AYUSA welcomes boys and girls between the ages of 15 and 18, for 5 and 10-month academic programs. Our students hail from over 60 countries throughout Europe, Asia, Central, South America and Southern Africa and many are recipients of prestigious scholarships. All prospective students must first participate in a rigorous screening process, in which they are evaluated for their social and intellectual maturity, strength of goals, and leadership qualities. Every student must be able to speak, read, and write in English. They are expected to fully participate in an American high school.

As an AYUSA host family, your financial responsibility is very minimal. Your exchange son or daughter asks that you provide food on the table, and a bedroom, either private or shared, with a same gender host sibling. Natural parents pay for all of their student's program expenses, health insurance and travel costs. They will also provide a spending allowance, which is to be used for school supplies, social activities, and all personal expenses.

In every region of the U.S., from the Pacific Northwest to the Gulf States, professionally trained AYUSA staff members are eager to help you create a hosting experience that is just right for the entire family. Your local representative looks forward to a home interview, explaining the AYUSA program in detail and helping you select a student to match your family's interests. Throughout the year, your Community Representative will maintain close contact with the entire family, providing friendly support and guidance, whenever needed.