AFS Intercultural Programs—Are They Worth It?
Exchange programs offer a unique growth experience for high schoolers as well as a way to stand out when applying to colleges. Participation in such programs can show colleges that you are open-minded, adaptable, and culturally aware. By engaging with a different culture, you not only learn about others but also grow personally, which can help in interviews, essays, and overall application profiles. Programs like AFS-USA’s Intercultural Programs, the subject of our blog today, can provide these experiences while equipping you with skills that colleges value.
What are AFS Intercultural Programs?
AFS Intercultural Programs offer high school students the chance to live and learn in a different country. The aim of these programs is to promote global understanding, cultural exchange, and personal development. By immersing yourself in a new culture, you'll experience daily life in a way that goes far beyond a short visit.
AFS focuses on building intercultural skills, empathy, and communication, helping students to become global citizens. It's designed for students who are curious about other cultures, eager to learn new languages, and willing to step out of their comfort zone. Through AFS, you'll gain a deeper understanding of global issues and perspectives, all while developing essential life skills like adaptability and independence.
How are AFS Programs structured?
AFS programs are available for a semester, a summer, or even year-long exchanges and are meant for high school students aged 15-18. You will live with host families, attend local schools, and engage in community activities, providing a comprehensive cultural experience. The program also offers workshops on intercultural learning which guide you in reflecting on your experiences and the differences you observe.
A key component of AFS Programs is the AFS Student Learning Journey—an online plus in-person educational curriculum provided in collaboration with the University of Pennsylvania’s Center for Social Impact Strategy (CSIS). This Learning Journey helps you network with global peers, learn how to solve global challenges, and receive individualized support on understanding and appreciating cultural differences. There is also the option to obtain an Advanced Certificate in Global Citizenship for Social Impact, where you will formulate and develop an idea for a social impact capstone project and receive feedback from a global community of experts.
There are dozens of AFS programs available in many of the major countries of the world, such as:
Austria
France
Belgium
Hong Kong
Colombia
Egypt
Greece
Indonesia
India
Kenya
And many more
Is it prestigious?
AFS-USA is a large cultural organization that sends more than 1,100 students on foreign exchange programs each year. Their programs are competitive, with a selection process that ensures students are prepared for the challenges and rewards of living abroad. The networking opportunities offered by AFS are extensive. The program has alumni events and a global network that allows you to stay connected after the program ends. Participating in an AFS Intercultural Porgram can add value to your college applications, demonstrating that you’ve successfully challenged yourself to live and learn abroad.
Who is eligible, and how do you apply?
To apply for AFS Intercultural Programs, you simply need to be a high schooler who is open-minded, resilient, compassionate, and adaptable. Beyond that, each individual program may also have specific eligibility criteria, like age, GPA, medical prescriptions, or medical histories and conditions.
The AFS application process is straightforward:
Initial Application: Complete the online application form, which includes basic details about you, your interests, and why you want to participate.
Interviews: After reviewing your application, AFS will arrange an interview, usually online, to assess your readiness for the program.
Selection: Once accepted, you’ll work with AFS staff to find a program that best matches your interests.
Pre-departure Orientation: Before leaving, you’ll attend orientation sessions that help prepare you for your time abroad.
Applications are accepted by program, on a rolling basis.
The costs for the programs are as follows:
Year-long programs range from $13,950 to $23,000
Semester programs range from $11,150 to $17,250
Summer programs range from $4,500 to $9,550
Financial aid and scholarships are available, as are resources to help you with fundraising.
Pros and Cons of AFS Intercultural Programs
Pros
You will experience cultural immersion: Living with a host family and attending a local school allows you to fully experience a new culture.
There's a huge opportunity for personal growth: You develop independence, problem-solving skills, and adaptability by navigating life in a different environment.
You will build global connections: The AFS alumni network offers lifelong connections with peers from around the world.
It’s a great educational experience: You will gain a new perspective on global issues, which can enrich your understanding of subjects like history, politics, and economics.
Cons
The cost can be daunting: The program is expensive, and although financial aid is available, not all students may qualify.
You may feel homesick: Living abroad for months can be emotionally challenging, especially for younger students.
There is often an adjustment period: Adapting to a new school and family might take time, and the differences in education systems can be a challenge.
Academic disruption needs to be considered: Missing a semester or year at your home school could impact your coursework or graduation timeline, depending on your school’s policies.
Is it worth it?
In deciding whether the AFS Intercultural Program is worth it, consider your goals and readiness for a unique experience. If you're looking to immerse yourself in another culture, build global connections, and strengthen your college application with intercultural skills, this program could be a good fit. It provides valuable opportunities for personal growth, such as developing independence, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities.
However, the program's cost and emotional challenges, like homesickness and cultural adjustment, are factors you should weigh carefully. AFS is ideal for students who are open-minded, eager to explore new environments, and ready to step out of their comfort zone. If you're prepared for these challenges and excited by the opportunity to grow, then AFS could be a rewarding experience for you.
One other option—the Lumiere Research Scholar Program
If you’re interested in pursuing independent research, you could also consider applying to one of the Lumiere Research Scholar Programs, selective online high school programs for students founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4,000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here.
Also check out the Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation, a non-profit research program for talented, low-income students. Last year, we had 150 students on full need-based financial aid!
Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.