Overseas Opportunities
Each corps within the New Zealand Cadet Forces (NZCF) offers unique opportunities for cadets to take part in international exchanges, competitions, or to act as hosts for visiting cadets from overseas. These exchanges connect our cadets with the wider world, offering the chance to experience different cultures while sharing in the global spirit of cadet training.
NZCF participates in several international exchange programmes, which sees cadets from across the globe come together for immersive cultural and cadet experiences.
While eligibility criteria vary between corps, cadets must generally have completed their second year of training to apply. Applications are usually called for around nine months in advance, allowing time for international coordination and planning.
Many cadets describe exchange programmes as a highlight of their cadet career, forming lifelong friendships and gaining a deeper appreciation for global diversity. These exchanges promote international understanding, cooperation, and goodwill among young people from different ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
International Sea Cadet Exchange Program (ISCEP)
The International Sea Cadet Association (ISCA) is the governing body for international Navy Cadet exchanges. Since its establishment in 1997, ISCA has grown to include 21 member countries, many of which regularly host exchange programmes for cadets.
Sea Cadet exchanges are arranged through invitations between countries, agreed upon annually at the ISCA conference. The participating countries can vary each year, but New Zealand Navy Cadets typically exchange with the USA, Australia, and one other ISCA member nation.
Applications open in Term 4 each year for travel the following year. To be eligible, cadets must be prepared to self-fund their passport, any visa requirements, and 50% of their flights and travel insurance. Once overseas, meals, accommodation, and entertainment are covered by the host country.
During the exchange, cadets wear a designated exchange uniform, typically made up of polo shirts and casual or dress pants, representing New Zealand as ambassadors of the NZCF.
International Army Cadet Exchange
Army Cadet exchanges are arranged through mutual invitations between countries, with New Zealand Army Cadets currently exchanging with Australia and the United Kingdom across three distinct exchange programmes, each with its own selection criteria and focus.
These exchanges take place at different times throughout the year. To be eligible, cadets must generally be at least 16 years old and have been a member of their unit for at least two years.
While financial sponsorship is available, cadets are expected to contribute towards the cost of insurance, travel uniforms, and personal spending money for sightseeing and incidental expenses.
Each exchange provides a unique opportunity to develop leadership, broaden perspectives, and represent New Zealand on the international stage.
International Air Cadet Exchange (IACE)
The International Air Cadet Exchange (IACE) began in 1947 as a bi-lateral programme between Canada and the United Kingdom. Today, the programme includes around 15 member nations, including New Zealand, with several hundred cadets participating annually. Exchanges take place over three weeks in July/August.
Each year, New Zealand Air Cadets exchange with four countries—the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States, and one additional country, which is confirmed at the IACE annual conference held in September.
Applications open in Term 3 each year for travel the following year. To be eligible, cadets must be 17 years or older on the day the exchange begins and be prepared to self-fund their passport, any visa requirements, and 50% of their flights and travel insurance. Once overseas, meals, accommodation, and entertainment are covered by the host country.
Once overseas, cadets are hosted by the partner organisation, which provides accommodation, meals, and internal travel. Itineraries are designed to offer unique cultural experiences, including visits to military bases, and in some cases, flying in military aircraft which are experiences not available to the average tourist.