Academic year program

The Academic Year Program offers high school students an academic and cross-cultural experience. Students between the ages of 15 and 18 live in an American family and gain insight and understanding of American culture and lifestyle. A homestay experience provides the international visitor with the opportunity to explore the American way of life and be exposed to the culture on a daily basis, rather than see it as an ordinary tourist. Through this experience American hosts find it possible to know their guest's national identity firsthand. Together they create an international community in America's towns and cities. By sharing the daily routine of American family life and customs, as well as the responsibilities and support of the family, students and host families take a significant step in the building of world peace and understanding.

About Academic Year in America
All families participating in the program are volunteers. Families provide their student with a room and two meals a day and open their homes to gain a rewarding international experience. Students have their own spending money, which covers the costs for all personal expenses such as transportation, school supplies and lunch at the school. Students share in the daily household responsibilities as family members.

In each of the communities, Our Area Representatives are responsible for insuring the well-being of our exchange students and facilitating their adjustment to their new environment. Our Area Representative is the first point of contact in case of any problem or emergency. Students and families can be sure that support is always close at hand.

The best way to truly become immersed in the culture of a foreign country is to live among its people as a member of a family for one year. Every exchange student has the opportunity to do just that. You will travel to the country of your choice and live with a well-screened, caring host family who consider it a privilege to welcome an American student into their home for a school year. They will provide you with room, board and guidance in their country's manners and customs. Many families have children your own age and may even speak English nearly as well as you do.
Basic requirements for a student:
•Age 15 to 18
•Sufficient command of English
•Ability and readiness to adapt to new environments
•Demonstrated academic ability

Please contact us for more details