The Last Participant of the 2025–2026 Academic Year Program Departed Today for the Spring Semester

U.S. schools do not have a single, nationwide start date for classes. Depending on the state—and in some cases even the school district—the academic calendar may vary. As a result, exchange program participants travel to the United States at different times and follow individual travel routes.

On January 16, the last participant of the 2025–2026 academic year exchange program departed for the United States on an independent flight, beginning the journey from Moscow. This marked the completion of all departures for participants joining the program for the spring semester. For one more student, participation in the program has become an opportunity to experience studying at an American school and living in a host community.

Over the past week, three participants of the school exchange program arrived in the United States. Each traveled from a different departure point:

What all three journeys had in common was the format of independent travel, involving two—and in some cases three—connecting flights.

For students without prior experience in international travel, such routes require careful attention to detail. Connecting airports, document checks, immigration procedures, and navigating unfamiliar environments all become part of the journey. For this reason, all participants completed a mandatory pre-departure briefing prior to travel.

During the preparation process, key topics were reviewed in detail, including document verification, U.S. border and immigration procedures, and basic organizational aspects of the first days after arrival. Particular attention was given to transit procedures and navigation in major international airports.

Upon arrival in the United States, the participants were welcomed by their host families. The first days marked the beginning of the adaptation period, including introductions to the host family, the new school, the U.S. education system, and everyday life within the host community. This initial stage—from travel to the first days of school—is an important part of the overall exchange program experience.

Interviews with program participants are available on the project website, where they share details about their travel routes, first impressions of their host families, and the start of their studies at American schools.

For those considering participation in the exchange program in the next academic year, a preliminary application form is also available on the website.