AFS is a global organization that helps people develop the knowledge, skills, and understanding necessary to create a fairer and more peaceful world. Through our international exchange and volunteer programs, we prepare future leaders, global citizens, and change-makers for effective engagement, leadership, and collaboration in diverse cultural environments.

Our research-based intercultural learning journeys, led by trained AFS volunteers and staff, are part of our international exchange, volunteering, and study abroad programs. With programs such as "Study Abroad in High School," "Language Learning," "Volunteer Work," and "Summer Schools Abroad," we are pioneers in intercultural education.

We also offer hosting programs, which provide a positive and meaningful intercultural learning experience for the entire family by sharing their culture, traditions, and gaining new perspectives.

AFS programs empower local volunteers who actively support students and families on their AFS intercultural journeys, participate in governance and policy-making, and develop social impact projects in local schools and communities.

We assist people of all ages and social backgrounds in developing the leadership, problem-solving, language, and intercultural skills necessary for success in today's economy and creating positive change in the world.

Using our "learn to live together" philosophy, AFS promotes intercultural understanding as a powerful and effective means to build a just and peaceful world. We value diversity and believe it makes our world stronger and more exciting.

AFS is an international, volunteer-driven, non-profit organization that provides intercultural learning opportunities to help people develop the knowledge, skills, and understanding needed to create a fairer and more peaceful world.

As responsible global citizens, aligned with our core values of integrity, diversity, inclusivity, empathy, and tolerance, AFS aims to promote respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms without discrimination based on race, gender, language, religion, or social status.

Living, learning, and volunteering in other countries and multicultural societies transform lives, prepare global citizens, and motivate agents of change. We call this the #AFSeffect!

Our global community is constantly on the move, engaging in surprising intercultural journeys, living, volunteering, working, and collaborating with people worldwide. It is a network of active and energized students, youth, volunteers, families, teachers, alumni, and staff working together.

AFS is inclusive, providing an accessible network that connects dedicated and open-minded AFSers who offer support and bridge cultures.

Our impact reaches all corners of the world, making a difference in society, various fields, important international issues, and social events.

AFS is a comprehensive global citizenship education program committed to helping the world learn to live together. What is global citizenship education? It is a lifelong journey that transforms and combines traditional learning with practical experiences. Global citizenship education helps individuals of all ages to: respect cultures, genders, beliefs, and other differences; explore the world beyond its usual boundaries; be aware of our responsibilities as part of the human community; contribute to saving the planet and securing a sustainable future; recognize how our local actions impact the rest of the world.

AFS is proud of its partnership with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as a "consultative status" organization since 2015. This status allows both organizations to collaborate on mutual interest and social benefit initiatives.

We have established strong and creative partnerships with schools, universities, organizations promoting humanism and peace, governments, and other non-governmental organizations on issues related to our mission.

Join AFS and be part of a global community dedicated to creating positive change and promoting intercultural understanding for a better world.