BECOME AN AFS EXCHANGE STUDENT, EXTEND YOUR HORIZON AND HAVE THE EXPERIENCE OF YOUR LIFE TIME!
Have you ever dreamed of visiting another country, of meeting new people, tasting new food, listening to new music and learning new cultures? On top of all of this, you can live with a host family who will treat you as one of their own children, and you will learn a new language so well you will be dreaming in it! What a challenge!
Through AFS Interculture South Africa you can become an exchange student with one of the oldest and largest exchange student organizations in the world.
Departures are in February and August each year depending on when the school year begins in each country.
What is an exchange student program?
It’s not just the opportunity to visit another country, but also to live with a host family, go to school, learn a new language and become a part of that culture! A chance to develop relationships with people in another country. To experience what it is like to be a Swiss, Brazilian, Danish or Costa Rican teenager. You can’t learn these things from school, or even from back-packing, so this is a once-in-a lifetime opportunity. If you accept the challenge, you will never regret it.
There are other benefits as well… In the South African society, where there is high unemployment and young people are struggling to find jobs, it is very beneficial to have a knowledge of other ways of life, and particularly to speak another language. Also, by participating in an exchange program and leaving the comfort of your family, friends and lifestyle, you are making a statement that you are different. You are prepared to take risks, to take responsibilities, to be a leader among your peers, and you are open to making new friends. Universities and employers will see your international experience as a benefit. This experience can change your life.
AFS provides the opportunity to travel within a safe environment. We will support you before, during and after your exchange by means of telephone calls, e-mails, newsletters and orientations. You will have the support of an international network of volunteers – including your own contact person – as well as a professional staff.
The below mentioned programmes to Denmark, Germany, Italy and France are special programmes we have on offer right now. However there are many more countries to choose from. Find out more about the countries and the prices in the FAQ’s to your right.
Year Program: This year lasts 10 months.
| Europe | Asia | Americas | Africa |
|---|---|---|---|
Semester Program: This program lasts 5 to 6 months.
| Europe | Asia | Americas |
|---|---|---|
Intensive Program: This program lasts 2 months.
| Europe | Asia |
|---|---|
Reciprocal Program to Germany: This two month program is based on reciprocity of families. The exchange is consecutive, which means not at the same time.
| Europe |
|---|
Youth Exchange and Study Program: This is a scholarship program to the United States of America. There are specific requirements for this program. Please inquire before applying.
| Americas |
|---|
