AFS is an international, non-profit organization that each year provides thousands of American high school students the opportunity to live and study in a foreign land. Just as important, each year thousands of American families host a high school age "son" or "daughter" from another country. With tens of thousands of volunteers worldwide, AFS is the leading international exchange program in the world!
Each year many students from the Greater Los Angeles area study abroad on an AFS exchange program. Also, each year a number of students, from many different countries around the globe come and live here for a semester or year on an exchange program. During that time, the students, their host families and friends are forever changed by their homestay in our area.
AFS offers many study abroad experiences, as well as opportunities to host a high school foreign exchange student, and volunteer.
Be an Exchange Student
Study Abroad for a Year, Semester, or Summer!
AFS will help high school students choose the perfect year, semester, or summer program. The experience will change the way you look at yourself and the world.
Gap-Year & Beyond
18 Years or Older? High School Grad? Gain an Advantage with AFS!
Whether you’re taking time off before or during college, or want to spend time after your high school graduation before considering what your next steps might be, AFS Gap Year Programs can be your opportunity of a lifetime.
Host an Exchange Student
There’s no place like home. Host with AFS!
Each year, AFS welcomes more than 2,500 international high school students to the U.S. Host families provide a bed and meals, and are asked to guide and support their hosted participant as they would any other family member in return for a lifetime of memories.
Volunteer with AFS
Volunteer with AFS: What the World Needs Now Is…You!
AFS is a worldwide organization with one of the largest volunteer network of its kind. Volunteers…
• Help international students feel at home in America • Build bridges of understanding between people • Assist with community events • Work with young Americans who want to go abroad • Work with area high schools, organizations, and families
• Tell us what your interests are
Refer a Student to AFS
Do you know a student who you think would be a great candidate for a study abroad program? Let us know!