AIFS Abroad

AIFS Abroad

Why choose AIFS Abroad?

AIFS Abroad is a leading provider of study abroad programs. Since 1964, more than 1.8 million students have traveled abroad with AIFS. Comprehensive program fees make it convenient for students to study abroad and intern abroad to experience all that the world has to offer.

With over 60 years of experience, AIFS Abroad has the resources and experience to provide what students want and need in a study or internship abroad program combined with the institutional strength to safeguard their welfare around the globe. Unlike many other study or internship abroad programs or independent study options, AIFS Abroad program fees are guaranteed in U.S. dollars.

AIFS Abroad offers a wide range of unique programs in Asia, Australia, Europe, South Africa and the Americas. AIFS Abroad campuses typically offer courses in English and/or in foreign languages from beginner to advanced levels, so you don’t even need to know a foreign language to have the opportunity to go abroad.

Scholarships

AIFS Logo

AIFS Abroad Scholarships & Grants

We believe a study abroad experience is an essential component of well-rounded university education and we are committed to providing financial assistance to as many students as possible in support of their goal to study abroad. AIFS also offers internship and study abroad + internship blended programs to support the development of personal and professional skills.

Over 50% of students enrolled in an AIFS program are eligible for grants up to $2,500 for a semester or $1,500 for a summer, winter (J-term), or internship program.

Value
$500 - $10,000

Diversity & Inclusion 💙

At AIFS Abroad, we support all participants in their study or internship abroad journey — no matter their gender, race, religion, age, physical ability, or sexual orientation. Everyone’s identity is shaped by many different factors, and for some, faith, spirituality, and religion play an important role in choosing where to go.

We encourage you to think about what matters most to you as you explore your program options.
At AIFS Abroad, we’re here to support you throughout your study or intern abroad experience. We encourage you to connect with the culture around you—both where you’re from and where you’re going.

Each person brings their own background and perspective, and that matters when choosing a program and a destination. Taking time to reflect on your identity and learning about the experiences of others is a meaningful part of going abroad.

Everyone’s journey is different, and where you go can shape how included and comfortable you feel. As you explore your options, we hope the information below helps you find the program and location that feel right for you.
Everyone’s experience abroad is different. The study abroad or international internship program location you choose can affect how connected and supported you feel. As you review your options, we encourage you to use the information linked below to help find a program and place that’s the right fit for you.

Impact 🌎

In response to the overwhelming global climate crisis, AIFS Abroad is pleased to make sustainability a key priority when considering organizational, operational, and programming decisions. We understand that the only way to effectively combat this crisis and mitigate the effects of climate change is to drastically reduce our environmental impact. Therefore, AIFS Abroad has committed to reaching carbon neutrality. AIFS Abroad is proud to announce we have signed the CANIE Accord, becoming the first US provider to make this commitment.

Reviews

Default avatar
Raegan
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Extended my 3-month internship into 6 months!

I originally had a 3-month internship from February to April, but I enjoyed it so much that I decided to extend it for another 3 months! Sydney is an incredible location—there’s so much to do here, and honestly, 3 months just isn’t enough time to take it all in.

My internship has been amazing. I love the work environment I’m in, and living at Scape has made the experience even better. The housing is centrally located with easy access to everything I need. Scape also hosts fun activities for residents, which made it easy to meet other exchange students. I had so much fun attending these events—and they’re either free or super affordable!

The people in Australia are incredibly kind and welcoming. I highly recommend studying or interning abroad here—it’s been one of the best experiences of my life!

What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?
One of my favorite parts of living in Sydney was having so many beautiful beaches just a short trip away and watching the city light up at night. Sydney is such a stunning city, full of energy, with so much to see and do. Every day felt like a new adventure.
Pros
  • Close beaches
  • Such much to do
  • Nice people
Cons
  • Crowed city
  • Lots of walking (not really a con but if you don't like walking)
  • Traffic
Default avatar
Bliss
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

NYC photography internship

I had an amazing experience in NYC with AIFS that helped me gain a new sense of independence and confidence within myself and my art. I learned so much about my self and what I want to do professionally. I was able to make connections in the music/art industry, made some money(not alot, but still some), and meaningful friendships. I was able to work with models, rappers, and creatives, and DJs. I did face alot of stress in beginning and Samia, my advisor helped me through everything and getting placed in a new environment where i flourished and was able to express my creativity and work with other creative minds.

If you did this all over again, what's one thing you would change?
I would go out more and go see the city more. It was pretty cold during my time here so it made it difficult to get around but I cannot stress this enough. GO OUT. GO EXPLORE. GO DO OUTSIDE. Get out of your dorm and hang out in study areas, go for walks around the dorms, if your of age theres endless places to go out and party. There is always something to do and always someone new to meet. AND do not feel scared to go up to someone and spark a conversation in the dorms if you need friends, theres a big chance they probably need friends too.
Pros
  • Never bored
  • public transportation
  • Artists/Creative minds everywhere
Cons
  • very expensive
Default avatar
Iman
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

The Best Summer of My Life – Thanks to AIFS Abroad!

Spending a summer interning in Lisbon with AIFS Abroad was easily one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. From start to finish, AIFS handled everything—securing my internship, setting up housing, preparing me for the experience with career readiness resources, and providing ongoing support while I was there. Even after the program ended, they continued to offer guidance and connections that made a lasting impact on my career. They made the entire process so seamless that all I had to do was show up, learn, and enjoy every second of it.

I interned as a Marketing Coordinator at PowerX Gym, where I got hands-on experience in content creation, event planning, and website development. I collaborated with an international team, adapted marketing strategies for different audiences, and strengthened my leadership and creativity. This experience confirmed my passion for marketing and management, and it also gave me something even more valuable—lifelong friendships. I still text and call my coworkers, and I even got to go back over Thanksgiving to visit!

But what made this experience truly unforgettable was Lisbon itself. The city is vibrant, colorful, and full of life, with historic trams, stunning viewpoints, and the best food you’ll ever have (seriously, I’m still dreaming about the pastéis de nata). Every day felt like an adventure, and AIFS made sure we experienced it to the fullest. Their on-site staff, who are Lisbon locals (in my opinion they are the most supportive, cool, and fun people), gave us the BEST recommendations on where to eat, what to see, and even local events we wouldn’t have found on our own.

One of my absolute favorite parts of the program was the weekly Sunday field trips. AIFS took us on incredible excursions to Sintra’s fairytale castles, the stunning beaches of Cascais, and even a group surf trip! These weren’t just sightseeing trips—they were bonding experiences with the other interns, making every weekend an adventure. Having these built into the program meant I got to experience so much more of Portugal beyond just Lisbon, without the stress of planning everything on my own.

For future participants: Say yes to everything! Take advantage of the incredible support from AIFS, be proactive in your internship, and immerse yourself in Lisbon’s culture. Try new foods, explore new neighborhoods, and step outside your comfort zone. This experience will change the way you see the world, and I can’t recommend it enough.

If you're looking for an internship abroad that combines career growth, cultural immersion, and a city that will steal your heart, AIFS Abroad in Lisbon is the perfect choice!

What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?
The most surprising experience I had in Lisbon was our surf trip to Costa de Caparica with our program advisors, Sabrina and Monique. I had never surfed before, but that wasn’t what made it so surprising—it was the fact that I was surrounded by people who, just weeks before, were complete strangers, and yet I felt so comfortable, so at home, and so free to be myself.

My roommates, who had become my best friends, came along with the rest of the interns, and we spent the whole time laughing, wiping out, and cheering each other on. None of us really knew what we were doing, but that was the best part—there was no pressure, no judgment, just pure fun and excitement every time someone caught a wave (or completely ate it). The instructors were patient, the waves were perfect, and the energy was just unreal.

Afterward, Sabrina and Monique took us to this adorable Greek restaurant, where we all sat around a table, sharing food and stories about our lives. It was one of those moments where you just sit back, look around, and realize how special everything is. We talked about our internships, our experiences in Lisbon, and just bonded in a way that felt so natural, like we had all known each other forever.

This trip was the most surprising for me because it showed me how quickly connections can form when you’re open to new experiences. I wasn’t just learning how to surf—I was learning how to embrace the unknown, trust the people around me, and fully enjoy the moment. That day will always be one of my favorite memories from my summer in Lisbon.
Pros
  • Unmatched Support & Seamless Experience
  • Personal & Professional Growth
  • Lifelong Friendships & Adventures
Cons
  • Short Timeframe – Two months wasn’t enough!
  • Budgeting & Expenses
  • Not learning more Portuguese
Default avatar
Yeidy
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Intern in Barcelona, Spain

As an intern in Barcelona, I had an amazing experience, thanks to the AIFS program and my incredible supervisor, who provided invaluable support and guidance. The program was well organized, from my welcoming homestay to thoughtfully planned activities. I only wish there had been more events that fit into my busy schedule so interns could participate more often and have more time to connect with other students.

Overall, it was a truly rewarding experience that I’ll always cherish. My supervisor played a huge role in my growth during the internship, pushing me to give my best at work and encouraging me to explore Barcelona more through her kind and thoughtful advice.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
My advice is to enjoy every second and be open to new experiences, especially when it comes to trying the amazing local food. Embrace every opportunity to learn and grow, including practicing the language of the place you’re staying. It’s not only a great way to connect with people and culture but also an invaluable skill to have as a second language is so important in today’s world.
Pros
  • Enjoying every moment ensures you create lasting memories of your time abroad.
  • The language and culture helps you build meaningful relationships.
Cons
  • Trying new foods or adapting to unfamiliar customs may take time and effort.
  • Being open to everything could lead to overcommitting or feeling drained.
Default avatar
Sicily
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Amazing Internship Experience in Barcelona

I completed an internship in Barcelona, Spain and I had the best experiences in my life. I was able to apply the internship as credits towards my degree, and AIFS has been such a wonderful and supportive program. The staff is amazing and personable, and with 30 something kids to look over, you can tell that our group really looked to them for support. Inma, my internship coordinator, placed me with an amazing company where I held a marketing position, and she was extremely supportive and a really well-rounded and wonderful person as well.

Programs

Displaying 1 - 9 of 34

Alumni Interviews

These are in-depth Q&A sessions with verified alumni.

Yeidy Nicole Fortier

Yeidy

Why did you choose this program?

I joined this program to explore my digital media career while traveling the world. The organization went above and beyond by matching me with the ideal company to support my growth. This journey has been an incredible opportunity for both personal and professional development, and I’m truly grateful.

What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?

My homestay was incredible; after returning from my internship each day, everything was clean, and I didn’t have to worry about preparing meals. It made life so much easier and allowed me to fully enjoy my time abroad. Living in a homestay is far better than being on your own because it helps you connect with the culture and truly feel at home in the place you’re staying.

The organization did an excellent job pairing me with the right company for my internship and finding the perfect homestay for me. I absolutely loved the experience and felt so grateful for the thoughtful arrangements that made my stay unforgettable.

What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?

I cherished every moment because time passed so quickly. Speaking the language allowed me to connect with locals and gave me a deeper sense of belonging, which made me want to return. I even made a friend who taught me so much. Though I was initially hesitant to open up, it turned into an incredible experience. I grew not only as a person but also professionally, discovering new perspectives and strengthening my confidence. The connections I made and the lessons I learned will stay with me forever, shaping my future in ways I never expected.

What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?

My experience was unique because I was interning Monday to Friday while also taking an online class, so weekends were mostly for homework. However, I made sure to balance my time by spending weekends with friends and exploring the beautiful city of Barcelona, making the most of both work and leisure.

Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?

I was afraid of being alone and not finding friends, but this program helped me connect with so many people. I was also nervous about exploring the city solo, but by the end, I enjoyed visiting cafes, restaurants, and brunch spots on my own, gaining independence and embracing the experience, of somethimes enjoying the time by yourself in a place you don't know well.

I absolutely loved my experience studying abroad as an intern. It helped me grow in so many ways, both artistically and mentally. I especially enjoyed meeting amazing people who supported me throughout the journey and being able to contribute to the company I worked with.

One of the most incredible parts of the experience was working in a real office, observing the company’s helping the models, making videos around Barcelona, and seeing how everything operated behind the scenes. It gave me a deeper understanding of the industry and inspired me in ways I never imagined.

Staff Interviews

These are in-depth Q&A sessions with program leaders.

Lydia Theologus

Lydia spent her senior year of college interning abroad in Florence, Italy for a Tuscan Wine Touring company. After graduating, she wanted to help other young professionals have the same life-changing experiences. At GE, Lydia's favorite job tasks are showcasing their interns' amazing experiences abroad on their platforms.
Lydia Theologus

What is your favorite travel memory?

When thinking of my favorite travel memories, an array of breathtaking new sights, laughter, stepping out of my comfort zone, and spending time with unforgettable people flashes through my mind. One memory that combines all four aspects was during my time interning abroad in Florence, Italy.

My roommates and I took a day trip to visit Cinque Terre, the string of centuries-old villages on the Italian Riviera coastline. After exploring Riomaggiore (picture the famous shot of colorful houses on a seaside cliff), the beach town of Monterosso al Mare was next on our list. The furthest villages away from each other, there were two options for methods of transportation: the train, or a strenuous 7.5 mile hike that could take up to 5 hours. While most of the group opted for the train, my roommate from Amsterdam was feeling adventurous and asked me to join her in the hike.

Together, we braved through climbing, descending, narrow passages, and steep, uneven stone steps. Though it was exhausting, the trek was well worth it as we discovered incredible views of the coast, lush olive groves, and exotic plants and flowers.

My favorite part was coming across a quaint stand selling limoncello during one of the descents, manned by a sweet old Italian man. While I may have regretted thinking that taking a limoncello shot in the middle of a 5-hour hike would be refreshing, I’ll never regret that I said yes to a new adventure that would turn into a cherished memory.

How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?

I started working at Global Experiences fresh out of college, eager to learn and take on responsibilities. While I've gained technical skills such as learning how to code and Photoshop, I've also learned valuable soft skills that I'll have with me for the years to come. I've gained organizational skills and become more confident in my decision making. Through being welcomed to give new ideas and input, my creativity has also been able to grow.

What is the best story you've heard from a return student?

I'm lucky to be able to work with many of our alumni and interns while they're abroad and capturing their stories and experiences. I get to hear a lot of awesome perks that our interns receive from working hard at their internships, but my favorite was when our Barcelona Fashion Business intern, Olivia V., attended the 080 Barcelona Fashion Show for work. She was interviewed by Elle Magazine, and was featured on their next issue!

If you could go on any program that your company offers, which one would you choose and why?

This question is perfect for me because I have gone on one of GE's internship abroad programs!

Fall of my senior year, I had a marketing internship abroad in Florence, Italy for 3 months. Studying abroad in Italy had always been a dream of mine, and Florence seemed like the perfect choice for many reasons. I wanted to experience a different culture, and knew that Florence had so much art, history and architecture to offer for me to learn and explore. For my first time living abroad, I wanted to live somewhere that was easy to get around in, yet was also an easy gateway to explore the rest of the country and Europe. The language barrier did not bother me either because I heard that Italians were friendly and just appreciated you trying to speak their language.

Upon arriving, these reasons proved to be right on all accounts. Interning in Florence, Italy was everything that I could have dreamed of and more!

What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?

I find Global Experiences to be unique because of how passionate every member of our team is about our mission. We've all had life-changing experiences abroad, and want to help young professionals gain a worldly perspective while enhancing their career path. We truly care about every single intern that goes through our program and are dedicated to finding the best possible match for them from pre-departure to when they're on the ground. I felt that myself as I was going through the Florence program, and was confirmed once I started working behind the scenes at GE.

I was especially proud of my team when we pledged to donate $20,000 every year in scholarships to interns. We want to make this experience accessible to as many students as possible, and to make this official was really exciting.

What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?

I believe that the biggest factor in being a successful company is to value your customers and always put their best interests first. It's important to ask for their feedback, listen, and act on it. No one knows their customer journey better than they do. Using their data to create useful, personalized experiences for others is okay, but it's important not to abuse their data. A successful business starts and ends with valued customers.

Professional Associations

Alliance for International Exchange Logo