Orientations Overview

In-person/virtual orientations are an integral part of the AFS Student Learning Journey and AFS has a standard cycle of orientations that are designed to prepare and support you throughout your experience. The AFS Orientation Framework lays out the goals of all AFS Orientations in both the home and host country. All AFS Orientations will focus on the following aspects of your experience:

• AFS and You
• Personal Safety and Well-being
• Cultural Adjustment and Coping
• Culture Learning
• Personal Goals and Expectations
• Logistics

AFS will provide you with materials and exercises, which will help you prepare for and get the most out of your time abroad. Orientations give you the opportunity to share the challenges and successes you have during your experience.

Be on the lookout for related email invitations and To-Dos on your AFS Dashboard.

Home Country Orientations

Online Pre-Departure Orientation Modules

Your learning journey with AFS officially begins by completing a mandatory, Online Pre-Departure Orientation (PDO). Think of your Online PDO as AFS 101, a prerequisite course for all AFS participants before they depart the US. It covers the history and mission of AFS, AFS rules and expectations, adjusting to life abroad, and safety and support while on program.

Be on the lookout for and email with login information for the Online Pre-Departure Orientation. 

Local/Regional Pre-Departure Orientation

When: 4-8 weeks before your departure

Where: Your home community or a regional webinar

Who: Students and parents; delivered by local AFS volunteers

The Pre-Departure Orientation (PDO) addresses general AFS policies and focuses on intercultural learning and developing adaptation skills. The PDO does not focus on host country-specific or program-specific content. AFS orientations bring together participants who are going to a variety of host countries; you may find that you are the only person at your PDO that is headed to your host country! You may have an opportunity to meet AFS Alumni at the PDO and ask questions about their experience. Parents/guardians are welcomed and strongly encouraged to attend the PDO to meet local volunteers, and other parents of students going abroad and to broaden their intercultural skills and understanding of the experience you are about to embark on, so they are better prepared to support you along the way.

Host Country Orientations

Every AFS partner runs orientations a little differently. The format and length of orientations delivered in the host country will vary. The titles for the orientations may also differ depending on the host country. Generally, orientations are in your local community, or held virtually, and all are run by AFS staff and/or volunteers. Be sure to consult your host country Welcome booklet available in your Dashboard and ask AFS volunteers in your host country for details regarding orientations in your host country. The following is a general rundown of what you can expect.

Arrival Orientation

When: Upon arrival in your host country or shortly thereafter

Most countries have an Arrival or “Welcome” Orientation immediately upon arrival. At this orientation, you should receive additional information on your host country/culture and your AFS ID card. You will also have a chance to discuss any issues or questions you may have regarding the host culture, your host family, local volunteers, school, and/or community service assignment.

Summer program: Arrival orientations vary greatly in length and format, depending on the type and location of the program.

Post-Arrival Orientation

When: 2-6 weeks after arrival

This orientation is designed to follow up with you after you have had a few weeks of experience in your host country. At this time, you may have specific questions or concerns based on your experience. Please note that not all countries conduct Post-Arrival Orientations.

Mid-Stay Orientation

When: At the midpoint of your exchange

The orientation is the chance for you to look back on the first half of your exchange, assess your progress as an exchange student and set goals for the last half. Please note that not all countries conduct Mid-Stay Orientations.

End-of-Stay Orientation

When: About 2-6 weeks before the end of your exchange

This orientation is an opportunity for you to turn your attention to how to make the most of your remaining time on program as well as preparing to leave your host country and return to the U.S.