Who is eligible for this programme?
All students aged between 15 and 17 are eligible to apply for this programme. If you are currently in Form 3, 4 or 5, we will consider your application if we receive the form before the closing date. You do not need to be the best academically as we are looking for people who are able to adapt, are open and willing to share their culture as well as learn a new one.


Why is the cost so high?
Costs paid to the Host Country and AFS International are in US Dollars.
The programme fees cover:- 
1) Return Flight including departure tax
2) International Insurance for the whole programme duration
3) Pre-Departure Camp & Post Return Camp in Malaysia
4) Arrival Camp, Delayed Orientation, End of Stay Camp & other activities in Host Country
5) Any travel cost incurred from airport to host-family. From Host-family to any camp sites
6) 24 hour Emergency Support while in Host Country
7) Medical Coverage
8) Schooling
9) Screening of Host-Families
10) Administrative Cost & International Communication Cost


Are there scholarships available? How can I apply?
Yes, there are scholarships available. Please go to our scholarships section to find out what scholarships there are and how to apply for them.

What will happen if I am selected to go on AFS and also selected to go to the National Service?
You need to inform AFS immediately, we will then send a letter of appeal to the Defence Ministry. So far exemptions have been granted but you would still need to go for National Service Training after your return. AFS is not a means for you to skip your National Service.


If I go on the Intensive 2 month programme in December, I will then miss 1 month of school. Will that affect my school attendance?
No. Inform your school that you will be participating in this programme.
AFS will send an official letter to your school. AFS will also send a letter to the Ministry of Education (MOE), therefore you will be excused from school during the time stated.


If I go on the year programme, will I miss my chance when I’m offered to go to Lower Six / University or of getting a Government Scholarship?
If you want to go to Lower Six, tell your parents once they receive the offer letter to forward a copy to AFS. We will send a request letter to school/ MOE to defer your place for the following year.
Only apply for University/ College the following year, upon your return.
If you are offered government scholarships, tell your parents to inform AFS. We will try to assist by giving our letter to defer your scholarship to the following year. Universities and Colleges are not under the administration of the MOE. Therefore, our assistance is limited. We strongly encourage students to complete their AFS year and not come home halfway through. This is not a good reflection on you and AFS in Malaysia. Each country is given a quota, and if a student drops out at one point during the programme, that may mean that we will lose that place the following year. Also think of other students that would have appreciated the AFS experience but were not selected.
Before you apply, think hard of these consequences.


How does AFS select host families?
Interested host-families will apply to AFS in order to host. Once we receive the application forms, our volunteers will make an appointment to interview the host-families in their homes. Families will be screened according to our criteria. Only families that satisfy our criteria will be approved to host. Host-family placements are done by the host-country.


How can I be sure my child is safe with a stranger?
All selected host-families have been screened. Host-families will be matched with students based on their compatibility. Host-families will be advised and given orientation on becoming a host. They need to care for the hosted student like their own child. Local Chapters in their area will monitor their progress, development and safety. Each student will be assigned to a liaison person/counsellor for them to confide in.


When can I apply? Are there any extensions ?
You may apply to go on exchange from January till April each year. If you have missed the deadline, you would have to wait for your chance the following year. No late applications would be accepted as the interviews are conducted during the month of June / July.


Can I go on AFS and study at the same time?
AFS is an intercultural exchange programme and not a study programme. You would be able to gain knowledge such as intercultural skills, communication skills and learn to be more independent from going on this program. However, we cannot guarantee that you would be able to complete your A-Levels or STPM equivalent when you go on this program. Most of our returnees return to Malaysia to do their A-Levels or Form 6 a year later. If your objective is to explore the world and expand your horizons, then this is the right programme for you.


I have submitted my form but have not received a reply. What should I do?
If you have submitted your form, you should be called up for an interview latest by July. After the interview, you would be notified if you are successful or otherwise. If you have not received any form of reply, chances are your application is under consideration (KIV). Please do contact the National Office if you need further clarification.


I am currently studying in College / University / Form 6. Can I apply?
Unfortunately, the answer is no. The programme is only open to Form 3 - Form 5 students. If you are currently doing your Form 6 and you are under 18, you may try to apply for the Intensive Programme.