How AFS Keeps Our Participants Safe

Each year, thousands of young people study abroad through AFS Partners Offices in 55+ countries. The safety and well-being of our participants is the number one priority of our 1,000+ staff and 30,000+ volunteers. We closely monitor health and travel recommendations from authorities, and pledge to be nimble and responsive to circumstances as they change.

We have several measures in place to ensure the well-being of participants during their programmes.

By implementing these measures and providing comprehensive support and resources, AFS strives to create a safe and enriching experience for all participants in their intercultural programmes.

Pre-Departure Preparation:

Before participants leave for their exchange programme, they receive thorough pre-departure training and orientation. This includes information about the host country’s culture, customs, safety guidelines, and health precautions. Participants are educated on how to handle different situations and emergencies that may arise during their stay.

As a family you will receive a printed pack of our Sending Family Handbook, Travel Wallet, Information on Placements, Medical Insurance information and more that is all also readily available in your students portal once they are accepted by AFS New Zealand.

Host Family Screening:

Local Support Network:

24/7 Emergency Support:

AFS provides participants with access to a 24/7 emergency support system. This means that participants can reach out for help or advice at any time, whether it’s related to health issues, safety concerns, or other emergencies. AFS staff and volunteers are trained to respond promptly and effectively to any situation.

There are many points of contact students can have, their individual support person, local AFS chapter office, AFS host national office and the AFS New Zealand in house support team.

Health Insurance:

Regular Check-Ins:

Safety Guidelines and Training:

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Safety

AFS programmes will run in countries where health and safety conditions allow, and student visas are possible. We and AFS Internationals Risk Assessment team observe the continually changing situation on a daily basis.

Our programme availability is up to date

Discover our Study Abroad Programmes

COVID-19

Early in March 2020, some 7,000 students had to end their AFS study abroad programmes early due to the COVID-19 pandemic. AFS volunteers and staff around the world worked day and night to reunite participants with their families in their home countries and continued to provide all programme support and services to those participants who remained under the care of host families before returning home. AFS rapidly reconfigured and deployed a virtual learning platform, based on our AFS Global Competence Certificate, to provide those thousands of young people with ongoing support, community and learning during the crisis.

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Let AFS guide your intercultural adventure

With over 75 years of experience in student exchanges, we know what we’re doing when it comes to support and education! AFS provides comprehensive orientation for all students and families before, during and after your exchange – AFS volunteers and staff will be there to support and guide you the whole way through. In-person orientation camps in New Zealand and your host country are supplemented by our world-leading online Student Learning Journey, an interactive course that brings AFSers from around the world together to develop essential global skills, learn intercultural communication techniques, and practice social impact.