A non-profit public benefit organization called ASSE is dedicated to building closer ties of friendship between the United States and other countries by promoting intercultural understanding through youth exchange programs. The program is open to high school students aged between 15 to 18 years who qualify based on their academic performance, character references, and a genuine desire to experience life abroad with a volunteer host family. Students can choose their preferred country, and prior knowledge of the country’s language is not a requirement. Scholarships are available based on academic performance, leadership skills and financial need.
Families abroad are carefully screened, and students do not need to know the language of the host country before departure. They will acquire language skills through experiencing the day-to-day local culture and attending regular high school classes with their new teenage friends.
ASSE also provides an opportunity for American families who are interested in hosting an international student from countries such as Spain, Italy, Germany, Ukraine, Thailand, Japan, and many others. These exceptional young students will attend a local American high school for an academic year or semester and participate in the host family’s daily activities.
