Focus on Switzerland

  Switzerland

Geneve [Geneva],  Zurich

Duration of Program: 7-12 months
Dates: inquire for specific dates

Description: Switzerland is a small, polished gem of a country, with mountains, forests, lakes, and modern cities like Zurich and Geneva. While there are three common languages- German (70 percent), French (20 percent), and Italian (10 percent)- you will probably live with a German-speaking host family. Switzerland is said to have one of the worlds best education systems, and most students go to public schools by public transportation (bus or train). Family life is important to the Swiss and you'll spend a good amount of time with your host family, taking trips to nearby natural resorts, as well as having healthy meals together, since personal health is imperative to the Swiss. You'll discover a love for the outdoors in this country; the Swiss love to go hiking, skiing, and bicycling.

Highlights: The school year runs from August through June. The Swiss school system is extremely competitive, and you are expected to be motivated, and participate fully in all areas. The public Maturitaetsschule (high school) runs from morning until late afternoon. The main courses will include German, French, math, history, geography, biology, and physical education. Swiss schools require foreign students to have some knowledge of German or French; but for AFS Exchange Students with little or no language background, AFS offers four weeks of language training before the start of school for students. Note: French placements must have at least 3 years of French language study. Your school classes will be with about 20 other students and you'll stay together for all your lessons, so you can begin to make new friends immediately. Sports or leisure time activities will not happen at school, but in your home region. There are also plenty of village festivals and sporting events to go to with your friends.

Cost in US$: $10,900

Application Process Involves:

• In-Person Interview Required
• Written Application

Post Services Include:

• Exit DebriefingAbroad
• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home
• Alumni Network
• Job and Internship Network

AFS Intercultural Programs'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