Contact us : 022 827 36 00
Contact us : 022 827 36 00
The flexible academic program with the option to choose a region, a sport, or an academic focus! If you have surpassed the age for the Standard High School program or if you wish to stay in a specific region, choose a particular academic orientation, or pursue your favorite sport, dance, or music, then this program is for you!
Opt for the High School Plus program in the United States and immerse yourself in the American way of life for either one semester or one academic year. Experience a true "US High School" and turn your English language proficiency into a valuable asset for the future.
| Starting from... | |
| Academic Semester | $16,250 USD |
| Academic Year | $24,750 USD |
Download the complete rates for the High School Plus program by clicking on this link:
> Guaranteed choice of district, academic focus, or sports option.
> Greater availability of spots compared to the Standard High School program.
> Program accessible to students who have surpassed the age limit of 18 years and 6 months at the time of departure (age limit that applies to the Standard program).
> AILS ensures the smooth running of the Plus programs through its American partner with an on-site office, guaranteeing participants a high level of service quality.
> Applications are open even after the deadline for the Standard High School program.
Important:
> We invite you to schedule an individual appointment with a member of our staff who will assist you in choosing the school/region that offers your desired focus.
> By applying to the program as early as possible, you increase your chances of securing a placement in the school of your choice.
When we think of the United States, we imagine a vast country. But the United States is primarily a collection of 50 states that enjoy significant independence in terms of economy, society, education, and judiciary.
The United States is a blend of mountains, canyons, lakes, plains, majestic forests, and arid deserts. Like the landscapes, American culture is diverse as it is influenced by the diverse ethnic groups that have shaped this new world.
The United States is the epitome of a multicultural nation: since the early 19th century, over 75 million immigrants from around the world have settled there. Today, approximately 70% of the country's population is White, 13% is Hispanic, 12% is Black, 3% is Asian, and 1% is Native American.
All these communities coexist while retaining their distinctiveness. The concept of the salad bowl, which values complementarity, has gradually replaced the melting pot concept, which advocated for complete assimilation of immigrant populations into American lifestyles.
Regardless of their origins, most Americans place great importance on family life. Your host family will expect you to integrate as a full member of the household.
Throughout your stay, you will participate in the family's regular activities, such as visiting friends, going shopping, getting involved in local community life, and sharing household chores.
Young Americans attend a minimum of 12 years of schooling (Primary School + Secondary School), similar to our education system. You will attend a local high school.
In general, high school encompasses the final four years of secondary education:
Grade 9 (Freshman) - 11th grade (end of compulsory education)
Grade 10 (Sophomore) - 1st year of college
Grade 11 (Junior) - 2nd year of college
Grade 12 (Senior) - 3rd year of college
In many American schools, the range of subjects is enormous, catering to all interests: psychology, sociology, literature, pottery, drama, journalism, speech, media, architectural drawing, computer science, and of course, the more traditional subjects.
Don't worry! To help you choose at the beginning of the year, your family and the guidance counselor can provide guidance.
Some courses last for one semester, giving you the opportunity to switch subjects midway through the year.
The choices are just as important in sports, cultural activities, and social clubs: football, baseball, tennis, swimming, track and field, basketball, volleyball, charity club, student council, band, cheerleading, debate club, speech club, yearbook staff, and more. These opportunities are available within the school (availability varies depending on the size of the school)! It will be a unique chance for you to thrive in subjects and activities you may not be familiar with. It will also be the perfect opportunity to integrate into American life and get to know young people in your local community.
The day usually starts with a hearty breakfast. You might prepare some pancakes with maple syrup or have cereal with milk.
Once you're full, it's off to school, perhaps on the famous yellow school bus. Classes typically begin around 8 am. You'll have 5 to 7 subjects (US History and English are usually mandatory). Lunchtime is around 12:30 pm.
When classes end around 2:45 pm, it's time for extracurricular activities. Try to join as many activities or sports as possible; it's the best way to integrate!
After school, you can participate in family life or hang out with your school friends. Weekends are devoted to school sports competitions or family activities. It's also an opportunity to support your high school's teams. Life in the United States is very different from ours, and each day will bring many fun details to discover.
The most important thing for you is to arrive there with an open mind, without prejudices... It's worth it!
1. Gather Information:
We are available to discuss your plans and provide you with all the necessary information for your High School program.
2. Candidate Selection:
Before your enrollment, we will verify with you if you meet all the admission requirements for the High School program. We will also assess your English level to ensure it meets the admission criteria.
3. Registration:
Ready to enroll? Complete the registration form or print it out and send it to us by email or mail along with a deposit of 2,000 CHF. We will contact you to confirm your registration.
4. AILS File:
Once we receive your registration, you will be granted access to complete your online file, including personal information, academic records, medical documents, etc. Our High School department will review and validate your file once it is complete.
5. Acceptance:
From the date we receive your complete file, the average time for acceptance is two weeks. The search for your host family will then be initiated.
It may take some time before your placement date is confirmed, which could be close to your departure date. However, there is no need to worry as this is the normal procedure in such situations. Our counselors diligently follow up on your file and communicate information as it becomes available.
* The school: You will be placed in a local educational institution and follow the same secondary education program as local students.
6. Approaching Departure:
We will assist you in preparing your documentation, guide you through the visa application process, and arrange for medical insurance if needed. You will receive your student pack (orientation manual, insurance details, travel documents, AILS bag, packing list, etc.).
7. Your Year:
Throughout your stay, your local coordinator and our AILS counselors will be available to answer any questions you may have.
Depending on the country, coordinators organize occasional activities (BBQ, pizza nights, swim parties, excursions, etc.) to allow participants to meet each other.
Become an "AILS AMBASSADOR": Every year, willing students share their international experience with the world via Facebook, Twitter, or email. If you are interested in becoming one of them, let us know!
8. On-Site Support:
Since its establishment over 25 years ago, AILS has emphasized the quality of its programs, and quality includes support for students before and during their stay!
When you participate in a High School program, you will be assigned a local supervisor who will be there to address any questions, assist you in resolving any concerns or issues you may encounter. They will be your primary point of contact during your stay.
An emergency hotline provided by the host organization is also available 24/7, seven days a week.
AILS remains at your disposal, as well as that of your parents, throughout your entire stay!
9. Afterward:
Upon your return, we will get in touch with you to discuss your experience. Each year, we invite our students to share their experience during our information and preparation meetings and at the professional fairs we attend. These gatherings are also an opportunity to have a pleasant time and share your adventure with future American students!
AILS also offers university programs. Feel free to contact us or request our brochure on "Studying Abroad at Universities."
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