AFS Intercultural Programs: Germany High School Program

  Germany

• Berlin: 
Berlin

Durations of Program: 3-6 months and 7-12 months
Dates: Year High School (Fall): Sept. 2010- Jul. 2011; Semester High School (Fall):

Description: After the successful 2006 World Cup, the image of Germany's 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. It 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. AFS host family placements are located throughout Germany.

Highlights:
Year and Semester:

The German school year generally begins in August or September and runs through June or July with vacations in the fall and at Christmas and Easter. Most students attend a Gymnasium (college) with a program that includes the classics, modern languages, math, and the natural sciences; some students may attend a Gesamtschule (comprehensive school). All students have afternoons free for athletics, clubs, and other activities with their friends. AFS students are placed with volunteer host families located throughout Germany.

*For the semester program, a basic knowledge of the German language is preferred.

Cost in US$: Year: (USD 11,500); Semester: (USD 9,750)

This Program is open to American Participants.

Application Process Involves:

• In-Person Interview Required
• Written Application

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network

AFS Intercultural Programs/USA's Mission Statement: AFS Intercultural Programs is an international, voluntary, non-governmental, non-profit organization that provides intercultural learning opportunities to help people develop the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to create a more just and peaceful world. AFS Intercultural Programs is a leader in intercultural learning and offers international exchange programs in over 50 countries around the world through independent, not-for-profit AFS organizations, each with a network of volunteers, a professionally staffed office, and headed up by a volunteer board.

Year Founded: 1947