Your academic abilities are extremely important for both exchange programs and full-time high school study abroad. Since you are currently in high school now, make sure to complete this semester/year with the highest grades possible. In particular, with the case of high school exchange programs, if you do not have good grades to begin with, your school in Japan may not support your participation and your credits may not be recognized. With regard to English language abilities, the stronger you are, the smoother your adjustment to life overseas. Exchange programs will usually administer tests and only those with sufficient language skills will be able to participate. However, you are not expected to be a native-level English speaker and special ESL classes are also in place to help foreign students get up to speed as quickly as possible.

Although you will be somewhat limited in your choice of schools, it is possible to study overseas. You will have to begin your studies at an ESL program overseas to get your language skills up to par, but you will eventually be able to attend regular classes with other high school students. Most schools will also want to know why you dropped out of school in Japan, and will be considering whether you have the potential to succeed in a school overseas. Studying overseas should never be used as an excuse, or escape, from more serious problems here. Remember that it is going to take tremendous determination, independence, and effort on your part to succeed away from the comfort of family and friends. However, when you graduate from high school overseas, you will be able to continue on to college and university, so the hard work does have its merits. It should also be mentioned that some high schools overseas are now offering accredited classes and credits online for international students.

Although it is truly unfortunate, public safety cannot be guaranteed in any country or location. Each country and environment is going to have its share of problems and potential for danger. Although Japan may be considered a relatively safe country, it also has its share of societal ills. Large metropolitan areas will have different problems from rural areas, but neither is going to be 100% safe. It is important to take responsibility for one's actions, show caution, and use common sense e.g., going out alone late at night, carrying large amounts of cash, etc... In general, school grounds / campuses and dormitories are quite safe and rural areas may be somewhat safer than urban centres, but what is most important is to find the best learning environment for your son or daughter. It is probably a good idea to discuss any particular concerns with school representatives and study abroad counsellors.

Since you will be living overseas, away from family and friends, it would be a good idea to "know thyself". Think about your strengths and weaknesses, likes and dislikes, and be learn to express yourself accordingly. It is also important to get accustomed to hearing, speaking, writing, and thinking in English. If you have never lived abroad before, you will be surprised at what a 24-hour a day English environment is like. It will definitely be challenging and tiring, so it is a good idea to speak and listen to as much English as possible while still in Japan. Some ways of improving your English are to enroll in English conversation classes, watch English television programs, listen to the radio, rent videos or DVDs, and become friends with foreigners in Japan. Although it may be difficult to improve your English while in Japan, the extra effort will definitely pay dividends later.