Academic Year Programs Abroad

What kind of people will my host family be?
Terra Lingua USA host families are volunteers, who are warm, caring people and gladly open their homes and hearts to students. Their only hope is to learn more about American culture and to share their family and lifestyle with their new son or daughter. As a member of the family, you will participate in all family activities including mealtimes, and assume the same responsibilities and family rules as your host siblings.

What kind of school will I attend?
You will attend a school near your new home and there are of course, variations by country. In general, school days are longer than in the U.S. and course content more rigorous. Students are expected to attend all classes. Most subjects are compulsory, according to each country. At school you will be expected to follow school rules, do your homework, and maintain a C in each course. The first month or two will be the most difficult because of the language. But you should never hesitate to ask for help from your teachers and host family. Your success at school is necessary for your overall success in an academic stay.

What kind of support network is available?
All students abroad have a local program representative in their host country, as well as access to the staff of the host national office. Someone is always available and eager to assist you throughout your entire stay abroad. You will be able to count on them for any support you may need.

What are the eligibility requirements?

• You must be between the ages of 16 and 18.
  

• Have studied at least two years of the host's language at the beginning of program.
  

• Possess a GPA of 3.0 or better.
  

• Previous experience living away from home.
  

• Possess a mature, open and flexible attitude.
  

How long is the program?
You have the option of choosing one semester or an academic year (usually 10 months).

Will I receive credit?
You will need to check with your U.S. high school guidance counselor to determine which amount of time best fits your needs and if you are able to receive credit during your time abroad. Whether you receive credit for this experience depends on your own high school's policy on foreign study credits.

What type of documentation will I need?
Passport: for travel outside the U.S., a U.S. passport is needed. It is your personal responsibility to make the necessary arrangements to receive your passport before departure. If you already have a passport, please make sure that it is still valid. For more information, you should check with your local post office to find out which branch nearest you issues passports.

• Visa: For students participating in programs over 90 days, a visa is required. It is your personal responsibility to make the necessary arrangements to receive a visa before departure. For more information, you should check with the nearest host country consulate for a visa application and documentation requirements. Terra Lingua USA will provide you with supporting documentation required from the consulate. Consulates require in-person visits now.

What kind of preparation is there for this experience?
Before departure you will receive a student handbook and orientation materials providing useful information and tips about your experience abroad. Your state coordinator will invite you and your parents to an orientation meeting, usually organized in May or early June, at which you will have the opportunity to meet other students and learn how to make the most out of your experience abroad. There will also be an orientation organized by the foreign team after your arrival abroad.

What does the program price include?

• Placement with a carefully screened and selected host family.
  

• Orientation in the U.S. and the host country.
  

• Support network available anytime to ensure that you and your host family have the best possible experience.
  

• Tuition for any schools that may require tuition.
  

• Roundtrip airport transfer to your host family, if distance is involved.
  

• Comprehensive sickness, liability and emergency return insurance.
  

What is not included in the program price?

• Roundtrip international airfare.
  

• Cost of passport and visa.
  

• Pocket money (we strongly recommend at least $250 per month for personal expenses and souvenirs).
  

• Personal expenses (movies, entry fees to parks and museums, snacks and drinks, postage, film, flowers or an ice cream treat for your host family, etc.)

Is there a deadline for application?
March 15th for first semester and full year programs and September 30th for second semester programs. Late applications may be considered. Please do not hesitate to ask.