Experience the AYA Difference
Since 1981, Academic Year in America (AYA) has helped more than 35,000 international high school exchange students find a second home in the U.S. with families like yours. AYA is a boutique exchange program built on personal connections and hands-on support—offering a family-centered experience that makes every placement meaningful.
At AYA, every connection matters. When you host with us, you join a close-knit network of families, Local Coordinators, and our national team who support you every step of the way, so your hosting journey is rewarding, memorable, and truly life-changing.
Meet Our Inspiring Students
AYA students aren’t just visiting—they’re here to learn, share, and belong. Carefully selected for their maturity, motivation, and readiness, our students thrive academically and socially while becoming part of your family. They bring their culture, stories, and curiosity, while embracing yours—creating genuine friendships that often last a lifetime.
Why Host with AYA?
Hosting with Academic Year in America (AYA) means joining a community that values connection, care, and culture. Backed by the AIFS Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to global education since 1967, AYA combines decades of experience with personal support that feels like family.
Small Organization. Big Heart.
AYA is a boutique exchange program built on personal connection. Since 1981, we’ve created thousands of life-changing connections between exchange students and host families who want to make a difference.
Support that Feels like Family
We keep our connections close to our hearts. As an AYA host family, you’ll be welcomed into our close-knit community, supported by a caring Local Coordinator and our dedicated national team every step of the way. Beyond just logistics, we’re here to make sure every host and exchange student feel seen and valued throughout the experience.
Students Who Inspire
Our exchange students are bright, curious, and full of heart. They bring energy, perspective, and cultural richness to every American household they join — inspiring their host families and high school classmates through everyday exchanges that build lifelong understanding and friendship.
“We started hosting when our kids were in 3rd and 5th grade, ages 9 and 11. Hosting taught them to be open to other people and to look for common ground with people. They soon realized that most of the differences were small enough that friendships could grow.”
Who Are AYA Exchange Students?
AYA exchange students come from around the world to live with American host families and attend local high schools, all while sharing their cultures as ambassadors of their home countries. Our thorough application and vetting process ensures they are prepared to succeed in the U.S. and contribute positively to a host family’s life.
While every student brings unique personal and cultural experiences, they all meet the following criteria:
- Ages 15 – 18 years old, representing 30+ countries
- Strong academic records and English language proficiency
- Fully prepared with insurance and personal spending money
- Eager to participate as family members, classmates, and cultural ambassadors
“My American [host] family aren’t just people I live with. These people are a new family for me. A family for life.”
Ludwig, AYA exchange student
Stories from Our Community
Hear firsthand experiences of exchange students, host families, and other members of the AYA community.
Start Your Hosting Journey
Whether you’re interested in hosting a high school exchange student for a few weeks or a full academic year, AYA can help make your cultural exchange experience meaningful and rewarding.
With personalized support from your Local Coordinator and our dedicated national team, we’ll be by your side every step of the way.
Open your home, share your traditions, and help shape the next generation of global citizens.
Questions?
