
AFS-USA: High School Abroad in South Africa
by: AFS-USA
Experience South Africa not as a tourist but as a member of its community with ten months of living with a host family and attending a local high school. The academic year in South Africa begins in January, so you will be part of two different academic sessions in South Africa. With 11 official languages spoken throughout the country, you will have the unique opportunity to learn a local dialect,...
Experience South Africa not as a tourist but as a member of its community with ten months of living with a host family and attending a local high school. The academic year in South Africa begins in January, so you will be part of two different academic sessions in South Africa. With 11 official languages spoken throughout the country, you will have the unique opportunity to learn a local dialect, though most schools are taught in English. Students live throughout South Africa, though most host families live in urban areas (85%). There is a vast array of communities in which you could be placed, given the great cultural diversity of the country. There is no 'typical' South African, though most place a high value on family. Families are generally warm and curious about visitors. The diver...
Program Highlights
Your host community will be a middle-class residential area situated in some of the world’s most famous bucket list destinations!
Spend time on gorgeous beaches, picnic in magnificent parks and gardens, hang out at colorful markets, and visit cultural and historical landmarks.
You will have the opportunity to sign up for a sport or after-school activity and have practice after classes. Schools offer the following sports: swimming, rugby, cricket, soccer, hockey, and more!
Get involved with humanitarian projects during your time in South Africa and learn from program mentors.
Join your new friends in South Africa by spending time dancing, playing music, attending festivals, and enjoying cultural events in your community!
Quick Details
- South Africa
- 7-12 Months
- Homestays
- English
Awards



Program Details
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
- South Africa
Types and Subjects
- Focus Areas
- Homestays
Availability
Years Offered: 2026
- 7-12 Months
Age Requirement
14-17
Guidelines
- English
Cost per week
Program Cost Includes
- Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
- Medical / Accident Insurance
- Travel Insurance
- Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Accommodation Options
- Home-stays
Qualifications & Experience
- English
Language Skills Required
- Some high school, no diploma
Accepted Education Levels
Application Procedures
- Letters of Reference
- In-Person Interview Required
- Physical Exam/Health Records
- Transcript
Program Reviews
This program has no reviews
Ready to Learn More?
Experience South Africa not as a tourist but as a member of its community with ten months of living with a host family and attending a local high school. The academic year in South Africa begins in January, so you will be part of two different academic sessions in South Africa. With 11 official languages spoken throughout the country, you will have the unique opportunity to learn a local dialect, though most schools are taught in English. Students live throughout South Africa, though most host families live in urban areas (85%). There is a vast array of communities in which you could be placed, given the great cultural diversity of the country. There is no 'typical' South African, though most place a high value on family. Families are generally warm and curious about visitors. The diver...

AFS-USA

AFS-USA
Ready to Learn More?
Experience South Africa not as a tourist but as a member of its community with ten months of living with a host family and attending a local high school. The academic year in South Africa begins in January, so you will be part of two different academic sessions in South Africa. With 11 official languages spoken throughout the country, you will have the unique opportunity to learn a local dialect, though most schools are taught in English. Students live throughout South Africa, though most host families live in urban areas (85%). There is a vast array of communities in which you could be placed, given the great cultural diversity of the country. There is no 'typical' South African, though most place a high value on family. Families are generally warm and curious about visitors. The diver...
Related Programs
Browse programs you might like
