlier exchange debrief, available here (in French and Finnish). 

1. Get involved in family life 

In France, families often spend a lot of time together, especially at mealtimes, and dinner is usually eaten together in the evening. Try not to spend too much time alone in your room or with your headphones on. Join in with what’s going on at home instead. 

2. Dare to speak, even if your French isn’t perfect 

Don’t wait until your French is perfect before you start chatting. French people enjoy talking, asking questions, and learning about your country. Tell them about Finland, your school, your daily routine, and the things you love. That’s what cultural exchange is all about. 

3. Talk to your host family before your arrival 

Before you go, it’s a good idea to talk about dates, house rules and routines, schedules, outings, getting around on your own, phone use, and so on. The clearer everything is from the start, the better. 

4. Accept that things will be a little different 

Indeed! Life in France won’t be exactly the same as in Finland, either at home or at school. You’ll probably notice differences in habits and the way things are done. 

5. Pay attention to school rules 

Expectations at a French lycée (high school) are stricter than in Finland when it comes to behavior, class participation, punctuality, and attitude. Teachers expect more discipline, and you can’t just leave the classroom whenever you like. It’s important to listen carefully and follow instructions. 

6. Be a little more careful when you’re out and about 

As with any trip abroad, it’s important to be cautious. Finland is an exceptionally safe country, so France may require a bit more vigilance, particularly on public transport, in the city, and with your personal belongings. Follow your host family’s advice and stay alert when you’re getting around. 

7. Speak up quickly if something is wrong 

If you don’t understand something or feel uncomfortable, don’t let the situation drag on. The best thing to do is to talk about it calmly with your host family or your exchange coordinator (the teacher in charge of your exchange). Most problems come from misunderstandings and can be solved by talking things through. 

8. Bring a small gift from Finland 

Bringing your host family a small gift that’s typically Finnish is much appreciated. It doesn’t need to be expensive. A simple, personal gesture is best: a Finnish specialty, a handmade item, or a small souvenir that represents your country. It’s a lovely way to thank your host family right from the start and to build a first connection. 

9. Share your experience 

During your stay, you might like to take photos, film short videos, or even put together a mini-documentary about your time in France, always with respect for your host family. With your teacher’s approval, you can then present it to your class when you get back. It’s a great way to keep the exchange going and to let other students discover the experience. 

10. Enjoy every moment 

This is a wonderful experience, and you’ll remember it for the rest of your life. So make the most of it!