A host mom and her AFS daughter.

AFS provides a wide variety of programs for both high school students and teachers. There are exchange programs that last a summer, a semester and a year and each one has specific details that are too detailed to go into in this space. The good news is that the AFS website, www.afs.org , has all the information you need to get started. They offer a 1-800 telephone number to call and even live chat. However, to answer some of your questions about student exchanges, the following questions and answers are provided. They too came from the AFS website and might have changed since they were posted to this page. Again, please visit the AFS website for the most up-to-date information.

Q: Can I study abroad if I don’t know a foreign language?

A: Many AFS Participants start with little or no experience in the language of their host country, but learn to communicate at a basic level very soon. There is no better way to learn a language than by speaking it 24/7! Each day gets better, and by the end of their semester or year abroad, many AFS Participants are fluent in their host country’s language. There are also AFS programs that offer language instruction to start you off on the right foot.

Q: Do I have to be a straight “A” student to go abroad with AFS?

A: No. Our year and semester programs carry a minimum 2.8 GPA requirement on a 4.0 scale. Summer programs do not have a GPA requirement, but students must have a passing GPA.

Q: How does AFS provide for my safety and security abroad?

A: AFS is an experienced, worldwide leader in high school student exchange that has an exemplary safety record for 60 years. Our primary operating value is concern for the welfare, safety, and security of our student participants. AFS has a professional network of experienced staff and volunteers who provide support in each country. An AFS Situation Response Management Team is in place at all times to monitor events throughout the world and respond in case of crisis. While some AFS programs are curtailed at particular times, AFS has run programs throughout the world, without interruption, since it was founded in 1947.

Q: Will I be able to fit in with people my age in another country?

A: This is a common concern of participants. The simple answer is yes, you’ll fit in fine–and we’ll help you out, too. This site lets you chat on our bulletin board with AFS Returnees about their experiences abroad or with other students getting ready to go abroad. This site also contains Culture Trek, a resource to help you prepare that you will get access to once you are accepted to a country. Before you travel, you’ll attend an orientation that will also help to prepare you for your study abroad experience. Remember, the kids you meet will be just as curious about you and your culture as you are about them and theirs–which will give you plenty of opportunities to talk.

Q: What can I expect when I get to my host country?

A: An arrival orientation will introduce you to your new country, as well as to other AFS Participants. You’ll meet your host family who will provide you with your housing, food, and the same care they give their own children. AFS Host Families do not receive monetary compensation. Since this is a new family, language, and culture, there are some adjustments you will have to make. However, you’ll have the support of local AFS Staff and Volunteers, and you’ll learn how to take care of yourself pretty quickly.

Q: Is there anything I won’t be able to do abroad?

A: Yes. AFS has three rules that all participants must agree to:

No illegal drugs - No driving - No hitchhiking

All participants must be law abiding in their host country. There may be country-specific rules that apply. There also are limits on traveling independently. In a new environment, it’s important to be more aware than you might be at home. And remember: you are a student ambassador for the U.S., so it will be important to act respectfully toward others and to give extra attention to being culturally aware. Students may be sent home for breaking rules or laws, or for persistent behavioral issues.

Q: Will I be in a big city or a small village?

A: Most students are hosted in small-to medium-sized towns or villages. Families in big cities often live in small apartments, so they don’t have a lot of room. Also, outside the major cities you often get a better feel for what a country is really like.

Q: I don’t have much money and my parents can’t pay the entire program fee. Can AFS help?

A: Yes, if you’re willing to help raise the money you need. There are many community organizations (you could start with your local AFS Chapter) that will help a good cause (like your AFS experience), and we’ll give you tips on getting their support. Fundraising is also important: garage sales, car washes, and letters asking for sponsors are just a few strategies that work. Included with your full application packet, which AFS will send you after we receive your preliminary application, will be a copy of Financing Your AFS Experience, which is full of great fundraising ideas. Also, AFS Staff give telephone workshops on fundraising for students going abroad. AFS provides scholarships to more than 30% of our participants. Note: If you let AFS select your destination country, you may become eligible for additional scholarships and financial aid. Call 1-800-AFS-INFO for more information.

Q: Does AFS provide spending money when I’m abroad?

A: No, but we do provide suggestions on how much money you should bring depending on the country. Your AFS tuition covers placing you with a host family who provide and housing; international airfare; travel to your host family when you arrive in your host country; and more. Check out the Your AFS Tuition

Q: I’m insured by my family’s medical plan. Why do I need secondary medical coverage?

A: It is part of our commitment to your safety and welfare. This additional coverage ensures that, in an emergency, you can be treated as soon as possible, anywhere in the world. This secondary medical coverage is a prerequisite for your participation.

Q: Will my high school accept academic credit from a high school abroad?

A: Most U.S. high schools will give you academic credit for some of your AFS experience abroad. However, having all the materials your school needs to process the transfer of needed credits is your responsibility. Make sure you talk to your guidance counselor about your school’s specific guidelines. For tips and guidelines, call -1800-AFS-INFO.

Q: How long will it take to complete my full application for an AFS program?

A: AFS recommends that you give yourself 2-3 weeks to complete your full application, but it’s really up to you how quickly the application can be finished. We have received applications in less than 48 hours from students responding to a country deadline. The full application is in-depth and requires a visit to the doctor, has a form that needs to be completed by a school official, and essays for you and your parents. We encourage students to submit the complete application before Dec 31, 2007 to receive the early application discount for programs departing the USA this summer. Please note, some programs may fill or close before this deadline as AFS has rolling admissions. So, be sure to contact your Application Advisor about program availability and country close dates. Here is what one student had to say about completing the AFS application process: • When you receive the full application packet, the amount of paperwork involved may appear daunting . . . However, with patience and perseverance, all of these steps can be accomplished, and the rewards can be immeasurable. -Rebecca, Paraguay

Q: Will the timing of my program affect my college applications?

A: If you study abroad as a sophomore or junior, you’ll be back in time to apply to college. If you’re a senior, what better way to get the attention of a college admissions office than with a postmark from the Czech Republic, Thailand, or Chile? In most countries, you can take the SATs. Learn more by talking with your Info Center Advisor at 1-800-AFS-INFO.

Q: I’m over 18. Are there any AFS programs for me?

A: Absolutely. 18+ & Community Service Programs, let you experience a new culture by volunteering with a community-based organization. 18+ University Study Programs in Panamá and Argentina combine coursework with cultural programs. And some Summer Homestay Programs like the folk art program in Hungary are open to high school graduates and older students.

Q: This is such a big step. How do I talk to my parents about it?

A: The decision to study and live abroad takes a lot of thought. Your parents need to be involved and are bound to have questions. They’ll want to know about AFS, how serious you are about the program, where you want to go, what you’ll do there, and especially what you hope to gain from the experience. We can help with some of those questions, and we can also put them in touch with our volunteers, as well as other parents whose children have studied abroad with AFS. Ask them to call 1-800-AFS-INFO to speak with someone who can help. br>