Explore the World with
Nacel Open Door
Explore the World with
Nacel Open Door
Extraordinary experiences. Lasting friendships. Moments that can change your life. Discover a world outside your own with Nacel Open Door’s (NOD) student exchange programs.
Enter NOD's Mid-Year Video Contest
Do you have a favorite memory or a glimpse into everyday life from your exchange experience? Enter our Mid-Year Video Contest by submitting a short video for a chance to win gift cards and NOD gear!
Entry deadline is February 16, 2026
NOD News
Explore some highlights from our students, host families, and local reps that showcase the impact of cultural exchange and community connections.
Join Our NOD Team Today!
Are you fascinated by other cultures? Passionate about connecting with others? Excited about international student exchange? If so, Nacel Open Door has the perfect opportunity for you!
NOD is seeking outgoing, self-motivated individuals who enjoy making their own schedules and building relationships that last a lifetime. As a Local Representative, your primary responsibility is to match international exchange students with American host families and high schools in your community.
Learn more about the Local Rep role and apply today!
Programs Abroad
CBYX Vocational
The Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX) Vocational Scholarship Program allows U.S. high school seniors to spend the year after graduation in Germany pursuing vocational interests.
Outbound Opportunities
American students can learn the culture and language of a foreign country by living with a host family and experiencing their daily life and activities.
NISS
The Nacel International School System (NISS) supports schools and students globally with exceptional international educational opportunities via administrative counsel and support and access to culturally immersive experiences through the network of Nacel Open Door programs and partners.
Study In the U.S.
Academic Year Program
Enjoy the classic foreign exchange experience with the Academic Year Program. Requiring a J-1 visa and focusing on cultural exchange, this program offers the opportunity to live with a host family, attend an American high school, and explore American culture for an academic semester or year.
Private School Program
Academically focused students with F-1 visas can study at a private American high school for multiple years, earn a U.S. high school diploma, and will live with a supportive host family throughout the length of their program.
Short Term Programs
Experience educational and recreational American culture firsthand by living with a host family for 1–5 weeks.
About NOD
Discover the World. Unlock Your Potential.
Since 1957, Nacel Open Door, Inc. has promoted programs and opportunities aimed at students who want to broaden their perspective of the world and gain practical experience living, working, and learning in another culture.
Enhance Your Worldview by Hosting a Student
By opening your home to a Nacel Open Door student, you will provide a life-changing experience for a talented and bright young person, while also broadening your horizons and enhancing your own worldview.
"We have been first time parents, and it was so great. We have had the most enriching and rewarding experience of my life. It wasn't the easiest, but it was the best." - Former AYP Host Family
Explore the World with NOD
With Nacel Open Door’s variety of foreign exchange programs—short term and long term, in the U.S. and abroad, and at schools of all different kinds—you’ll explore the world, make lifelong connections, and discover new cultures.
“I totally enjoyed my year. Thank you for making it possible for students like me to travel abroad!”
Explore Incoming Student Profiles
Discover the profiles of our incoming students for 2025-26 who are eager to join a loving host family and experience life in the U.S.! Each profile highlights their interests and what they hope to gain, helping you find the perfect match for your family. We invite you to explore their profiles and welcome one into your home!
Make An Impact
From becoming a host family to joining our team as a local representative or coordinator, Nacel Open Door has many ways in which you can benefit from our worldwide programs.
