Program Details
| Program Length | Start | End | Gateway | Age on Departure |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year | AUG 18-21 | JUN 25-28 |
New York | 15-18 |
| Semester | AUG 19-22 | FEB 14-18 |
New York | 15-18.6 |
| Summer Language Study | JUN 24-27 | JUL 31- AUG 3 | New York | 15-26 |
Age Explanation: Age on Departure reflect both the years and month(s) of the age of the applicant at the start of the program. For example, if the age is listed as 16.1 the applicant should be 16 years and 1 month at departure. For a more detailed look at age ranges see Programs-at-a-Glance.
Latvia Details
A unique blend of Baltic and Slavic cultures, Latvia combines a rich past with a promising future. Riga, the 805-year-old capital, is full of distinctive architecture as well as modern businesses in old art nouveau buildings. Latvia is the central country of the Baltic States. Situated at a trading crossroads, Latvia has long served as a bridge between Western Europe and Russia. In 2004, Latvia became the new member of the European Union, but still holds on to its old customs, such as strong family bonds. Urban families often like to spend weekends in summer homes, and you’ll be invited along as part of the family. You’ll also discover rich home-cooked meals, many of which contain meat and potatoes. School is the center of teenage social
life in Latvia, and you and your friends will participate in activities such as swimming, dancing, basketball, music, crafts, or drama.
Year & Semester
School runs from September to May, and depending on your host family location, your school (and required language and literature classes) may be predominantly Latvian-speaking or Russian-speaking. Other required subjects include the history of Latvia and current affairs, math, a foreign language, and physical education. Upon your arrival, you will participate in a four-day orientation, which will help you develop basic Latvian or Russian language skills and prepare you for life in Latvia. You will also have the chance to take a variety of weekend outings, school trips to neighboring countries, and other optional excursions. View PDF Brochure for Latvia School Programs.
Summer Intensive Russian Language Study
Learn the Russian language in Latvia! This unique and exciting AFS Program includes a month-long immersion in the Russian language (no previous language experience is needed). You’ll live with a Russian-speaking host family and explore Daugavpils, the second-largest city in Latvia, which is surrounded by forests, lakes, and the Daugava River. You’ll attend weekday morning classes at the Daugavpils Language Center, and you’ll take part in outdoor and cultural activities during the afternoons. You’ll also have the chance to explore the country through sightseeing tours to Latvian cities including Riga, the oldest medieval city still in existence!
