Location:

Helsinki, Finland

Program Type:

Study Abroad

Degree Level:

High School

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

Dispel any notions you might have of Finland being a cold, snowy, northern country; it is alive with vibrant culture, outdoor activities, lush landscapes, and the midnight sun...

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:

Finnish culture is colorful with hundreds of arts festivals, a wide range of sporting events, and a balanced mix of small-town life and modern cities. Common sense, no fuss, and making things work sums up how the Finns operate. Finland will stay with you long after your study abroad program. And be ready for anything: you will be placed anywhere between the northernmost village Utsjoki and southernmost town of Hanko.