Location:

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Program Type:

Study Abroad

Degree Level:

High School

Term:

Academic Year

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 a year program to destinations throughout the Netherlands. AFS is currently offering hundreds of scholarships for students flexible with their country choice and ready for an adventure.

The Netherlands is a nation of very independent-minded people who are often characterized by their international outlook, tolerance of others' beliefs, and love of personal freedom... The Netherlands has many different activities to do inside and outside of school. There are no specific activities covered by AFS but there are still many options for what you can do in your spare time with your friends at school! The grading system in The Netherlands is different compared to the typical letter grades here in the U.S. take a look at how students from The Netherlands are graded. Outstanding: 9-10 Good: 7-8 Average: 6 Failing: - 5.5

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:

Half of the Netherlands lies below sea level on land created by walling off the North Sea with dikes. To keep towns from feeling overcrowded, citizens prefer to ride bicycles everywhere; you'll probably end up doing the same. The Netherlands also has an excellent public transportation system, taking you from the seaside to tiny villages to the ultra-hip capital of Amsterdam. Locals love water sports (frozen or not), and during the winter, ice skating across frozen canals is popular. The Dutch also have a strong sense of family, and meals are an important time to catch up on each other's lives. The cuisine is simple, and represents a mix of European styles.