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Flagship Year School Program in India

Culture, Innovation, Language, Celebration!

Step into an enriching year-long adventure with India flagship Cultural Exchange Program, where you’ll experience a new culture, education system, and the warmth of Indian hospitality.

This transformative journey will help you develop global competencies and expand your worldview in ways you never imagined. Indian Hospitality – A Warm Welcome Awaits In India, we live by the saying, “Athithi Devo Bhava,” meaning “The guest is God.” Indians take immense pride in welcoming guests into their homes, going above and beyond to ensure comfort and happiness.

You’ll experience firsthand the unparalleled hospitality that makes India so unique. Broaden Your Perspective India is a country of immense diversity and rich heritage, offering a once-in-a-lifetime chance to step out of your comfort zone and gain a new perspective on life.

With over a billion people and countless traditions, languages, and religions, India is a land of contrasts and connections, a democratic and secular society where you’ll witness a vibrant blend of cultures. It’s an experience that will shape your future in profound and unforgettable ways. This program isn’t just about exploring a new country—it’s about discovering yourself and the world in a completely new light.

Highlights: 

  • Cultural Immersion
  • Yoga
  • English language
  • Festivities and Traditions
  • Home Stay
  • Strong Support
  • School Based Program
  • Henna Art
  • Indian Instrumental Music
  • Indian Dance
  • Community Service
  • Local Language
  • Presentation Skills
  • Trip to Taj Mahal

What's included in your experience

  • Airfare
  • Airport Pick-up
  • Host Family Placement
  • Housing
  • Meals
  • School Placement
  • Medical Insurance
  • 24/7 Emergency Support
  • Domestic Transport
  • Pre-Departure Orientation
  • Orientations during your time abroad
  • Re-entry Orientation

What you are responsible for

  • Vaccinations
  • School Transport
  • Visa and Passport Fees
  • School Materials
  • Project Materials
  • Stipend
  • School Uniform
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Meeting your Indian Host Family

AFSers have lived in communities throughout India, from the lush rainforests of the south to the drier, mountainous regions of the north. Family is a very important part of Indian society and you may find several generations living together in the same home. You might also find that the concept of privacy in India is different from what you’re used to; Indians tend to be very community oriented and enjoy living in groups. While all families are different you should expect that your host family will welcome you with open arms!

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Settling into daily life in India

As a teenager in India you’ll get the chance to make lots of new friends. Teenagers in India enjoy similar activities to young people everywhere, like watching and playing sports, going out to the movies, watching TV, shopping, going to the beach, or just hanging out with friends. You might also find that Indians like throwing parties and celebrating all kinds of events like having a baby or buying a new car. Their festivals are some of the most exciting in the world – especially that of Holi, which celebrates the triumph of good over evil and is celebrated by people throwing colorful paints and powders at each other in the streets until the whole town is rainbow-colored!

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Food you’ll encounter when studying abroad in India

India is a huge country and the local diet really depends on the culture and region. In the north you’ll find that wheat bread is common, while in the south rice is much more prevalent. If you like spicy food then you’re really in for a treat. Many Indian curries are usually prepared very spicy but there are plenty of other options. Coconut is a common ingredient in the south and lentils and other legumes are an important part of Indian cuisine all over the country. Many of India’s religions also have particular dietary restrictions; the Hindus, for example do not eat beef, the Muslims don’t eat pork, and many Indians are vegetarians

Your High School in India

Education is taken very seriously in India and attending a local school will be both challenging and rewarding. You’ll probably spend a lot of time studying and you can expect to grow very close to your classmates. You may be enrolled in an Indian “public” school, which is the equivalent of a private school in the United States. Your classes may be taught in English and all students wear uniforms. Based on your interest and academic background you’ll choose a concentration of engineering, medicine, commerce, or art. Schools also offer lots of extracurriculars and you’ll have the opportunity to take art classes, debate, or sports like basketball or cricket.

You’ll also have the option of attending a boarding school for no extra cost. These are some of the best schools in India with state-of-the-art facilities. Your school will likely offer a variety of extracurriculars including yoga, horseback riding, swimming, rock climbing, fencing, and other sports. If you choose to attend a boarding school in India, you’ll live on campus five days per week and then stay with your host family on weekends and during holidays.