Program Details
| Program Length | Start | End | Program Cost | Age on Departure |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exchange Year | Mid August | Late June | US$8,000 | 15 - 18 |
Age Explanation: Age on Departure reflect both the years and month(s) of the age of the applicant at the start of the program. For example, if the age is listed as 16.1 the applicant should be 16 years and 1 month at departure.
Latvia Details :
Come to Latvia and you’ll find a nation of rolling meadows, lush forests, and welcoming people. A unique blend of Baltic and Slavic cultures, Latvia combines a rich past with a promising future. Riga, the 800-year old capital, is full of distinctive architecture as well as modern businesses in old art nouveau buildings. Latvia is the central country of the Baltic States, borders Russia and Belarus, and touches the east coast of the Baltic Sea. Situated at a trading crossroads, Latvia has long served as a bridge between Western Europe and Russia. In May 2004, Latvia proudly became a full member of the European Union. While declared a newly independent state in 1991, Latvia holds onto its old customs, such as strong bonds among family members. Urban families often like to spend weekends in summer homes, and you’ll be invited along as part of the family. You’ll also discover the rich home-cooked meals, many of which contain meat and potatoes. Enjoy a study abroad experience in Latvia and discover life in this vibrant culture.
Year & Semester :
School runs from September to May, and depending on your host family location, your schools (and required language and literature classes) may be predominantly Latvian-speaking or Russian-speaking. Other required subjects include the history of Latvia and current affairs, math, a foreign language, and physical education. Electives consist of a second foreign language, geography, computers, sciences, and music. School is the center of teenage student social life in Latvia, and you and your friends will participate in extracurricular activities such as swimming, dancing, basketball, track, music, crafts, or drama. Upon your arrival, you will participate in a four-day Orientation and Language Camp, which will help you develop basic Latvian or Russian language skills and prepare you for life in Latvia. You will also have the chance to take a variety of weekend outings, school trips to neighboring countries, and other optional excursions.
Summer Intensive Russian Language Study :
Learn the Russian language in Latvia! This unique and exciting AFS Program includes a month-long immersion in the Russian language (no previous language experience is needed). You’ll live with a Russian-speaking host family and explore Daugavpils, the second-largest city in Latvia, which is surrounded by forests, lakes, and the Daugava River. You’ll attend weekday morning classes at the Daugavpils Language Center, and you’ll take part in outdoor and cultural activities during the afternoon. You’ll also have the chance to explore the country through sightseeing tours to Latvian cities including Riga, the oldest medieval city still in existence!
