Translation guide
In Japanese, the term for 'exchange student' depends on the direction of the exchange and the context. The most common word is 留学生 (りゅうがくせい), but it specifically refers to a student studying abroad, not necessarily on a formal exchange program. For a student from abroad studying in Japan, use 留学生. For a Japanese student studying abroad, use 留学生 or specify the destination. There are also more precise terms for short-term exchange programs.
Referring to a foreign student who has come to Japan to study, typically at a university or language school.
The standard term for an international student studying in Japan. It does not necessarily imply a formal exchange program, but is widely used for any foreign student.
彼は日本に留学している留学生です。
He is an exchange student studying in Japan.
大学には多くの留学生がいます。
There are many exchange students at the university.
Literally 'exchange study abroad student'. This explicitly refers to a student on a formal exchange program between institutions. It is less common in casual conversation but precise.
彼女は交換留学生としてアメリカから来ました。
She came from America as an exchange student.
Referring to a Japanese student who has gone to another country to study.
The same word is used for Japanese students studying abroad. Context usually makes the direction clear. You can add the destination to specify.
彼はアメリカに留学している留学生です。
He is an exchange student studying in America.
Literally 'overseas study abroad student'. Emphasizes that the student is abroad, often used from the perspective of Japan.
海外留学生の数が増えています。
The number of exchange students going abroad is increasing.
Referring to a student on a short-term exchange, often at the high school level or a cultural immersion program.
Short-term exchange student. Commonly used for programs lasting a few weeks to a few months.
短期留学生としてホームステイをしました。
I did a homestay as a short-term exchange student.
Exchange student (without 'study abroad' nuance). Often used for high school exchanges. Slightly less formal than 交換留学生.
交換学生として日本の高校に通いました。
I attended a Japanese high school as an exchange student.
留学生 is the general term for any student studying abroad, while 交換留学生 specifically refers to a student on a reciprocal exchange program between institutions. In everyday conversation, 留学生 is usually sufficient unless you need to emphasize the exchange aspect.
The verb 留学する (りゅうがくする) means 'to study abroad'. You can use it to describe the action: 日本に留学しています (I am studying abroad in Japan). This is a very natural way to express the concept.