Location:

Berlin, Germany

Program Type:

Study Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Term:

Academic Year, Fall Semester, Summer

Program Overview

Program Description:

AFS (formerly the American Field Service) is a leader in intercultural learning and offers international exchange programs in more than 40 countries around the world. We've been exchanging students throughout the world for 60 years. That is six decades of history and experience in international education with an exemplary record of safety, security, and service to students, parents, and educators.

AFS Mission: AFS-USA works toward a more just and peaceful world by providing international and intercultural learning experiences to individuals, families, schools, and communities through a global volunteer partnership.

AFS offers year and semester programs to destinations throughout Germany. AFS is currently offering hundreds of scholarships for students flexible with their country choice and ready for an adventure.

After the successful 2006 World Cup, the image of Germany as a modern country with friendly and welcoming citizens was solidified. Already well known for its rich cultural life, Germany also has a vibrant youth culture and a wide range of historic sites and buildings... Note: Semester students must have some German language ability.

Colleges recommend high school study abroad experiences - as these programs provide the opportunity to develop confidence and self-reliance before pursuing higher education. In addition, after exploring the world you may have a clearer vision of what you'd like to study in college. As a result, you may spend less time switching majors, which means you'll save time and money. An exchange program also boosts college applications and gives you an immediate advantage when applying for scholarships.

Plus, the language skills you develop on an AFS program might exempt you from required language courses, thus enabling you to finish college sooner. Some students have received as much as 18 hours language credit-almost enough to provide a minor in language and a huge financial savings when you figure the cost of credits.

Setting Description:

Germany has access to two seas (the North Sea and the Baltic Sea) and stretches from northern flat farming country to central rolling hills to the southern Alps. Sports-especially soccer-are an important part of German life and there are many sports clubs and youth groups. Family life is also important, but Germany will give you a chance to learn to live independently, as young people are considered to be full members of the family who take care of their own affairs. Germany is also the right choice for you if you want to learn about ecological awareness: Germany is on top in such fields as renewable energies and recycling.