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HIGH SCHOOL STUDY ABROADSummer, Semester, Trimester, Academic Year

At AYUSA Study Abroad we speak to scores of students every day about their dreams to go abroad. Matching our students’ dreams with an academic experience that is both safe and enriching is our primary mission. To achieve this delicate balance, we make full use of our 30 years of experience working with student exchange programs, our relations with US high schools and our partnerships with dozens of overseas institutions.

We offer 30 unique cultural programs in 12 different countries across 4 continents, varying in length from four week summer programs to trimester, semester and academic year exchanges. You will have the opportunity to discover a new country, immerse yourself in a new culture, become more independent, improve your language skills and make life-long friends. Whether your interest is art, language, literature, adventure sports or community service, AYUSA has a perfect program for you.

Our team is passionate about cultural exchange, and all of us have studied abroad, often multiple times, so we understand the challenges and opportunities that an international education experience entails. We are committed to making sure you have a rewarding and enjoyable cultural experience abroad.

We never stop listening to what you have to say and constantly strive to create and improve our programs so that they meet your high expectations. Give us a call anytime and let us know what type of international experience fits best into your dreams.

Sincerely, Sherry CarpenterExecutive DirectorAYUSA Study Abroad

AYUSA Study Abroad is a premier youth exchange organization dedicated to international education and cultural exchange. Since 1980, as a part of Intrax Cultural Exchange, we’ve provided dynamic study abroad experiences for more than 40,000 students, enabling them to live and study all over the world.

03

Sherry Carpenter

Executive Director

AYUSA Study Abroad

03 WELCOME

04 WHY STUDY ABROAD

05 THE AYUSA STUDY ABROAD DIFFERENCE

06 EXPLORE YOUR DESTINATION

SUMMER PROGRAMS08 SUMMER PROGRAM OPTIONS

09 CHINA: BEIJING

10 COSTA RICA: SAN JOSÉ

11 FRANCE: AMBOISE

12 GERMANY: BERLIN

13 ITALY: FLORENCE

14 JAPAN: TOKYO

15 SPAIN: BARCELONA

16 SWITZERLAND: GENEVA

LONG TERM ACADEMIC IMMERSION PROGRAMS18 AUSTRALIA

19 ECUADOR

20 FRANCE

21 GERMANY

22 IRELAND 23 JAPAN

24 THE NETHERLANDS 25 SPAIN

26 MEET OUR STUDENTS 28 PROGRAM DETAILS

29 SCHOLARSHIPS

30 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

31 HOW TO APPLY

CONTENTS

02

Get Out and Explore Your World!

“AYUSA not only allows you to study abroad and live with a host family,

but it also enriches your experience by allowing you to discover the

charms of a country with excursions to historical sites, hikes after school,

cooking classes, trips to the town pool or biking to a nearby chateau or

sunflower field. This program is focused on your linguistic endeavors,

allowing you to see as much of the country as possible, having fun and

your safety. It is the most fulfilling four weeks I have ever experienced,

and I can only imagine what more than four weeks can offer.”

- Holly, Kimball Union Academy, Meriden, NH

France-Amboise Summer Cultural Exploration

Studying abroad will change your life in ways that you never thought

possible. An AYUSA Study Abroad program gives you the support you

need to face exciting new challenges.

CULTURAL IMMERSIONGo beyond visiting a new destination and learn what it’s really like to live

in another country. Become involved in your community and school by

participating in sports, joining extracurricular clubs or volunteering for a

good cause, and make life-long friends at the same time. You will gain

a broader perspective of the world as you are exposed to new cultural,

historical and political viewpoints.

IMPROVE YOUR LANGUAGE SKILLSEach year, students tell us that their biggest personal success was

learning to communicate in and understand a second language. Over

90% of our students that started out with “basic” language skills at the

beginning of their program reported being “conversational” by the time

they returned.

ENHANCE YOUR COLLEGE APPLICATIONAre you looking for a way to stand out from other applicants? Demonstrate

your leadership qualities, flexibility and international experience through

your participation in an exchange program, the ultimate extra-curricular

activity.

OUR STUDENT ALUMNIStudents that have participated in our study abroad programs have been

accepted into some of the most prestigious colleges and universities in

the nation including: Columbia University, Cornell University Dartmouth

College, Stanford University, UC Berkeley, and Yale University. AYUSA

AYUSA Study Abroad is a leader in cultural exchange programs for

high school students because we strive to deliver the highest quality

programs to our participants. Students ask for choice and we provide

over 36 unique study abroad program options.

CHOICE AYUSA Study Abroad offers programs in Europe, North, Central and

South America, Asia and the Pacific Rim. You can choose from dynamic

cultural programs in 12 countries and also decide the duration of your

stay for a summer, semester, trimester or an academic year. Pursue

your interest in art, architecture, foreign language, adventure sports or

community service all while you study abroad!

SERVICE & SUPPORT

We will assist you every step of the way. A personal Program Advisor

will be assigned to you the moment you contact AYUSA. Our advisors

have extensive study abroad experience and are committed to making

the decision to study abroad easy for you. With AYUSA Study Abroad,

you will also receive pre-departure and in-country orientations and

dependable overseas support through our Local Coordinators.

CULTURAL EXCURSIONS One of the most exciting aspects of studying abroad is exploring the

country and traveling to new destinations. On many of our programs we

offer the opportunity for students to participate in organized excursions

to explore popular sites in their country and surrounding regions.

SAFETYThe safety of our students while traveling abroad is very important to us.

We ensure our students’ safety by thoroughly screening and preparing

04

WHY STUDY ABROAD? THE AYUSA STUDYABROAD DIFFERENCE

FLY TOGETHER

“I liked how we all met in D.C. and flew out together... this was

one of the things I was nervous about (flying alone overseas)

and I really appreciated being able to meet the others before

we arrived.”

- Kelly, Central Bucks High School East,

Doylestown, PA

05

students go on to pursue degrees in international business, pre-medicine,

architecture, art and education. Over 95% of our alumni say that studying

abroad with AYUSA has enriched their life and given them a competitive

edge for college.

families and students prior to program departure. We also provide

guidance and supervision through our Local Coordinators and 24-

hour emergency assistance should the need arise.

EXPLORE YOUR DESTINATION

Costa Rica (Summer) Ecuador (Year & Semester)

Japan (Semester & Summer)

China (Summer)Australia (Year & Semester)

SUMMER CULTURALEXPLORATION

Breathe, feel, speak, explore. Summer…

Soak in the sun on the beaches of the Mediterranean

Climb the Eiffel Tower

...on our Summer Cultural Exploration programs there are so many opportunities,

it will be hard to pick where to go.

Language immersion classes, cultural workshops, community involvement and

experiential learning form the foundations of our curriculum. Classes will be held

each morning with planned activities in the afternoons. On weekends, you will

explore your host country together with other AYUSA students, taking in as much

of the local culture as possible. Each unique program we offer introduces you to

the real culture of the countries you visit. Join us this summer and grow. There is

no previous language requirement for any AYUSA Summer Cultural Exploration

program.

“Although I learned a ton about the culture and the language, I felt that I grew

most because I was able to learn about different singular people. That is what

really made the trip amazing, being able to talk to so many people from so many

different backgrounds. It was fantastic.”

- Margaret– Reed Henderson High School, West Chester, PA

France, Amboise Summer Cultural Exploration

06 07

Italy (Summer)France (Year, Semester & Summer)

Germany (Year, Semester & Summer)

The Netherlands (Year & Semester)

Ireland (Year & Semester) Spain (Year, Semester, Trimester & Summer)

Switzerland (Summer)

Central and South America

09

CHINABEIJINGEXPLOREOf all the cities in Asia, few offer visitors the opportunity to see ancient and

modern juxtaposed on such a grand scale as Beijing. AYUSA students will

spend three full weeks in the political capital of China. During your time here

you will see countless ancient wonders, such as the famed Great Wall, and

modern marvels, including the Olympic Park, Bird’s Nest, Water Cube and

Olympic village. The AYUSA Summer Cultural Exploration program in China

combines classroom learning and travel with a local homestay experience.

LEARN Intensive Chinese language and culture classes take place in the morning,

Monday through Friday, for three hours per day. To ensure quality instruction,

classes are taught by fully qualified Chinese instructors and the average

student-to-teacher ratio is 10:1.

EXPERIENCETwo to three afternoons per week students participate in a variety of organized

activities. Students will have the chance to explore Beijing through guided

excursions to the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Beihai Park,

the Water Cube, the Bird’s Nest, Wangfujing Street and many more attractions.

Afternoon cultural activities are hands-on and will include opportunities to learn

Gongfu-Changquan, Taiji, Chinese paper cutting and table tennis.

TRAVELStudents will have a chance to explore the vibrant heritage of China through

guided and chaperoned visits to the following destinations:

NANJING, WUXI, SUZHOU & HANGZHOU

Discover the natural beauty of China through various excursions. Explore

Nanjing the national hub of education, research, tourism and transportation.

Journey to Wuxi, also known as “little Shanghai.” Renowned for its beautiful

stone bridges, pagodas and meticulously designed gardens, Suzhou is

famous as an important tourist destination. Enjoy Hangzhou, one of the

most renowned and prosperous cities in China for the past 1,000 years!

PROGRAM FINALE: SHANGHAI

Spend a few nights in the modern commercial and financial center of

China and enjoy shopping in the world famous plazas while sampling

delicious, authentic Chinese food.

HOUSINGAYUSA Study Abroad students will spend the first three weeks on program

living with carefully selected local Chinese host families. Homestays

allow for a deeper immersion into Chinese culture and give students an

opportunity to practice their Chinese. Adjustment to host family life and

Chinese culture will be assisted by an On-Site Coordinator. During the final

week of your program you will stay in tourist class hotels.

Summer Cultural Exploration Chinese Language and Culture

Length:

Dates:

Accommodation:

Location:

Academics

Age:

4 weeks

July

Homestay & Hotels

Beijing, China

Mandarin Language & Culture

14-18 years old

AYUSA Study Abroad was very memorable because it wasn’t only about learning a new language or just visiting sights. We learned both the Chinese language and the culture. The group size was also perfect since we all got to know each other very well by the end of the program. We also got to experience a dorm and a homestay program, which both were very fun but different.

TerryHunter College High School, Forest Hills, NY; China Summer Cultural Exploration

08

Summer Cultural Exploration: Choose Your Focus

CHINA: BEIJING

COSTA RICA: SAN JOSÉ

FRANCE: AMBOISE

GERMANY: BERLIN

ITALY: FLORENCE

JAPAN: TOKYO

SPAIN: BARCELONA

SWITZERLAND: GENEVA

Homestay Dorm Language Leadership OutdoorAdventure

ArtHistory

Fashion CommunityService

EXPLORECosta Rica is highly regarded as one of the most popular tourist

destinations in the world. Pristine beaches, perfect waves, lush jungles

and mountains and a stunning diversity of tropical flora and fauna attract

visitors from around the globe. Those who visit Costa Rica and only see

these natural wonders return home with amazing stories of adventure,

but often with very little sense of the true culture of Costa Rica. AYUSA’s

unique Costa Rica program is designed to go far deeper than the normal

trip to this fascinating country. With AYUSA— you will experience not

only the beauty and the adventure that Costa Rica is famous for, but you

will also be truly immersed in the culture through language study and

meaningful community service projects.

LEARN This four week program begins in Heredia, a quiet suburb of the bustling

capital city of San José. There you will live with warm and welcoming

host families while attending language school. After morning language

classes, you will have to opportunity to learn about and participate in

many other aspects of tico culture, from music to food to dance.

EXPERIENCEThe group will move on to a beautiful mountain village south of San José.

For the next two weeks, you will live as a group and work alongside

the townspeople on projects which they have identified as addressing

their most important needs. Through this day to day interaction, you

will come to know the Costa Rica that most people never even see.

The villagers live in the most beautiful setting in the world, among an

eye-popping bounty of tropical fruits and organic vegetables. Organic

coffee cooperatives help farmers pool their resources and earn as fair a

price for their hard work as possible. Whether you are working to build

a children’s park, reconstruct solar coffee dryers or teach English to

local youth, you will learn first hand about the realities of life for the rural

campesino. There will also be plenty of free time to cool off in pristine

swimming holes, dance at the local fiestas and swing in hammocks as

afternoon rain showers leave rainbows arching over the jungle. In the

evenings, your guides will engage the group in lively discussions and

reflections designed to highlight the cultural awareness and learning

that you have been experiencing day to day.

TRAVELAfter a final farewell to your host community, the group will embark upon

a week-long adventure tour to showcase the natural treasures Costa

Rica offers. White water rafting through rainforest canyons, ziplining

through cloudforest canopies, learning to surf on picture perfect Pacific

waves and hiking at the base of the world’s most active volcano are just

a few of the many adventures you may have as you travel the country.

HOUSINGIn Heredia, our students will stay with carefully selected host families

near the school. Homestays allow for a deeper immersion into the tico

culture and provide invaluable personal contact with native Spanish

speakers. While performing community service and traveling, the group

will stay together in comfortable group housing.

Length:

Dates:

Accommodation:

Location:

Academics

Age:

4 weeks

July

Homestay & Group Accommodations

Costa Rica

Spanish Language and Culture Classes

14-18 years old

Summer Cultural ExplorationSpanish Language & Community Service

COSTA RICASAN JOSÉ

10

EXPLOREKnown as the “Garden of France,” the Loire Valley is a beautiful region

famous for its cuisine, castles and the purity of its spoken French.

Amboise is located above the Loire River in the center of this region.

The preferred residence of Charles VIII, Amboise is still dominated by

the castle the monarch built there in the 15th century. Only a 20-minute

train ride from the busy university city of Tours, Amboise is a charming,

small town with a rich history and beautiful natural setting - the ideal

environment in which to study French.

LEARN Intensive French courses take place every morning, Monday through

Friday, for four hours per day. Students will be given a placement

exam upon arrival and assigned to a class of the appropriate level. A

personalized, interactive approach is emphasized with an average

student-to-teacher ratio of 10:1. In addition to language instruction,

students will have full access to the schools’s médiathèque with

its computers, French CDs and DVDs and multimedia library. Each

afternoon, facilitators will lead discussions on topics such as the acting

of Gérard Depardieu, the historical significance of Catherine de Médicis

and the geography of the Loire Valley. There will also be a French pastry-

making class and a crèpe party!

EXPERIENCEAYUSA Study Abroad maintains a good balance between planned

activities and free time throughout the program. Two to three days

per week, organized afternoon activities are offered such as visit to

the Savonnières Caves, canoeing on the Loire River, bike riding in the

countryside, tasting of produits régionaux and a visit to Leonardo da

Vinci’s home at the Clos Lucé.

TRAVELIncluded in the program, the following guided excursions allow students

time to enjoy other fascinating destinations in France.

CHAMBORD, CHEVERNY, VILLANDRY & SACHE

Day trips to explore two of the region’s famous châteaux and the

bustling market town of Blois. Other days trips include Villandry, one

of the last Renaissance castles built along the Loire, and Saché, a

favorite retreat of the 19th century literary figure Balzac.

PROGRAM FINALE: PARIS!

Walk along the Seine River, visit Notre Dame Cathedral and explore the

streets of the Latin Quarter, the center of Paris’ student community for

centuries. Discover some of the city’s famous museums including the

Louvre and the Musée D’Orsay.

HOUSINGHomestays allow for a deeper immersion into French culture and provide

invaluable personal contact with native French speakers. Adjustment

to host family life and French culture will be assisted by an On-Site

Coordinator.

Length:

Dates:

Accommodation:

Location:

Academics

Age:

4 weeks

July

Homestay

Amboise, France

French Language and Culture Classes

16-18 years old

Summer Cultural ExplorationFrench Language and Culture

FRANCEAMBOISE

My experience in France was beyond anything

I could have imagined. I felt very safe with

AYUSA, and if there were any problems, I

felt very comfortable talking to my On-Site

Coordinator. All the activities planned were

really fun and it was nice that they were already

organized. There was a perfect balance of free

time, time to meet people and hang out with

friends, time to explore the culture and time

to learn the language. Everyone could shape

their own experiences, but at the same time,

there was enough structure that we always had

things to look forward to.

Joni

Mt Greylock Regional High School,

Williamstown, MA; France - Amboise

Summer Cultural Exploration

11

EXPLOREOnce the divided city of Germany, Berlin is a fascinating combination of

old and new, East and West. As the capital city with roughly 3.4 million

inhabitants, it bursts with energy and vitality. Berlin’s international and

diverse population contributes to the unique flair of the city, which is

apparent in each of Berlin’s different districts. Berliners especially enjoy

the summer months when they can sit in outdoor cafés and spend an

afternoon enjoying the sunshine. The AYUSA Summer Cultural Exploration

program provides students with the opportunity to study German in an

invigorating environment while immersing themselves in German culture.

LEARN Intensive German courses take place in the morning, Monday through

Friday, with four 45-minute lessons per day. Students will be given a

placement exam upon arrival and assigned to a class of the appropriate

level, with a maximum student-to-teacher ratio of 14:1.Students expand

their language skills through conversation and group activities, as well

as individual assignments. Rather than focusing purely on grammar,

students will read and discuss readings about German history, politics

and social issues. Students will also enhance their language and cultural

knowledge by participating in a variety of afternoon activities, such as

viewing German films, visiting art and history museums and meeting

with German youth for a cup of coffee.

EXPERIENCEAfternoon activities are offered two afternoons each week. All planned

activities are facilitated by the On-Site Coordinator. AYUSA Study

Abroad maintains a good balance between planned activities and free

time throughout the program. Potential activities include a tour through

Berlin’s underground, a bicycle excursion through Berlin’s historic city

center and a boat trip along the Spree River.

TRAVELIncluded in the program, the following excursions allow students time to

enjoy other notable destinations in Germany.

BERLIN, POTSDAM & WEIMAR

Discover Germany’s most interesting cities on three guided day trips.

PROGRAM FINALE: DRESDEN & PRAGUE!

Once destroyed by firebombs during World War II, Dresden citizens

have rebuilt their “old town” to fit its former grandeur. Students will

have the opportunity to see the famous opera house, explore the

thriving university section and take a steamboat trip along the Elbe

River. A short train ride away and you will arrive at the vibrant Czech

capital of Prague. Students will experience its breathtaking views and

fairy tale architecture.

HOUSINGAYUSA Study Abroad students will stay with carefully selected host

families. Homestays allow for a deeper immersion into German culture

and provide invaluable personal contact with native German speakers.

Adjustment to host family life and German culture will be assisted by an

On-Site Coordinator.

Length:

Dates:

Accommodation:

Location:

Academics

Age:

4 weeks

July

Homestay

Berlin, Germany

German Language and Culture Classes

15-18 years old

Summer Cultural ExplorationGerman Language and Culture

GERMANYBERLIN

13

24

ITALYFLORENCEEXPLOREKnown as the Cradle of the Renaissance, Florence boasts a rich artistic

and cultural heritage. When Dante elected to write the Divine Comedy

in the Florentine dialect he elevated it to the status of Classical Italian;

a status it enjoys to this day. At once a world class cultural center and

a small city designed on a very human scale, Florence is the ideal place

to study the language, art and culture of Italy. Classes will take place

in the heart of Florence, in an historic 19th century building facing the

Piazza della Repubblica, just minutes from the Piazza della Signoria and

the Cathedral.

LEARN AYUSA Study Abroad students study Italian language and culture four

hours per day, Monday through Friday. Students will receive an orientation

their first day at the school, as well as an Italian language placement

exam. AYUSA Study Abroad welcomes all levels of Italian students on

its programs, from beginner to advanced. AYUSA Study Abroad courses

are all taught by fully qualified language instructors, and the average

student-to-teacher ratio is 10:1. Classes are highly interactive and

students will improve their comprehension and vocabulary by reading

and discussing Italian newspapers, listening and reciting Italian music

and conducting role-playing exercises such as interviews and debates.

EXPERIENCETwo to three afternoons per week are dedicated to planned cultural

and leisure activities. Afternoon activities may include: museum visits,

walking tours, Friday movies, a cooking class, swimming at a local pool

and shopping at Italian outlet stores.

TRAVELOn the weekends, students will experience some of Italy’s wonders

through the following included and organized excursions:

LE CINQUE TERRE & SIENA

Visit the communities of Corniglia, Manarola, Riomaggiore and Vernazza,

and see a glimpse into another era. Then explore the Tuscan countryside

through a walking tour which will incorporate some of the area’s Gothic

treasures including the Campo, the Duomo and San Domenico.

PROGRAM FINALE: ROME!

This two-day, two-night excursion features a hotel stay and an exciting

evening tour of Rome. By day, students will take guided tours of the

city which include sites such as Vatican City, the Colisseum, the Piazza

Navona, Trinita dei Monti, Castel Sant’Angelo and the museum of the

Palazzo Borghese.

HOUSINGAYUSA Study Abroad students will stay with carefully selected host

families (2 students per room). Homestays allow for a deeper immersion

into Italian culture and provide invaluable personal contact with native

Italian speakers. Adjustment to host family life and Italian culture will be

assisted by an On-Site Coordinator.

Length:

Dates:

Accommodation:

Location:

Academics

Age:

4 weeks

July

Homestay

Florence, Italy

Italian Language and Culture Classes

15-18 years old

Summer Cultural ExplorationItalian Language and Culture

12

14

JAPANTOKYOEXPLOREDiscover the unique blend of old and new, and of traditional and modern in

present day Japan. Visit the museum dedicated to your favorite anime or

manga characters and artists, see the Buddhist temples of Kamakura and take

Japanese language classes. The AYUSA Summer Cultural Exploration Program

is based in Tokyo and includes a week in the Kyoto area. This program is ideal

for students who want to learn or improve their Japanese language skills while

exploring the changing cultural landscape of Japan.

LEARN Cultural Exploration participants take intensive Japanese classes each morning,

Monday through Friday for three hours per day. To ensure quality instruction

courses are taught by fully qualified Japanese instructors, and the student-

to-teacher ratio is 13:1. Japanese language ability is further strengthened and

enforced through afternoon activities and excursions. The second and third

week of the program becomes a true exchange experience when AYUSA

students are joined by local Japanese students. During these two weeks, both

groups of students will have the opportunity to learn more about each other’s

culture and language through organized group activities, shared study time and

local excursions. Students will be given a placement exam upon arrival and

assigned to a class of the appropriate level.

EXPERIENCETwo to three afternoons per week, Cultural Exploration students will experience a

sampling of traditional and modern Japanese culture through organized activities.

Guided activities include a visit to Akihabara, the epicenter of electronics, manga

and anime culture. In many cafes in Akihabara, the staff dresses up as anime

characters! Students will also have the opportunity to explore the Edo Museum

and Imperial Palace, providing a glimpse into the humble beginnings of Tokyo.

Students will learn the basics of Shodo (calligraphy) from a master calligrapher

and have a chance to try their hand at calligraphy. Of course, no trip to Japan is

complete without trying out a Japanese Onsen (hot spring).

TRAVELCultural Exploration students explore the vibrant heritage and

countryside of Japan together.

Our guided excursions will take students to some of Japan’s cultural

highlights. Students will visit the coastal town of Kamakura, known for

its temples, shrines and gardens. Students will enjoy Fujikyu amusement

park at the base of Mt. Fuji. Students will conclude the program with 6

days in Kyoto. Once the emperor’s residence, Kyoto’s historic shrines

and temples transport you back to another era.

HOUSINGWhile in Tokyo, students in Tokyo will stay in dormitories at the National

Olympic Memorial Youth Center in rooms with a shared bathroom. An On-

Site Coordinator will live in the dormitories with the students and supervise

activities. In Kyoto, students will be housed in Japanese style hotels.

Summer Cultural ExplorationJapanese Language & Culture

AYUSA definitely changed my life. I learned

many new things and came home with

life long friends. I had always wanted to

go to Japan. Sue and Matt (the On-Site

Coordinators) made it an amazing experience;

they were both amazing people and were so

easy to connect with. I believe I learned more

about myself also. When I came back home I

was told I was like a totally different person, in

a good way. It was an experience of a lifetime.

Renu

Klein Oak High School, Tomball, TX

Japan Summer Cultural Exploration

Length:

Dates:

Accommodation:

Location:

Academics

Age:

4 weeks

July–Aug

Dormitory, Japanese-style Hotels

Tokyo, Japan

Japanese Language Classes

15-18 years old

SPAINBARCELONAEXPLORELearn Spanish in one of the most exciting and beautiful cities in the world

– Barcelona! Sprawled between the beaches of the Mediterranean and

the mountains of Montjuïc, Barcelona is an avant-garde, multicultural

meeting place where the undulating Art Nouveau structures of Antoni

Gaudí like the famous Sagrada Familia and the medieval architecture of

the Gothic Quarter combine to form a fascinating European metropolis.

Barcelona is not only the capital of the region of Catalonia, but also

the Spanish center of fashion, art, architecture and gastronomy. It’s

considered the most diverse and cosmopolitan city in Spain.

LEARN Intensive Spanish courses take place in the morning, Monday through

Friday, for four hours per day. Students will be given a placement exam

upon arrival and assigned to a class of the appropriate level. Students

will broaden their language comprehension by watching Spanish films,

listening to music and even learning how to make traditional Spanish

and Catalan dishes! The school is housed in a building equipped with

modern amenities including a computer lab, common rooms and

handicapped access.

EXPERIENCETwo to three afternoons per week, organized cultural and leisure activities

allow for further exploration of Barcelona and the surrounding areas.

Typical activities include: visits to the Picasso museum, the Tibidabo

amusement park, the magic fountain water show at Montjuïc, the

famous Boqueria market and regular outings to the beach. Scavenger

hunts in Barcelona’s historic center, a visit to Gaudi’s Parc Güell and a

walking tour of Las Ramblas are also offered. All organized activities are

facilitated by an On-Site Coordinator.

TRAVELOn the weekend, students will experience some of Spain’s wonders

through the following organized and included excursions:

MONTSERRAT, TARRAGONA & FIGUERAS

Enjoy the mysterious, monolithic peaks of Montserrat, the “saw-tooth

mountain” – a national park offering breathtaking views across the plain

all the way to Barcelona and the sea. Then stroll through Tarragona –

“the Balcony of the Mediterranean,” one of the most elegant cities of the

Iberian peninsula. In Figueras, explore the birthplace of Salvador Dalí

and the extravagant museum which the artist designed himself.

PROGRAM FINALE: LA COSTA BRAVA!

The program will conclude with a special multi-day excursion to the

Costa Brava. Students will spend the last couple of days relaxing on the

warm sandy beaches.

HOUSINGStudents will stay with carefully selected host families (2 students per

room). Homestays allow for a deeper immersion into Spanish culture

and provide invaluable personal contact with native Spanish speakers.

Adjustment to host family life and Spanish culture will be assisted by an

On-Site Coordinator.

Length:

Dates:

Accommodation:

Location:

Academics

Age:

4 weeks

July

Homestay

Barcelona, Spain

Spanish Language and Culture Classes

15-18 years old

Summer Cultural ExplorationSpanish Language and Culture

15

SWITZERLANDGENEVAEXPLOREThe Globalization & International Business program in Geneva,

Switzerland provides students with the unique opportunity to experience

one of the world’s most important global commercial centers. Through

hands-on trade simulations, leadership development workshops,

and the opportunity to meet with leaders in the fields of international

diplomacy, commerce and business, you will gain valuable experience

to help you understand and participate in the global marketplace.

LEARN Through a comprehensive program of seminars and interactive

simulations led by the National Student Leadership Conference (NSLC),

you will explore the transformation of the economy in this global age,

wrestle with the complex ethical questions that confront business and

government leaders around the world and visit international institutions

such as the United Nations, the International Red Cross and the

International Labor Organization. This is the 5th year that AYUSA has

partnered with the NSLC to provide this unique program. Since 1989,

NSLC has developed programs focusing on leadership, business and

globalization for tens of thousands of outstanding high school students.

College credit is available through NSLC.

EXPERIENCETo take a study break from the busy academic curriculum, the group

will head out together each day to visit sites around Geneva. Some of

the most popular activities include enjoying the annual Geneva festival,

a visit to the famous “jet d’eau” which spouts 500 feet above Lake

Geneva, visiting the Olympic Museum in Lausanne and exploring the

lakeside town of Montreux. Students will also visit a real Swiss cheese

factory and a chocolaterie. Various evening activities will help you get to

know your new friends from high schools all over the United States.

TRAVELEach day, you will immerse yourself in Switzerland’s rich culture by

visiting many nearby historical attractions, all within driving distance

from Geneva.

MONTREUX & CHÂTEAU DE CHILLON, LAUSANNE & MONT BLANC!

Each summer, Montreux attracts people of all ages from around the

world to experience its cool jazz. Lausanne is the host to the International

Olympic Committee and two major universities. Discover its beautiful

port and Old Town, which dates back to the 14th century. Mont Blanc

(French for white mountain), or Monte Bianco (Italian ‘White Mountain’),

also known as “La Dame Blanche” (French, the white lady) is a mountain

in the Alps. With its 4,810 m (15,781 ft) summit, it is the highest mountain

in the Alps and Western Europe.

HOUSINGStudents in the Globalization & International Business program will be

based in Archamps, France, approximately 10 kilometers outside of

Geneva. Students are accommodated in double occupancy rooms.

Residential advisors and administrative staff stay on the same floors as

the students and are always available.

Length:

Dates:

Accommodation:

Location:

Academics

Age:

12 days

August

Hotel

Geneva, Switzerland

International Business and Globalization

14-18 years old

Summer Cultural ExplorationLeadership and International Business

41

ACADEMIC YEAR, TRIMESTER, FALL AND SPRING SEMESTER PROGRAMS

“You learn a lot about yourself in the process of learning about other people and

different cultures. It also helps you become less selfish as you think about others

and their point of view and not just your own.”

Veronica Sanchez

Clear Creek High School, Bellevue, WA France Spring Semester

Live with a carefully selected host family and attend a local high school in the

country of your choice for a trimester, fall, spring or academic year program.

Longer program options provide you with the opportunity to dramatically improve

your language skills while fully immersing yourself in your host country’s culture.

Become involved in school or community activities and learn what it’s like to be a

student in another country. Plus make lifelong friendships and lasting memories

during your adventure abroad.

Offered in Australia, Ecuador, France, Germany, Ireland, Japan,

the Netherlands, and Spain.

1716

18

AUSTRALIAEXPLORECome and see for yourself what it is like to live “Down Under” on the

world’s largest island and smallest continent. Australia is about the same

size as the continental U.S., but has the lowest population density in the

world. 85% of Australians live in urban areas, mostly in coastal cities in the

southeastern end of the continent running from Brisbane to Adelaide.

Australia is a country as diverse as it is fascinating and will offer a wealth

of experiences no matter where you live. From beautiful beaches and

modern cities to spectacular rainforests and the famous red outback

plains, students can enjoy Australia’s rich diversity. There are 7,000

beaches in Australia – more than any other nation. It is also the native

habitat for the kangaroo and the koala. Australia’s 3,400 national parks

and wildlife sanctuaries offer natural beauty and the richness of Aboriginal

culture. Australia’s unspoiled natural environment, combined with the

friendly nature of Australians, make it an ideal place to study abroad.

LEARN The educational system of Australia is recognized worldwide. The range

of subjects offered varies from school to school. Typical course subjects

you will be studying include: foreign language , math, English, science

and physical education. Some schools offer optional classes, such as

music or computer science. Every school has a Local Coordinator who

will help AYUSA Study Abroad students choose appropriate subjects

and organize their academic schedule on the first day of class.

The school year in Australia runs from January to November. However,

the AYUSA Study Abroad program is adapted so that Americans may

spend an academic year in Australia from July to July. The school year

is generally divided into four terms, with two week vacations between

each term.

EXPERIENCE

The Australian lifestyle is very laid-back and friendly. Students enjoy

the welcoming atmosphere as they become part of their new host

family. Sports usually play a major role in the social life of Australian

high school students. Cricket, Australian-rules football and rugby are

the most popular sports in Australia. However, many people enjoy other

sports such as soccer, basketball, cycling, bush walking (hiking), tennis,

lawn bowling, golf and water sports, such as surfing, swimming and

kayaking. Many girls learn netball - a game similar to basketball. Going

to the beach and camping are common outdoor activities. Australians

can be enthusiastic spectators as well - the Melbourne Cup horse race

is actually a state holiday in Victoria!

Many students enjoy going to the movies. The Australian film industry is

one of the largest and most successful in the world and is responsible for

films such as “Muriel’s Wedding,” “Babe,” “The Road Warrior,” “Strictly

Ballroom” and the recent epic “Australia.” All of Australia’s major cities

have dance, theater and symphony performances.

PROGRAM DETAILSAYUSA students studying in Australia are placed with carefully

selected host families in the northeastern tropical state of Queensland.

Adjustment to host family life and Australian culture will be assisted by

a Local Coordinator.

Dates:

Housing:

Academics:

Language:

Age:

Academic Year (July - July)Fall Semester (July - December)Fall Trimester (July - September)Spring Semester (January - July)

Family Homestay

Local High School

No language requirement

15-19 years old

Academic Year Fall SemesterFall TrimesterSpring Semester

ECUADOREXPLOREEcuador, located at the equator, is one of South America’s best kept

secrets! From the colonial capital of Quito high in the mountains to

remote villages deep in the Amazon jungle to the magnificent shores

of the Galapagos Islands, the incredible diversity of Ecuador will amaze

you. Ecuador’s stunning natural beauty, along with its rich indigenous

culture, makes it a fascinating study abroad destination.

LEARN AYUSA Study Abroad students are generally placed in private high

schools in a region where the school year runs from September to

July. Occasionally, students are responsible for covering a low monthly

additional fee to attend private schools. Students usually wear uniforms,

and single-sex schools are very common in Ecuador. The school

will determine each student’s schedule based on a full review of the

student’s application and academic record. Typical subjects include:

Spanish language and literature, science, history, mathematics, English,

philosophy, computer science, physical education and economics. All

programs require one year of high school Spanish language study or

the demonstrated equivalent, as classes will be conducted in Spanish.

Exposure to Spanish in the classroom and in daily life will help increase

your fluency. Students can also arrange for additional Spanish classes

in the afternoons and on weekends for a nominal fee.

Why immerse yourself in the Spanish language? Spanish is spoken by

over 320 million people worldwide!

EXPERIENCEEcuadorian society is very family-oriented and students are likely to

experience the benefit of living with a close-knit family unit. Food is

a very important part of the culture. Each holiday is associated with

a special kind of food and every town has a specialty dish. Meals are

considered a good time for families to gather around the table to talk

about their day. What events will you share with your new host family?

Ecuadorians participate in community activities such as women’s

clubs, church groups, sports clubs or mingas (community improvement

projects). Salsa dancing is popular so you might want to take a class and

learn some new dance steps. Nationally, fútbol (soccer) is the favorite

sport, followed by Ecuadorian volleyball, a game played with a heavy

ball and three players on each team.

PROGRAM DETAILSAYUSA Study Abroad students stay with carefully selected host families

throughout Ecuador. Adjustment to host family life and Ecuadorian

culture will be assisted by a Local Coordinator. For an additional

cost, students will be given the opportunity to participate in optional

excursions around Ecuador which explore various ecological wonders

like rain forests or the Galapagos Islands.

Dates:

Housing:

Academics:

Language:

Age:

Academic Year (September - June)Fall Semester (September - January)Spring Semester (January - June)

Family Homestay

Local High School

1 year of Spanish

15-18 years old

Academic Year Fall SemesterSpring Semester

I would recommend AYUSA Study Abroad to

others because I learned so many things about

a new culture, language, the world and myself.

I now have much more conf idence and I am

more outgoing. It was a once in a lifetime, life-

changing experience. I would also recommend

AYUSA because of the help and support they

offered before departure and throughout the

program.

Morgan

Kickapoo High School, Springfield, MO

Ecuador Spring Semester

19

20

FRANCEEXPLOREDiscover the country famous for its food, fashion, art and literature!

While most people tend to think of Paris, the “City of Light,” France has

much more to offer than just one city. From the beaches of Brittany in the

north to the Cote d’Azur in the south, the landscape of France contains

forests, farmlands and mountains – including Western Europe’s highest

peak, Mt. Blanc. As you study the history and culture of France, you will

see for yourself why the French are so proud of their heritage. Art lovers

cannot resist France with its history of artists and sculptors – and no one

can forget the famous French cuisine!

LEARN On our academic programs in France, students will attend a local French

high school called a lycée. Education is a very important aspect of a

French teen’s life and many hours a week are devoted to schoolwork.

Your curriculum will be based on age, past course work and language

ability. Typically, students will take the following subjects: French

literature, history, geography, mathematics, science, English and a

foreign language (German, Spanish or Italian). The school may also offer

classes in music, theater and art to round out your studies. Academic

Year, Fall Semester and Spring Semester programs require two years of

high school French language study, or the demonstrated equivalent as

classes will be conducted in French. This is a great way to improve your

language skills and return home fluent in French!

Why learn French? French is spoken by over 265 million people

worldwide and is an official language in 35 countries!

EXPERIENCEFrench teens spend a lot of time socializing with their friends and family.

Families often enjoy long dinners together during the weekend. These

meals are a great time to share experiences, learn new traditions and try

new culinary delights. Be sure to ask your host family for the recipe of

your favorite French dish so you can recreate it on your return home. The

French possess a joie de vivre, a love of life and a love of animals. Many

families have pets as part of the household – in fact, pets outnumber

children in France!

The French love to watch team sports, such as soccer and rugby, but

tend to participate in individual sports, including: cycling, fishing, tennis,

hiking, skiing and sailing. The annual Tour de France cycling race and the

French Open tennis tournament are popular national events. In addition

to sports, popular activities include visiting museums, attending plays

and concerts or socializing at a local cafe.

PROGRAM DETAILSAYUSA students are placed with carefully selected host families

throughout the many beautiful provinces of France. Adjustment to host

family life and French culture will be assisted by a Local Coordinator.

Students will receive a pre-departure orientation in their home country

to prepare them for the exciting study abroad adventure ahead.

**Special Note: Students applying to any long-term program in France (excluding the Fall Trimester) are required to get a student visa.

Dates:

Housing:

Academics:

Language:

Age:

Academic Year (August - June)Fall Semester (August - January)Fall Trimester (August - December)Spring Semester (January - June)

Family Homestay

Local High School

2 years of French

15-18 years old

Academic Year Fall SemesterFall TrimesterSpring Semester

GERMANYEXPLORELocated in the center of Europe, Germany is a land of ground-breaking

ideas and centuries-old traditions. From the scenic mountains of the

south to the romantic Rhine valley, Germany welcomes you to explore

its lush, green gardens, parks and forests, as well as historic castles

and museums. Learn first-hand about the rich history of Germany and

gain insight into German politics both past and present. You will enjoy

the energetic atmosphere of German pop culture and assimilate into

the modern teenage lifestyle. Celebrate national and regional holidays

with your host family, and discover Germany’s heritage in music, history,

science and art. Come and experience the heart of Europe!

LEARN The German school system is very different from its American

counterpart. Their system is divided into three types of schools that lead

students toward a vocational or academic future. AYUSA Study Abroad

students will attend what is called the Gymnasium. This is a nine-year

secondary school that provides a comprehensive general education for

students who wish to continue their studies at the university level. Only

30% of German students enter these prestigious schools.

School subjects are divided into three general categories: language,

literature and art; the social sciences; and mathematics, science and

technology. At least one year of high school German language study or

demonstrated equivalent is required for semester and academic year

programs, as all classes are conducted in German.

EXPERIENCEGerman host families are eager to welcome American students and

share their history and customs. Families are typically very active and

enjoy outdoor activities including: biking, hiking, swimming, skiing,

basketball and playing tennis. The arts, especially music and theater,

are well supported in Germany. Even the smallest cities have festivals,

musical performances and social events for you and your family to

enjoy. As a teenager in Germany, you might find you have a bit more

independence than you would at home. Communication and mutual

respect are important in developing a close relationship with your host

family.

PROGRAM DETAILSStudents are given an orientation upon arrival in Berlin, which includes

an initial introduction to this fast-paced, fascinating city. Students

are placed with carefully selected host families throughout Germany.

Students meet regularly with a Local Coordinator in order to ease

adjustment to German culture and family life. Additional assistance/

support is provided by the AYUSA office in Berlin.

Dates:

Housing:

Academics:

Language:

Age:

Academic Year (August - June)Fall Semester (August - January)Fall Trimester (August - December)Spring Semester (January - July)

Family Homestay

Local High School

1 year of German

15-18 years old

Academic Year Fall SemesterFall TrimesterSpring Semester

21

22

IRELANDEXPLOREDiscover one of the friendliest countries in the world where an old saying

proclaims that, “a stranger is a friend you have not yet met.” Famous

for its deep emerald green hills, Ireland is also a country of breathtaking

coast lines, low mountains, numerous lakes and bogs. No matter where

you are in Ireland, you will never be more than 70 miles from the coast.

Explore Ireland’s rich history, myths, music, legends and folklore.

LEARN Ireland has the highest percentage of students who attend school until

the age of 18 of all other countries in Europe. Students will study a

core curriculum consisting of language, science, mathematics, history,

geography and have the opportunity to pursue additional classes in

social awareness, personal development and project work.

Extracurricular activities and sports are an integral part of the school

system in Ireland. One afternoon a week is typically devoted to school

sports. The sports offered will vary from school to school. Typical choices

include: soccer, tennis, swimming, hockey, badminton, basketball, track

and field, squash and volleyball.

Schools in which AYUSA students are placed are carefully selected based

on their academic record and their enthusiasm to accept students from

other countries. Schools may be denominational, multi-denominational

or non-denominational. Almost all schools require uniforms that can be

purchased once you are in Ireland.

EXPERIENCEYou will be welcomed with open arms in Ireland and treated as a true

member of your host family. Participation in mealtimes is an event and

as part of the family you will enjoy the meal and also help out when it

is time for clean-up. To meet new people, students are encouraged to

participate in other types of extracurricular activities including: dance,

theater, music, debate, photography and orienteering (navigating with a

map and compass).

Ireland has a rich musical tradition which is thousands of years old. Be

sure to catch a local band playing and listen for the historic and patriotic

themes that are being transmitted through song.

PROGRAM DETAILSA home country orientation will be provided to help students plan for

their study abroad trip to Ireland. AYUSA Study Abroad students are

placed with carefully selected host families in the Dublin region. All

students will have their own room and study area. A Local Coordinator

will be assigned to each student for support and guidance during their

program stay.

Dates:

Housing:

Academics:

Language:

Age:

Academic Year (September - June)Fall Semester (September - December)Spring Semester (January - June)

Family Homestay

Local High School

No language requirement

15-18 years old

Academic Year Fall SemesterSpring Semester

I feel that AYUSA was the best company

to travel to Ireland with. AYUSA helped

arrange my f lights and had a great pre-

orientation meeting, which I felt helped

answer many of my questions.

Chelsea

Danbury High school, Danbury, CT

Ireland Fall Semester JAPANEXPLOREImmerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of Japan. From geishas,

tea ceremonies and Shinto shrines to manga, anime and Harajuku fashion,

present-day Japan is home to a unique combination of modern and

traditional culture. There is a strong desire to preserve Japan’s rich past;

however, there is also a push for modern innovations and cutting-edge

technology. Speeding bullet trains arrive on schedule to the second; ordering

food is simplified with plastic replicas of menu items; and household toilets

might have more buttons than your remote control! Going to Japan is a

great way to discover a culture that is very different from your own.

LEARN Fall Semester students attend school September through January and

Spring Semester students attend school April through July. In general,

Japanese high schools do not offer many electives; students generally

choose only between fine art, music or calligraphy. The Japanese school

system is more rigorous than its American counterpart. Students may

also find that school policies are stricter. Students are required to wear

a uniform and there are rules that dictate what is acceptable in terms of

appearance regarding: hairstyle, shoes, socks, length of skirt and use

of make-up or accessories. While only one year of Japanese is required

for the Semester programs, the more Japanese you know the faster you

will be able to adjust to host family and school life.

EXPERIENCESchool plays a major role in the social life for many students in Japan.

One reason is that school is the main meeting point for Japanese

teenagers and their friends. In addition, Japanese students are very

active in sports, music and other school-related clubs. Sports and

cultural activities offered vary from school to school. Baseball, the

most popular sport, tends to be highly competitive at all levels. Other

common sports include soccer, volleyball, tennis and kendo, a martial

art. Popular cultural activities include flower arranging and calligraphy.

In Japan, a mix of Western and Japanese influences can be found in

both spectator sports and the arts. Many people enjoy watching sumo

wrestling, judo, kendo and karate. Western performance arts such as

symphonies and ballets are common, but many Japanese are also

interested in traditional arts such as Bunraku (puppet theater) and the

highly stylized dramas of Noh and Kabuki.

PROGRAM DETAILSAYUSA Study Abroad students who choose to study in Japan are

placed with carefully selected host families throughout the country.

Adjustment to host family life and Japanese culture will be assisted by

a Local Coordinator.

Fall Semester and Spring Semester students arrive in Japan for an

orientation which includes an overnight stay in Narita City. Each year

Japanese schools hold an optional event such as a school festival,

athletic event or school trip for seniors.

Dates:

Housing:

Academics:

Language:

Age:

Academic Year (August - June)Fall Semester (August - January)Spring Semester (April - June)

Family Homestay

Local High School

1 year of Japanese

15-18 years old

Academic YearFall SemesterSpring Semester

23

THE NETHERLANDSEXPLOREYou may know that the Netherlands is famous for its tulips, cheese and

windmills but did you know that the Netherlands is home to more bikes

than people? There is something for everyone to enjoy in the Netherlands

– from a coast lined with sand dunes to the historic cities of Utrecht

and Maastricht, and charming Amsterdam, with its miles of canals and

historic gabled houses. The Netherlands also has over 600 museums,

from Van Gogh and Rembrandt to the historic landmark of Anne Frank’s

House. The Dutch are known to be friendly and open-minded, making

the Netherlands a great location to study abroad.

LEARN The Dutch educational system is divided into two sections: a six-year

primary education program and a secondary education program. AYUSA

Study Abroad students will attend a local secondary high school and study

a range of courses including: history, mathematics, science, literature and

language. Getting to and from school can turn into a social activity as

students typically bicycle together to class.

While no previous language study is required, we strongly suggest that

students prepare for their cultural adventure by learning some basic

phrases in Dutch, as all classes will be conducted in Dutch.

Why learn Dutch? Dutch is spoken by 22 million people (and 5 million more

speak it as a second language) from the Netherlands, Belgium, Suriname,

Aruba, the Netherlands Antilles and even Indonesia. Furthermore,

Afrikaans is derived from Dutch and spoken throughout South Africa and

Namibia. Dutch is spoken or understood on five continents!

EXPERIENCEThe Dutch have a strong work ethic and most families have parents that

work outside the home. Dutch teens are taught from a young age to be

very independent. Living with a host family will open your eyes to new

experiences and the way of life in the Dutch culture.

As bicycles are an important form of transportation in the Netherlands,

students will receive a bicycle which is theirs to keep at the end of

the program! The Netherlands is very “bicycle friendly.” There are

practically no hills, and there are as many miles of bike paths as there

are of highways in the Netherlands. Soccer is also a favorite activity, and

volleyball, tennis, hockey, basketball and skating are popular too.

PROGRAM DETAILSAn extensive orientation, including an intensive one-week Dutch course,

will be given to the students upon arrival in the Netherlands to help

acquaint them with Dutch life and culture. Each semester, one excursion

is included in the program fees and one optional excursion can be taken

for an additional cost. Students are placed with carefully selected host

families throughout the Netherlands. Adjustment to host family life and

Dutch culture will be assisted by a Local Coordinator.

Dates:

Housing:

Academics:

Language:

Age:

Academic Year (August - July)Fall Semester (August - January)Spring Semester (January - July)

Family Homestay

Local High School

No language requirement

15-18 years old

Academic Year Fall SemesterSpring Semester

SPAINEXPLOREDiscover the eclectic heritage of Spain! A country the size of Texas,

Spain has been imprinted by many dynamic cultures and civilizations,

including the Greeks, the Romans, the Visigoths and the Moors. Spain

boasts ancient castles and walled cities, world famous museums, such

as the Prado, the Reina Sofia and the Picasso Museum, and astounding

architecture that spans every era of history. In Spain, you will experience

the contrast between historic monuments and a modern lifestyle. No

matter where you are placed, you are sure to enjoy Spain!

LEARN With life in Spain, you are learning something new each day. For

Academic Year, Trimester and Semester programs, students will attend a

local high school where schoolwork will vary by subject from day to day.

The classes are challenging and students are often expected to study

outside the classroom. All students are required to take certain core

courses, which generally include: Spanish language, foreign language,

philosophy, math and science. Additionally, students will be placed in

other areas of study to broaden their curriculum including: arts, science

or technology.

Academic Year, Fall Trimester, Fall Semester and Spring Semester

programs require a minimum of two years of high school Spanish language

study or the demonstrated equivalent, as all classes will be conducted in

Spanish. Students consistently tell us that the exposure to Spanish in the

classroom and in their daily life helped them to become fluent.

Why immerse yourself in the Spanish language? Spanish is spoken by

over 320 million people worldwide!

EXPERIENCEThe Spanish culture is known to be very warm and embracing. La familia

extends beyond the core family unit and includes grandparents, aunts,

uncles and many cousins. The most important meal of the day for the

extended family is the afternoon meal which is a great time to enjoy

delicious regional dishes and share your daily experiences.

Spain is home to some of the best fútbol (soccer) teams in the world, so

it’s no surprise that soccer is the most popular spectator sport. Schools

do not offer team sports, so those interested in participating in sports and

other extracurricular activities often join private clubs.

PROGRAM DETAILSAYUSA students are placed with carefully selected host families

throughout Spain. Adjustment to host family life and Spanish culture will

be assisted by a Local Coordinator. All Academic Year, Fall Trimester, Fall

Semester and Spring Semester students will attend an arrival orientation

in Barcelona, Spain, which includes an opportunity to see some of

the sites in this beautiful city. Students will be given the opportunity

to participate, at an additional cost, in optional, mid-program trips to

Madrid or Paris.

**Special Note: Students applying to any long-term program in Spain (excluding the Fall Trimester) are required to get a student visa.

Dates:

Housing:

Academics:

Language:

Age:

Academic Year (September - June)Fall Semester (September - January)Fall Trimester (September - Dec) no student visa required!Spring Semester (January - June)

Family Homestay

Local High School

2 years of Spanish

15-18 years old

Academic Year Fall SemesterFall TrimesterSpring Semester

AYUSA was incredibly supportive. If I ever

needed anything, my Program Advisor was

just an email away. I just loved the way

the program was set up and the variety it

offered. AYUSA really made me feel like an

important student, and their care for each

student was obvious.

Annika

Winona Cotter High School, Winona,

MN Spain – Spring Semester

24 25

It is the chance of a lifetime, go for it! Y ou learn independence, make new friends and families, give your parents a break, and start a newer more exciting life! It is more fun than you could ever imagine. Y ou won’t want to come home. Thank you soooo much!

Amanda Sweden, Spring 2007

“There’s always something to do, we have all our weekends planned out! Today we went to Rainbow Beach (I got really sun-burnt!), and we are also going to Sunshine Plaza this weekend. This whole program has completely transformed my life forever!

Mackenzie Australia, Spring 2010

26 27

Studying abroad is an amazing experience! I am greeted with the opportunity to try new foods, customs, and activities, which have opened my eyes to the world around me.

Kaitlyn Germany, Academic Year 2009-2010

OUR STUDENTS

AYUSA STUDY ABROAD PROGRAMS INCLUDE: • Round-trip airfare from an AYUSA hub city (excluding U.S. domestic

flights, taxes & fuel surcharges)

• Comprehensive student health and accident insurance

• Pre-departure and in-country orientations

• Placement with a carefully selected host family or in a residence hall,

including food and lodging expenses

• Academic Year, Trimester, and Semester Programs: Enrollment in a

local high school and support from a Local Coordinator

• Summer Cultural Exploration Programs: Language and Culture classes

as well as activities organized by an AYUSA On-Site Coordinator

• Supervision, guidance and support during the application process

and throughout the entire program

• Student Handbook to prepare students and provide helpful tips on

studying abroad

• 24-hour emergency assistance

AYUSA STUDY ABROAD PROGRAM DETAILS

POSSIBLE ADDITIONAL FEES• Personal expenses (e.g., toiletries, clothing, internet, calling card,

activities)

• School expenses (e.g., uniform [if necessary], lunches [depending

on program], books, supplies, local transportation passes)

• Passport and visa application fees, as determined by destination

country

• Private school tuition depending on program

• Certain countries require that participants apply in person for

student visas; travel costs associated with this requirement are

not included and can be significant (please speak to a Program

Advisor for more information)

WHAT ARE THE AYUSA STUDY ABROAD REQUIREMENTS?Successful applicants will be:

• High school students

• 15-18 years old (requirements vary by country)

• Motivated students with a 2.5 GPA or higher on a 4.0 point scale

• Flexible, mature, open-minded and able to adapt to living with a

host family or in a dorm environment

• Eager for the academic challenge of studying in a foreign school

• Able to meet any language requirements that apply (requirements

vary by country)

• In sound physical and mental health

• U.S. or Canadian citizen or permanent resident

ACADEMIC CREDITSCHOLARSHIPS

ACADEMIC CREDITAcademics are a vital component of AYUSA Trimester, Semester and

Academic Year exchange programs; students are enrolled in a full

course schedule at a local upper level high school and are expected to

participate fully in their classes. With careful planning, almost all students

are able to participate on any AYUSA program and complete the credits

needed to graduate from their American high school on time. Each U.S.

high school has its own policies and requirements regarding transfer

credits. The credits that will transfer will be based upon your overseas

school and your American high school’s specific policies and, therefore,

AYUSA cannot guarantee that you will receive credit for coursework

completed abroad. We recommend that you plan ahead and take

any specific courses that you need to meet graduation requirements

before or after you go abroad. You should discuss these matters with

a guidance counselor as soon as you decide to study abroad and get

written documentation of what is required by your school. Our Program

Advisors will be happy to provide you with assistance and advice on

receiving academic credit abroad.

SCHOLARSHIPSAYUSA Study Abroad offers a number of partial scholarships that are

applicable towards all our programs and countries. The earlier you apply,

the more likely it is that you will receive a scholarship. We also consider the

overall quality of the program application – how neat and complete it is,

and how much time and energy you have put into your essays and family

album. We look favorably upon students who have demonstrated some

initiative to fundraise on their own. Ultimately, we expect our scholarship

recipients to be model student ambassadors who demonstrate an

adaptable, flexible and mature personality, a desire to be challenged and

the ability to remain open minded and tolerant of cultural differences.

You can learn more about the scholarships and fundraising ideas at

http://www.ayusa.org/students/study-abroad/scholarships.

HOST FAMILY SCHOLARSHIPIf your family has hosted an exchange student for an Academic

Year or a Semester with our sister division, AYUSA Global Youth

Exchange, you may be eligible for a Host Family Scholarship. Host

Family Scholarships are awarded in the amount of $500 towards any

Academic Year, Fall or Spring Semester program, or $250 towards

any summer program. In order to be eligible for the Host Family

Scholarship, your AYUSA Study Abroad program must start within

two years of the date that your family completed hosting.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

DO I NEED TO BE FLUENT IN ANOTHER LANGUAGE?

None of our Summer Cultural Exploration programs require any language

fluency. Whatever your language ability is currently, we are confident

that if you meet the minimum language requirements and make an effort

to study and speak while abroad, you will succeed in your host country.

While there is an adjustment period, you will be amazed at how quickly

your language skills will improve when immersed in another language.

You do not need to be fluent in your host country’s language to study

abroad; however, some programs require previous language study. The

countries that require previous language study for Academic Year, Fall

and Spring Semester programs are: Ecuador (1 yr Spanish), France (2

yrs French), Germany (1 yr German), Japan (1 yr Japanese), and Spain

(2 yrs Spanish). The following countries have no language requirement:

Australia, Ireland, and the Netherlands.

WHAT KIND OF ASSISTANCE WILL I RECEIVE WHILE I AM ABROAD?

Every AYUSA student has a Local Coordinator who is their primary

contact in their host country throughout the program. In addition to

placing you with a host family and helping you in school, the Local

Coordinator is “on-call” for the duration of the program to answer your

questions, offer guidance to you and your host family in matters of

adjustment and language difficulties, and help with any emergencies.

The AYUSA Study Abroad staff in the United States will provide similar

assistance to your parents while you are abroad.

HOW ARE HOST FAMILIES SELECTED?

We believe that your host family stay is one of the most important

components of a successful study abroad experience. AYUSA ensures

each student’s safety through a comprehensive screening process.

All host families are carefully screened and interviewed by AYUSA’s

overseas partners. An AYUSA representative visits each prospective

family’s home to meet and interview all family members and ensure

quality living arrangements. In some countries, host families are

volunteers whose decision to host an American student is based on

a strong desire to participate firsthand in the international exchange

experience. In other countries, families receive a small stipend to

cover their expenses. For the Summer Cultural Exploration programs

host families often welcome several exchange students from different

countries into their homes, offering an ideal opportunity to experience

multiple cultures under one roof.

GET READY TO EXPLORE YOUR WORLD & HAVE THE EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME!

HOW TO APPLYAYUSA Study Abroad has created an easy application process. We

encourage students to apply early, as our most popular programs fill

up quickly!

1 Learn More About AYUSA Study Abroad

Our knowledgeable Program Advisors can guide you through the

application process and help determine the best program based on

your interests and background. Call 1.800.579.1709 to speak with a

Program Advisor today or visit our website at www.ayusa.org.

2 Discuss Your Program with Your Counselor and Parents

For a long term program, determine what classes you may need to take

at your U.S. high school before and after your exchange program in

order to graduate on time. Ask your counselor about transferring credits.

Review the program details and payment schedule with your parents.

3 Submit Your Full Application

Go online to www.ayusa.org to submit an application with your

$500 deposit. For applicants to our Academic Year, Trimester and

Semester programs, we will conduct a phone interview to discuss your

qualifications, interests and reasons for studying abroad.

4 AYUSA Study Abroad Acceptance

AYUSA Study Abroad will notify you of your acceptance into our Study

Abroad program shortly thereafter!

CALL AYUSA STUDY ABROAD TO APPLY TODAY:800.579.1709 OR VISIT US ONLINE ATWWW.AYUSA.ORG

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www.ayusa.org

800.579.1709

A PART OF INTRAX CULTURAL EXCHANGE

AYUSA Study Abroad is a part of Intrax Cultural Exchange, a family of

companies devoted to cultivating international understanding through

cultural exchange and educational travel, with operations in over 80 countries

worldwide. For more information, visit www.intraxinc.com.

AYUSA Study Abroad

Formerly Intrax Study Abroad

827 West Pender StreetVancouver, BC V6C 3G8

600 California Street, Fl 10San Francisco, CA 94108