18plus FAQ

The Global Competence Certificate is provided to 18plus participants who successfully complete all online modules of the 18-part, expert-designed program, as well as attend at least six hours of in-person reflection sessions. The program helps learners translate their program experiences into lifelong skills and tools for succeeding in an increasingly interculturally diverse world. The educational program is broken up into three sections: before you depart, while on your 18plus program, and when you return. Each section involves online modules, situation analysis, reflective writing, and interactive conversations with a trained facilitator and other 18plus participants. You will receive your certification upon completion of the training program, which you can highlight on your CV, resume and/or university applications. Read more about GCC here (www.sentionetwork.org/eduprograms)

In most cases, there is no age limit for 18plus programs. There are physical requirements for many of the Volunteer Abroad and Internship programs, such as an ability to hike 5 miles or kilometers, to swim in open water without assistance, and so on. Physical requirements differ for each program or destination and are generally clearly stated in the program details. To some participants, it might make a difference knowing that the average age of  18plus participants falls generally in the 18-25 range. As long as you’re at least 18, meet the program specifications and are able to handle the physical requirements (if any), we’re eager to welcome you!

As 18plus programs are for adults, they include a different level of support from AFS high school programs, while maintaining high standards of care. For example, with 18plus programs it’s very well possible that you are responsible for making your own travel arrangements

All listed dates are the actual dates for the start of your program. You should be in your host country and at your program site on the program start date. Keep this in mind when booking travel to particularly distant locations, as you may depart on one day and not arrive in the host country until one or two days later.

It depends on your program. If you are not met at the airport, you will be given instructions on when and where to meet program staff after you’ve arrived in the host country.

Where academic credit is possible, the 18plus program partners will assist you with the appropriate paperwork required for this process.

AFS has 70 years of experience in student exchange and intercultural learning. All of our 18plus programs are selected based on their adherence to high quality standards—standards that ensure that your experience is an exceptional learning opportunity in a safe and trusted environment, led by qualified staff and, in many cases, volunteers. These assurances have made AFS high school programs the gold standard of student exchange. As an 18plus participant, you can rely on an experience that meets or exceeds the expectations of today’s global learner.

In addition to the programs, all 18plus participants receive an added benefit of the Global Competence Certificate (GCC) program. This signature online and in-person course offers a blended learning approach to global competence and cultural adjustment and provides instruction before, during, and after your 18plus program. Upon successful completion, you’ll receive the Global Competence Certificate—a benefit that solidifies and validates your abroad experience. In other words, your experience will stand out on a college application or resume.