Programme details
| Programme length | Start | End | Price | Age on departure |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AFS year programme (academic year) | August 2011 | June 2012 | $12,800 | 15.8 - 18.8 |
Finland was once ruled by Sweden, later by Russia and Finnish culture, especially its food, absorbed the influences of both countries. Yet today Finland is in most ways unique. Its language is challenging, its architecture is distinctive, and the government discourages immigration. At the same time, although Finns are personally reserved, they are eager to share their heritage with visitors, and they stage hundreds of arts festivals. They are also technologically savvy.
Ecologically, the World Economic Forum ranked Finland first in environmental health among 142 nations.
Family life
Family life is important, even though family structures are diverse. There is lots of interaction within Finnish families. It is normal for both parents to work, and it is common for everybody to share the daily chores. Teenagers are normally brought up to be independent about making decisions for themselves and to be responsible for their actions. You will probably have a weekday curfew and a later one on weekends, and the family will expect you to keep them informed of your whereabouts and activities.
School life
The education system in Finland is composed of comprehensive schools, upper secondary schools, vocational and professional education institutions and universities. Upper secondary school is academically oriented and about 50% of the age group attends it. Most AFS students are placed in upper secondary school.
Most subjects are compulsory, but there are also elective courses that are worth looking into. You should have at least 25 hours of school per week. Subjects offered are Finnish and Swedish, foreign languages English, German, French and Russian (some schools also offer Latin, Spanish and Italian) – mathematics and physics (basic and advanced), chemistry, biology, psychology, history, physical education and student counselling.
School begins in mid-August and ends in the beginning of June at the latest. In addition to a summer holiday (from June to mid-August), students have Christmas, winter and Easter holidays. Some schools also have an autumn break. Schools do not require uniforms. Some schools offer photography, computer sciences, drama, sports and language clubs, which may take up some of your time.
AFS Finland does not accept smokers or vegetarians.
