Program Details
| Program Length | Approx. Start Date | Approx. End | 2009 Price | Age on Departure |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year | Aug 18-21 | Jul 15-17 | $10,900 | 16 yr 0 mos - 18 yr 5 mos |
All programs to Switzerland depart from either Washington D.C. or New York.
Note about travel dates: Travel date ranges are provided to help with general scheduling. Please do not reserve any domestic travel based on these dates. AFS will notify confirmed participants with specific travel details approximately 45 days prior to departure.
About Switzerland
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 world’s 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.
Year Program
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. 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.
Note: French placements must have at least 3 years of French language study.
View PDF Brochure for Switzerland School Program.
All programs, prices, and travel dates are subject to change without notice.
