Since 1947, AFS has prepared young people with practical skills, knowledge and more needed to thrive in a global world. Today we’ve enhanced these 21st Century competencies by introducing new state-of-the-art AFS Learning Journey Curriculums so you can follow along as your student grows. Many universities and employers seek students and young adults who have a sense of the world beyond their own communities—and are comfortable interacting with people from other countries and cultures.
Why should my child go abroad with AFS?
For over 70 years, AFS has an exceptional reputation for providing quality international programs that develop skills essential to succeed in the 21st Century. The AFS experience:
- Builds confidence, broadens perspectives and enhances critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Includes respected intercultural education and language learning components that are valued by universities and employers.
- Offers fun adventures that makes learning easy and meaningful to teens.
- Provides lifelong access to a global community of friends, connections and volunteer opportunities.
What types of programs does AFS offer?
AFS offers a variety of programs for students. They can attend a local secondary school in another country as a full-time student during an academic year, semester or trimester. Cultural immersion, language study, volunteer opportunities, and single topic courses (such as investigating environmental issues or studying new technology) are short-term opportunities lasting several weeks up to three months.
Where will my child live?
Most AFS students (especially in our high school study abroad programs) live with a caring host family. AFS host families are carefully chosen, screened and prepared to welcome AFS students into their homes. Once the application is accepted, local AFS volunteers and staff will identify a community and family that are right for your child. Or, depending on the program and country, some students may live in dormitories with home stays on weekends, others stay in camp-like settings.
How will AFS support my student?
The health, safety and well-being of our students is the number one priority for AFS. AFS volunteers and staff are committed and trained to support students and their families throughout the AFS experience. AFS has consistent guidelines that apply to all AFS Organizations. All AFS Organizations also have a local 24-hour emergency contact number that is always monitored.
