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Audience

For Parents & Family

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introduction

AIFS Abroad has been a leading provider of study and intern abroad programs for almost 60 years. With exciting and innovative educational opportunities around the globe, we have programs to meet every participant’s interests and needs, while safeguarding their welfare and supporting them every step of the way.

Why Choose an AIFS Abroad Program

Invest in Your Future

Become a global citizen in our interconnected world and improve your job prospects.

Explore the World

Live and learn abroad while immersing yourself in a new culture and way of life.

Build Independence

Gain confidence in your ability to navigate new challenges and situations.

Enjoy Unforgettable Experiences

Have a life-changing experience that will last long beyond your time abroad.

A Family Guide to Study Abroad

A Family Guide to Study Abroad

All families are unique, but the importance and value of family support for participants seeking to study abroad is shared. With A Family Guide to Study Abroad, the AIFS Foundation and IIE provide valuable guidance on understanding the impact of and options for study abroad while updating information and tips to empower today’s participants and their families to succeed. The guide speaks directly to families and provides helpful tips on topics like picking the right program, creating a budget, and staying safe when abroad. A Family Guide to Study Abroad is available in English and Spanish with print and digital versions to best fit your needs.

Pre-Order Your Copy
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Participant Safety

AIFS Abroad offers programs that make your participant’s safety and health the highest priority. These safety features are standard on all AIFS Abroad programs:

  • 24-hour emergency service in the U.S. and abroad
  • On-site support staff to provide guidance and assistance
  • Comprehensive insurance/assistance package that includes medical coverage abroad and baggage coverage
  • Financial security – a unique policy that protects every participant’s payment and guarantees he or she will receive the services included in the program
Learn more about Health, Safety & Culture

We strive to make a positive impact on the world around us

50%

Half of AIFS Abroad participants receive tuition funding for their program

Learn about Scholarships & Grants

NET 0

AIFS Abroad has committed to reaching carbon neutrality.

Learn About Our Green Initiative

500+

Colleges and Universities that partner with AIFS Abroad and send participants abroad on our programs.

Why AIFS
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Finance Your Global Education

AIFS Abroad recognizes the challenges today’s participants face with meeting the cost of their education. We believe that an international educational experience is an essential component of well-rounded university education and we are committed to providing financial assistance to as many participants as possible in support of their goal to study abroad. AIFS Abroad funding, combined with other sources of financial support participants can access, will help make study abroad attainable. 

View Financial Aid Opportunities

GET READY FOR A LIFE-CHANGING EXPERIENCE

This is your chance to set yourself apart. Explore the world and your interests while earning academic credit and developing your personal and professional skills. Whether you choose a study abroad program, international internship program or a study + internship program, you will elevate your life’s journey and have something amazing to put on your resumé.

Explore Programs

How To Get Started

Step 1

Explore Your Options

With a wide selection of short- and long-term study abroad and internship options to choose from, you’re bound to find your perfect program. Need help? Give us a call to discuss your needs and preferences!

Step 2

Create Your Account

Register with AIFS Abroad to be connected to our network of staff, alumni, and fellow participants. You’ll receive news and updates, deadline reminders, specific information about your program of interest, and more.

Step 3

Apply for Your Program

Ready to start your adventure? Submit your application and get started on the most exciting experience of your life! AIFS Abroad staff are experienced, professional, and ready to assist you every step of the way!

My daughter was disappointed when her university’s education abroad program to Rome was full. When she found this AIFS program at the International Study Abroad Fair at her school, the University of Maryland, she was so excited. She called to tell me she had found the perfect program! A semester in Rome with a 2-week orientation in Florence, trips to Venice, Naples, Pompeii, Capri Island and so much more. I think the best testament to this program is my daughter telling me via Skype from the orientation in Florence, Italy “I wanted to tell you how happy I am, and that we definitely chose the right program. I love the Italian AIFS staff-everyone is no nice. It is so beautiful here.

FAQS & Resources

Coming in Fall 2024:
Revised Family Guide to Study Abroad

Since 1964, the American Institute For Foreign Study (AIFS) has been providing study abroad programs of the highest quality.

On an AIFS Abroad program, you can expect the best value for your money and your participant is supported through the entire process. Programs include an optional transportation package, a comprehensive insurance plan, centrally located housing, great cultural activities and excursions, tuition and a dedicated support team on-site and from our office in Stamford, CT. Most colleges throughout the United States recognize the quality of an AIFS Abroad program and easily accept the credits taken at our locations. More than 50% of our participants receive financial support from AIFS Abroad in the form of scholarships or grants. In addition, our program fees are guaranteed in U.S. dollars (protecting you against currency fluctuation), we do not charge a credit card transaction fee, and do not require a damage deposit for any of our programs.

The AIFS Abroad team of Program Directors abroad and Program Managers here in the United States is equipped to handle all emergencies for our participants. The AIFS Protection Package is a comprehensive insurance plan that covers our participants in the event of medical emergency, evacuation and program cancellation. Detailed information regarding the insurance coverage can be found here.

Every country is different, but participants receive a detailed packet before they depart explaining the best methods for their family and friends to reach them by mail. Prescription medication should not be mailed to participants once they are abroad as it is often held up in Customs. Please work with your doctor and insurance provider to obtain a semester’s worth of medication for the participant to carry with him/her.

This number really varies depending on location, but please call our U.S. Office for further details.

Buildings in Barcelona, Spain.

Ready to find your ideal experience?