Does a language exchange count for immigration or just a higher education course?
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The answer is not as simple as a “yes” or “no”, in fact, it varies a lot depending on the country chosen and your personal goals. We will clarify this issue country by country, with updated information that will help you make the best decision.
How does scoring work in immigration systems
Before we dive into the details of each destination, it's important to understand that most developed countries use scoring systems to evaluate immigration candidates. These systems consider factors such as age, academic background, professional experience, fluency in the local language and, of course, whether you have qualifications obtained in your own country.
And here's the crux: studying languages abroad can dramatically improve your fluency, but it's the higher education diplomas that really make the difference in the immigration score.
Canada: the country of graduate opportunities
In Canada, the difference between language exchange and higher education is very clear when it comes to immigration.
Language courses in Canada
Make one language exchange in Canada it will help you a lot to improve your English proficiency and this is essential! Having a good language level is one of the most important criteria in the Express Entry system. But here's the thing: just studying language doesn't add up direct points in the immigration system.
What really counts are the results of the official proficiency tests (IELTS, CELPIP). So yes, your language exchange may prepare you to beat those tests, but the points come from the grade you get, not from the course itself.
Canadian higher education: the big difference
Now, if you opt for a Public College in Canada Or a Private Co-op College, then the story changes completely!
Graduations, postgraduates, and technical courses taken in Canada not only count on extra points in Express Entry, but also entitle you to the PGWP (Post-Graduation Work Permit). As we explained in our article about How to check if your course is eligible for PGWP in Canada, this work visa may be your gateway to permanent residence.
The Canadian professional experience, gained through the PGWP, is worth gold in the scoring system. It's literally the perfect combination: education + local professional experience.
Germany: tradition, quality and diverse paths
Germany has a slightly different approach, but equally interesting for those thinking about immigration.
German language courses: more than grammar
In Germany, the integration course (Integrationskurs) goes far beyond the language, it includes German culture, history, and citizenship. Completing this course is a mandatory requirement for those who want permanent residence and may even reduce the time needed to apply for citizenship by naturalization (from 8 to 7 years).
But beware: isolated language courses, unrelated to integration or higher education, do not count direct points for qualified immigration. However, they are essential for adaptation and may be required for other types of visas.
German higher education: the path to excellence
Study and work in Germany through higher education it's a fantastic strategy. The country highly values undergraduate and graduate degrees, making it easier to obtain work and residence visas.
The interesting thing is that Germany has the system of Blue Card EU, which greatly facilitates the lives of highly qualified professionals. Having a German degree can be your differential in obtaining this type of visa.
Australia: the most direct point system
Australia has no middle ground, the SkillSelect system is very specific about what counts points.
Australian language exchange
Do an English exchange at Australia It does not add up direct points in the immigration system. What counts are the results of the official tests (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL). But here's the secret: the experience of living in the country can give you the fluency you need to get high marks on these tests.
Many students we follow up report that they were able to significantly improve their scores on proficiency tests after a few months of living and studying in Australia.
Australian higher education: guaranteed points
Technical and university courses of at least two years taken in Australia count on extra points in the immigration system, especially if they are related to your professional area. This is what we call the “Australian study requirement”.
In addition, Australian graduates are entitled to a temporary work visa (subclass 485), which can range from 18 months to 4 years, depending on the course and the location where they studied.
New Zealand: quality of life and opportunities
New Zealand follows a similar line to Australia, but with its peculiarities.
New Zealand language exchange
Study English in New Zealand allows you to study and, in some cases, work part-time. However, it does not add up direct points for immigration. The difference lies in the fluency you develop and the grades you obtain in the official tests.
New Zealand higher education: the safe path
University and technical courses at level 7 or higher are valued and make it much easier to apply for permanent residence. The country has a very welcoming policy for local graduates, offering post-study work visas that can lead to permanent residence.
Ireland: flexibility with a focus on higher education
Ireland has become increasingly popular among Brazilians, but it's important to understand its specific rules.
Irish English exchange
Study English in Ireland allows you to work part time and it's an incredible experience! The language student visa (Stamp 2) can be renewed several times, which gives flexibility to those who want to experience life in the country.
However, this type of visa does not lead directly to permanent residence. For permanent immigration, what really counts are university courses and qualified professional experience, as highlighted in our article on Work part-time during an exchange.
Irish higher education: the golden key
Undergraduate and graduate studies at Irish institutions are direct paths to work visas and, subsequently, permanent residence. The country has specific programs to retain locally trained talent.
Which path to choose for your goals?
The choice between language exchange and higher education depends a lot on your personal goals and current situation.
Choose language exchange if:
- Do you want to test the country before a larger commitment
- You need to significantly improve your language level
- Do you have a more limited budget initially
- Do you want to gain international experience before graduation
- Seeks flexibility to explore different destinations
Opt for higher education if:
- Its main purpose is permanent immigration.
- You already have a good language level
- Do you want to maximize your chances in the points system?
- Search for international professional qualification
- Are you able to make a larger investment in the long term
Smart strategies: combining exchange and higher education
One strategy that many of our clients adopt is to start with a language exchange to “test the waters” and then migrate to higher education in the same country. This allows you to:
- Gradual adaptation To the country and culture
- Language improvement before higher studies
- Local networking From the start
- Long-term economy with better planning
- Increased security When choosing higher education
For example, many students study English in Canada for 6 months, return to Brazil to prepare financially and academically, and then return to a Canadian college or university.
The importance of strategic planning
Regardless of the path chosen, planning is essential. Each country has its own peculiarities, deadlines and specific requirements. What works for Canada may not be ideal for Australia, and vice versa.
That's why we always recommend a personalized analysis of your situation. Factors such as age, professional area, current language level, financial situation, and personal goals greatly influence the best strategy for each person.
Be Easy
After reading all of this, you may be wondering, “Okay, but what is the best path for ME specifically?” It's a very valid question that doesn't have a single answer for everyone.
At Be Easy, our mission is exactly that: to understand your dreams, analyze your current situation, and design a personalized plan that makes sense for your life. We have been helping Brazilians turn their dream of living abroad into reality for over 17 years, and each story is unique.
Get in touch with us today! We will understand your objectives and show you which path can take you faster and more safely to your dream destination. After all, it's not just about studying abroad, it's about building the future you've always wanted.
