International Exchange
The Global Relation Club aims to promote appreciation of and respect for peers of all cultures, ethnic backgrounds and religious affiliations. Similarly, AFS works toward a more just and peaceful world by providing international and intercultural learning experiences. If you are interested in studying abroad for a full year, semester or summer while in high school, OR if you would like to host an exchange student from another country, please explore this webpage! You may also call AFS at 1-800-AFS-INFO. Additional information may be found on the PRHS Global Relations Club webpage.
Why AFS?
- Pine-Richland has a 60+ year history with AFS. PR families have hosted 111 students since 1962 and 36 PRHS students have studied abroad with AFS since 1964. For the past two years, Pine-Richland International Days has attained record-high participation with 43 students visiting from 20+ countries. Our students forged life-long friendships with our visitors from around the world.
- AFS (American Field Service) is an international, voluntary, non-governmental, non-profit organization that provides intercultural learning opportunities. AFS was organized in 1914 as a WWI volunteer ambulance brigade and reactivated during WWII. At the end of WWII, drivers pledged to sustain their tradition of international service and to promote understanding and peace through international student exchange.
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In 1947, the first American Field Service high school exchange students were welcomed in the US. Today, more than 13,000 students, young adults, and teachers participate in AFS Intercultural Programs each year; committed staff + 36,000 volunteers.
Studying Abroad with AFS
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Who can go? |
Varies with program; in general, between 15 and 18 years old; older for post-high school gap program. 2.8 QPA for year and semester programs. |
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What are the programs? |
Programs are available in 40+ countries: Year – complete immersion; about 10 months Semester – about 6 months Summer – 4-7 weeks; homestay, language study, community service programs Gap year – year, semester, summer for high school grads; academic or community service programs. Click here to see the current list of programs and available pricing. NOTE: Pine-Richland High School credit will be given for foreign exchange courses that meet criteria established in the curriculum and are approved by the building principal. |
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Why travel/study overseas? |
Learn a new culture, first-hand Gain a new perspective Learn a new language Have the adventure of a lifetime Make new friends from around the world Stand out on college applications |
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How much will it cost? |
Varies by program and country. Here are some of the latest programs and their costs. Merit- and need-based financial aid are available. Here is more information about the millions of dollars in scholarship assistance. |
Hosting an Exchange Student with AFS
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Who are the students? |
Between 16 and 18 years old Come from 50+ countries Are role models, have good grades and interest in other cultures, have completed an extensive application and interview process |
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When are the students here? |
10+ months - year program students (August through June) 6 months – semester program students |
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Who hosts? |
AFS is open to all kinds of families: ·2-parent households with young children, teenagers, and/or grown children
·Single-parent families
·Couples or single people who don't have children
·Same-sex couples
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Why host? |
Introduce your family to other cultures; become a global family without leaving home. Share your part of the USA with your student. See the USA through new eyes. Help a student grow into a more confident and knowledgeable individual. Enrich your daily life. Develop a lifelong connection with your student and his/her family. |
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What is required of the host family? |
Include your student in family activities and provide the same care, support, and comfort as you would for your own child. Provide 3 meals/day and transportation to and from school. The student must have his/her own bed but may share a room with a same-gender sibling. Read the Pine-Richland School Board policy 239 for more information. |
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How much will it cost? |
Student brings his/her own spending money and has health insurance. Other costs vary with family and student interests and activities; no financial compensation to families. |