Study Abroad Programs in Stellenbosch, South Africa

When I decided I wanted to go abroad, I was nervous about a lot of things. First off, I was scared that when I went abroad I would have to settle for a location I did not want to be in because I needed my credits to transfer over. Luckily AIFS had a program in a wonderful city with a bunch of classes that would transfer back to my home university super well. When I chose this program, I was overjoyed but nervous about living in a homestay. When I got there I was happily surprised to find that my host family was amazing and provided me with an experience I would not have been able to have if I had been in a dorm/apt. The people that I met in the program were some of the coolest people I have ever known and am happy to call them my friends to this day. If you are looking for a great program in Paris where you have the freedom to meet new people, travel, and find yourself in a new place, I would 100% recommend this to you!

My semester abroad in Granada, Spain was absolutely unforgettable. I decided to stay with a host family and I lived in their home with another student in the same program. Living with a roommate, we became really close friends. My host family was so kind and welcoming, they included us in everything they did. I learned so much Spanish culture and tradition from spending time with the family. The school was called Center of Modern Languages and I had a mixture of Spanish and Business classes. I loved speaking Spanish in class and getting to know other students. AIFS provided a level placement test at the beginning of the semester so that everyone found courses that were appropriate for their knowledge of Spanish. The classes were very fun and I enjoyed going to class. The AIFS program excursions were some of the best experiences/trips that I went on. I was blown away by the Morocco trip as well as the Seville/Córdoba/Gibraltar weekend. The trips were well planned, affordable, and allowed for free time to explore with friends. I made so many connections with locals, got to experience once in a lifetime activities like riding camels next to the ocean, and tried amazing foods. The program application process was hassle-free and the program advisors in Granada are so helpful. I would often visit their office and just chat with them or ask their advice on where to visit on the weekend. They organized cooking classes, art classes, sporting events, and cultural activities like a flamenco show. Granada is such a wonderful city. It is very walkable and the people are very friendly. There are endless tapas bars in the city where you get free food with each drink purchase. I made friends with lots of locals and other students from across the US. I attended exchange club meetings where you get drinks and tapas, and you chat in whatever language you are trying to learn with people from around the world. AIFS did a wonderful job providing opportunities for all of the students in the program to get to know each other. I made a close-knit group of friends and we spent so much time together. I am so thankful for having met them thanks to AIFS. We even visited each other once we arrived back in the US! I would highly recommend this program to anyone who wants to experience Spain on a more personal scale compared to bigger cities. I think Granada is the most beautiful city, and the Alhambra is a must-see!

Such an amazing experience South Africa is the most magical place I have ever been! Would have liked to have had set trips or events to meet the other USAC students. As well as the group flight I was the only one who attended, I would have like to have seen more student or have been notified. Overall a truly life changing experience I will never forget.

My time I spent in Stellenbosch and in South Africa at large, was unlike any study abroad experience that I have heard of in my time in college. The African safari and game drives, the beautiful landscapes of vast mountain ranges, long strands, which are all complemented by the vibrant culture, friendly strangers, and the best braai the world has to offer. I loved my time South Africa and I hope to visit Stellenbosch some day again.

Berlin is a really wonderful and historic city to live in. My German is basically nonexistent and I still felt like I was able to get around fine. The AIFs staff are very supportive, and the organized actives were well structured and thought out. If you weren’t interested in some or all of the activities, you didn’t have to participate and there was plenty of time to do your own thing around Berlin or travel throughout Europe. I didn’t particularly enjoy my academic experience at Humboldt, there were a few good classes but also a few really awful ones. So, if I could do it again I would probably do the AIFS program with Freie Universität academic program.

Going to South Africa through the AIFS program was the best decision I could of made. I created the best bonds with people and unforgettable memories. I will definitely be visiting South Africa again!

My colleague and I have had the pleasure of accompanying 21 amazing humans on a 3 month journey that will most certainly change them for the rest of their lives. Thank you to AIFS for sharing Rome with us and attending to every detail that made this an experience that will live with us eternally. The AIFS Rome center staff were excellent in providing impactful excursions, extra-curricular courses, and ensuring that all of us were well informed and provided for in every part of our journey.

I had a lovely time here, although it was not without flaws. The amenities were not great especially considering how much we paid to be here. The company guilt tripped and body shamed us. But I made innumerable new friends and had experiences that I will cherish forever.

Very nice experience, learned a lot. People I’ve met here are now friends I will still be in contact with. The internship was where I learned new skills and networked with people within the fashion industry and got inspired by being here abroad

I studied abroad in Stellenbosch South Africa Spring 2022. Stellenbosch has a college town feel with plenty to do and Cape Town is only 45 minutes away (and easy to get to). I met many friends who were either international students or South Africans students since the University does a great job of welcoming International Students. We spent our time wine tasting, exploring the region, and learning about South Africa. Hestea, the program director, is the woman I want to be when I grow up. She is an amazing, loving, wise human being who will help you along the way during your time abroad. She also gives the best advice. Studying abroad in Stellies contained the highest highs and the lowest lows of my life. This time shaped me into the human I am today, and I could not recommend it more.

AIFS Stellenbosch was the best experience of my life! Hestea, the program manager, was amazing and really made the process easy! I would recommend it to everyone. The school was amazing, great class options, the town of Stellenbosch is full of students with great food, hiking, wine farms, and night life. I also was able to travel more of South Africa on the free Garden Route AIFS provided and travel throughout Namibia and Mozambique after my classes ended!

Unbeknownst to me at the time, The path toward embracing the fullness of life began for me the very moment I eagerly clicked the "Apply Now" button on the American Institute for Foreign Exchange website. In that decisive moment, I embarked on what would undoubtedly become one of the most remarkable journeys of my life: the opportunity to study abroad in Stellenbosch, South Africa. This remarkable decision ignited a spark within me, filled with anticipation, curiosity, and a thirst for new experiences. It marked the beginning of an adventure that would open doors to personal growth, cultural immersion, and the discovery of a world far beyond my own. With each passing day, I grew more excited about the possibilities that awaited me in this enchanting land. Despite feeling out of my depth, I mustered the courage to embrace the challenge of Studying Abroad and embracing the richness of South African culture, academic pursuits, and the connections I would forge with fellow students from around the globe. Little did I know at the time that this act of courage would become the foundation for everything I would come to know, that it would become a feeling that deeply comforted me and that it would teach me the most fundamental lesson anyone can ever learn: that if we go into new experiences in life with as much excitement and enthusiasm as we can figure out, in the end, it is the only way we know that we have led a full life. It is through embracing the unknown with a sense of curiosity and eagerness that we can truly appreciate the depth and richness of our journey.This lesson marked the beginning of my journey towards wisdom. Little did I realize at that pivotal moment that my act of courage in taking that leap was the catalyst for an extraordinary transformation of consciousness. It marked the dawning of a profound renaissance within me—a renaissance that would awaken my deepest love, appreciation, and exhilaration for life itself, for thrilling adventures, and for the profound power of community. In essence, it was the inception of my personal quest to cultivate a life that truly embodies purpose, meaning, and fulfillment. With each passing day, as I ventured into uncharted territories, I felt a renewed zest for life coursing through my veins. The boundaries of my comfort zone rapidly expanded, allowing me to embrace novel experiences and welcome the unknown with open arms. As I delved into new cultures, engaged with diverse perspectives, and immersed myself in the vibrant tapestry of human connections, I felt a profound sense of interconnectedness and belonging. The world became my classroom, and every encounter, every shared moment, became a valuable lesson in empathy, compassion, and the beauty of our shared humanity. Through the challenges and triumphs, the laughter and tears of joy, I came to realize that life is not merely a series of passive moments, but an ever-evolving canvas waiting to be painted with our unique passions and purpose. This profound awakening ignited a fire within me, propelling me to seize every opportunity for growth, to savor each step of the journey, and to forge meaningful connections that would transcend time and distance. As I reflect upon that transformative decision, I am filled with an immense gratitude for the path I have chosen. It was the starting point of a journey that has taught me to embrace the full spectrum of human experience, to seek beauty in the ordinary, and to continuously seek ways to contribute to the world around me. It is a journey that has gifted me with invaluable memories, enduring friendships, and an unwavering commitment to live each day with passion, purpose, and a profound dedication to the cultivation of an extraordinary life. That simple act of courage, which ignited my journey in South Africa, has unfolded into an epic narrative of personal growth, self-discovery, and a bold pursuit of a life well-lived. It serves as a testament to the boundless potential that resides within each of us, waiting to be unleashed. It is a powerful reminder that every single moment holds the promise of transformative possibilities if we have the audacity to embrace them wholeheartedly. During my transformative time in South Africa, I was blessed with the presence of an extraordinary mentor, Hestea, a woman whom I deeply admire and look up to. Her impact on my life has been profound, shaping the very core of my being. Through her guidance, wisdom, and genuine care, she empowered me to reframe the way I inquire about the world and to immerse myself fully in its breathtaking beauty. Under Hestea's nurturing guidance, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery and introspection. She taught me to ask probing questions, to challenge preconceived notions, and to embrace the complexities of life. Through her mentorship, I learned to approach the world with a curious mind, eager to explore its hidden depths and uncover its manifold wonders, and to live where my feet were. Hestea's influence went beyond intellectual growth; she fostered in me a deep appreciation for the power of connection and community. Through her example, I witnessed firsthand the transformative power of genuine relationships and the strength that can be found in coming together with others. She encouraged me to seek out meaningful connections, to engage with diverse perspectives, and to nurture the bonds that transcend geographical boundaries. In the rich tapestry of my time in South Africa, Hestea's mentorship remains a guiding light—a constant reminder of the profound impact that one person can have on another's life. Her support, encouragement, and unwavering belief in my potential propelled me forward on my quest for personal growth and fulfillment. As I reflect upon the synergy between that initial act of courage and the transformative mentorship I received, I am reminded of the incredible capacity within each of us to evolve, to surpass our own expectations, and to lead lives that are imbued with purpose and meaning. It is a testament to the transformative power of connection, guidance, and the relentless pursuit of personal and intellectual growth. Every day, I am reminded of the incredible insights and profound conversations we shared. There was a time that she, my friends, my mother, aunt, and I were having brunch at a local restaurant that we all adored. It was a local restaurant called Hygge Hygge, which refers to the Danish concept of coziness, which makes a person feel content and comfortable. Hygge Hygee has been described as everything from the ‘art of intimacy’ to the ‘coziness of the soul’ and the ‘pursuit of everyday pleasures.’ Upon entering the restaurant, one would be greeted with a plethora of lush green plants and foliage that added to the establishment's natural ambiance. The menu was comprised of an array of exquisitely presented dishes, I was always drawn to the ‘Hygee Farmers Breakfast’ that was described as “For when you want the old faithful eggs, bacon and roasted tomatoes, on toast combo, and the only decision you have to make is poached, scrambled, or fried.” However, to my surprise, I was faced with an additional decision-the unexpected dilemma of choosing between lightly scrambled, medium, or well-done eggs. (This was one of the hardest decisions I had faced in my time in South Africa, and this still remains true. And I stand by this statement, even though it sounds a bit egg-centric!) Moreover, one could not help but notice the eye-catching Hygge plan, painted on wood and mounted on the wall, as a gentle reminder to enjoy life's simple pleasures, on it was painted: Be Curious. Go Outside. Get to Bed on Time. Hydrate. Breathe from the diaphragm. Eat Happy. Get a routine baggy enough to live in. Be kind. Accept that not everyone will like you. Appreciate those who do. Don’t be defined. Allow mistakes. Want what you already have. Learn to say no to things that get in the way of life. And to say yes to the things that help you live. While we settled in, and waited for what we considered the world's finest Chai teas, we engaged in a conversation about the Hygge plan on the wall. We shared our thoughts on which phrase from the plan resonated with us the most, which one we felt least connected to, and which phrase we aspired to work on, all while enjoying each other's company with lots of laughter. Then Hestea, having wiped away her tears from all the laughter, directed her gaze towards us, smiled, and began to speak. She said "Bokkies (which means "little doe" in Afrikaans) You must Demand out of Life! The underlying message she intended to impart through that statement, which I would later comprehend, was the imperative notion that in life you cannot sit and wait, you cannot sit and ask, you cannot sit and beg, you must demand out of it, out of life what you want and only then can you live a lekker life, a full life. Demanding out of life what you want out of it, is an attitude towards life and not a deficit of the heart or mind. She said, "In life, the three most important questions you can ask yourself are: What you want to do, where you want to go, and who you are going with." She said "The order of these three questions will shape the life you live.” Over the span of several months, my comprehension deepened and I gradually gained a complete understanding of the essence of those three questions and their transformative power to shape the course of one's life. If you always start with who is going with you, you will never leave and you won't go far because you are not setting the pace, you are only prolonging the time. When you start with where you want to go, you have constructed a dream, and seldom do those who are always 10 steps ahead feel the grass underneath their feet. Don't be a dreamer, be a visionary. And If you begin with what you want to do, you must have the courage to trust life, and you must want what you already have. She then went on to say to us, “But remember the most important step you take is the next one, and we are all going to die, so you might as well live a fantastic life.” She then took a napkin from the table and a pen and began writing. She slowly marked our ages on the timeline, and then inquired about the age we would like to live till, noting it on the napkin. She also marked her own age on the timeline. She looked up at us and said “Today seems like your whole life, and it's not. It is a moment, but the decisions you make about how you live it, those moments will shape your whole life. And the challenge of being young, of being human, is striking a balance between these two ways of living.” she went on to say “At least two of those questions you ask yourself will always be in tension with the other. She said, “So as you come to know yourself and the world, find alignment and balance in being, give yourself grace, romanticize life, and Bookies, grow towards the light.” So with her vibrant, abundant style of humor, and larger-than-life personality, she followed that up with “and most importantly live well!” The sudden remark prompted an explosive burst of laughter, and she continued to share many other wonderful stories that left us feeling euphoric- euphoric in the warm embrace of South Africa, the lives we had built there, and the love we all shared for her. Together, these experiences have forged a profound narrative of growth, self-discovery, and the steadfast determination to cultivate a life that honors my true potential. They have taught me that the pursuit of a life well-lived is not a solitary journey but one that is enriched by the guidance, wisdom, and support of extraordinary mentors like Hestea, and shared community with others from all walks of life. While I retained and internalized her words, it wasn't until several months later when their true significance resonated deep within me. Essentially, her message conveyed that the three questions we often ask ourselves were condensed into one fundamental query - "Who am I?" - and, distilled even further not just who we were currently, but who we were becoming and who or what was a part of that transformation. More importantly, it emphasized our engagement with the world and life as a whole. In essence, the confluence of that initial act of courage and the transformative mentorship I received in South Africa has shaped the trajectory of my life, infusing it with purpose, authenticity, and an unwavering commitment to seize every moment as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. It is a testament to the extraordinary potential that resides within each of us, awaiting the moment when we dare to take that first courageous step toward our truest selves. So in that way, To the reader of this review, I encourage you to embrace a courageous leap and embark on one of the most magnificent journeys you will ever experience. Trust life, excavate through the background noise of everyday life, and heed the inner calling that beckons you to embark on a transformative adventure to Stellenbosch, South Africa. Moreover when you do, allow this moment in your life, this moment in time- albeit one semester or a year, to continue to inspire in you the desire to ask questions, to continue to critique and challenge the world around you, to remain curious, and to continue to form yourself and the spaces around you and orient them towards the light, towards greater love, joy, empathy, and peace. I have learned that to know oneself is to be at peace with who you are, where you are, on the way to where you are going. It is an alignment with existence and all that is, as it is. It is an affirmation of life through gratitude and beingness with all things around you, and that surround you. As I move forward, I carry within me the rich tapestry of my experiences in South Africa—memories of cherished coffee dates and heartfelt dinners with Hestea, countless hours spent traversing the mesmerizing coastline, and drawing lines on the comet with dear friends who remain the greatest loves of my heart. With an overflowing heart filled with gratitude and boundless joy in, and towards the world, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to those who made this transformative journey possible—the American Institute for Foreign Exchange, my South African mother Hestea, and all the remarkable individuals who crossed my path along the way. I am immensely grateful to proclaim that my time in South Africa was a testament to a life well-lived, brimming with profound friendships and unforgettable moments. Here's to you, the reader of this review—cheers! May you revel in the exhilaration of freedom and embrace the boundless possibilities that await you in Stellenbosch, South Africa. Cheers! to the way you will feel in freedom.

I definitely had a really exciting and wonderful trip. There were a few aspects like traveling and staying at more cities besides just Salzburg would have been a lot more fun. But the tours and field trips were absolutely incredible and the people who showed us around were amazing! Loved to see the history and beauty all over

From arrival to departure, AIFS made my study abroad experience a 11/10. Great staff through and through allowed for a complete cultural assimilation in the time I spent there. It was the experience of a lifetime that I would recommend to everyone.

I love to travel and I am a complete adventure junkie. I loved every bit of my study abroad experience! I got to experience the culture as well as wildlife of South Africa. I would go back in a minute! It was so fun, even the classes!

AIFS was definitely the right choice for me and I think it will be for anyone else seriously considering study abroad. From the moment I signed up for emails (before applying) to now (over a year out from leaving Germany), I have felt so supported and have had a lovely experience. The included trips and activities were definitely my favorite parts (the street art tour and cooking class especially!) and I’m still in contact with our Resident Director, Nele :)

One of the best parts of this program was our onsite program director, Hestea. She is a Stellenbosch local and she poured her heart into giving all of us the richest experience possible. She made it easy to fall in love with South Africa by taking us on unique excursions and explaining the value of it all. Stellenbosch is a great little town for college students. There's always something happening and it's super easy to navigate your way around (walking or cycling!). As far as academic life abroad, there are plenty of options to choose from and it was an amazing opportunity to be in classes with students from all over the world. I looked forward to working on group projects and discussing global issues with my international peers. My time abroad being surrounded by perspectives from around the world is something I'm still experiencing growth from over a year later. South Africa is beautiful, and AIFS has done a wonderful job at putting together a program that showcases as much as possible in the short time abroad.

I would absolutely recommend this program or any AIFS program to anyone looking to study abroad. This program gave me the once in a lifetime chance to travel to a beautiful country and immerse myself in a culture that I would not have been able to if I did not study abroad. I so appreciated the fact that AIFS is an inclusive program, meaning that your meal plan, housing, travel insurance, excursions, etc. are included in the cost of tuition. I also found the flight package they offered unbeatable. My favorite excursion I went on during this program was completing the world's highest bridge bungee jump! Through my photograph course provided, I was able to learn how to take professional grade photos of all the wildlife I saw, including a family of elephants. I highly recommend this January term program to anyone looking to go somewhere amazing and adventurous.

As a student with a STEM major, I was only able to do a summer study abroad program, and it was not long enough. The AIFS Public Health Program in Stellenbosch, South Africa was applicable to my field of study, as well as during the ideal time of year and within the continent of my choice. This program was truly the perfect option for the opportunity of a lifetime. During my stay, I was able to live in the dorms with other students from all over the US and the rest of the world, and was even lucky enough to room with a South Africa, who knew all of the local places to go and see, and all of the activities to do. The first of two classes I was able to take were an introduction to the political history of the country, which was taught in the most engaging, and memorable method of instruction I've experienced in my college career. The second, which related to my career, was the public health program, where I was able to learn about the local health care system and health problems that plague the country in a personal and eye-opening manner. Throughout this time, classes were balanced by experiencing the beautiful country, nearby cities, culture, and tasting all of the amazing food that South Africa had to offer, all with the best company a person could ask for. As a whole, the organization of courses and excursions that AIFS offered for this program made my study abroad the best I could have possibly asked for. It's the best thing I've done for my studies and for myself, and I wish only that it could've lasted longer.

It was the best thing that I have ever done for myself. It gave me a confidence that I never knew that I had and showed to myself that I was capable of doing things that other people are too afraid to do. I was 19 and moved from everything that I was comfortable with to a foreign and generally unsafe African country. When people normally go abroad during university, they go somewhere easy, such as London or major cities in Europe. For the most part, everyone would speak English, public transport is good, you can walk safely alone at night, and meet people doing exactly what you are doing. I went to South Africa, where everyone told you to be careful, even during the day time. Not alone was there no good public transport anywhere, but the few students I met that used it, never did so alone and some of them even got robbed. I even had my phone stolen within the first few weeks of being there. I was throw into a world of uncertainty, danger, racism, and poverty; the complete opposite of anything that I had ever experienced. And I loved every second of it. I met so many people that I would have never met before, it opened my eyes to what the real world is like. This experience showed me how privileged I was to be living the life that I was. I saw racism first hand and was able to combat it directly. I partied too much. I worked with organizations to help spread awareness about the problem of HIV & AIDS in South Africa. I fell in love. I did so many things that not only I thought I would never do, but things that I would have been too afraid to do before. It wasn't easy whatsoever to make the choice and actually follow through with it. And the first few days I had the ever so classic, "What the hell did I just get myself into?" moment, every night while laying in bed. Please excuse my language, but holy shit, I would never even think about doing anything differently. I could go on for hours about this, but to put it shortly; I feel bad for everyone who hasn't had the opportunity to experience something like this or is too afraid to pull the trigger and do it, because you should.