Short Term Inbound Program

What is it all about? Similar to the academic year or semester programs, short term homestays give teens from other countries the chance to share their culture while experiencing a bit of America. Though the programs are shorter, long lasting bonds are often formed.

How does it work? Students travel from their home countries to one geographic area in America in small groups of 10-15 and stay for 2-4 weeks. Host families provide room, board and a glimpse at American family life. A FLAG coordinator in the area arranges one or two activities per week for the students. During the school year, students may visit a local high school, but are not enrolled. All students arrive with spending money, round trip airplane tickets, and full medical insurance.

Selection

Why do these kids want to come to the U.S.? Many students come for the same reasons as longer term exchange students: to learn about another culture, to share their culture, to gain maturity and world knowledge, as well as to increase English ability. A short term homestay gives students, and host families, the chance to test the waters of exchange without the fears of homesickness. Students often return for an academic year or semester.

How are the kids selected to come? All FLAG students are personally interviewed and screened by international partners according to FLAG's pre-established selection criteria. They evaluate the students' personality, maturity level, English skills, social references, and academic background when reviewing each application. Then, the complete portfolio of each student is sent to FLAG's Central Office to be shared with the group’s coordinator for matching with the right host family.