Afs intercultural exchange program?

Question

anyone planning on going? best places to go? details on how to get a spot, the process, prices, etc? hit me up :] thanks

Answer 1

AFS is one of the best programs out there. Other reliable ones include YFU, Aspect and Rotary. AYUSA/INTRAX is iffy.

To get a spot you must first apply! This works for any of them. You need to apply in the fall of the preceding year in most cases, especially if you are interested in scholarships (and definitely in the case of Rotary, which is the cheapest, yet most competitive program).

The programs will range from USD $8,000 - USD $10,000 and your personal expenses will be $250-$350/month. This is an expensive process -- that's why you need to apply early and look at scholarships.

For information on any of the programs, look at their websites. Also, ask your school counselor for a recommendation as there may be a program he/she prefers.

Just make sure whatever one you go on is CSIET listed (www.csiet.org) and be careful of the people up here who try to "sell" you cheap ones -- remember (with the exception of Rotary) you get what you pay for!

For info on being an exchange student in general, check out http://www.exchangestudentworld.com/ THis is not a program, rather it's a group of current and former exchange students sharing their experiences.

Good luck!