Program Details
| Program Length | Start | End | Gateway | Age on Departure |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year | SEP 1-4 |
JUN 25-28 | New York/ Washington, D.C. | 15-18 |
| Semester | Mid-January | Late June | New York | 15-18 |
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.
Portugal Details
Portugal is one of the oldest countries in Europe, having established itself as an independent nation in the 12th century. You’ll find a country that likes to enjoy life and loves to express it through folk festivals, traditional Fado music, and markets overflowing with fish, fruit, and flowers. In Lisbon you can find modern office buildings next to traditional Manueline architecture, a style that combines twisting Moorish lines with ornamental symbols of the sea. The local cuisine relies heavily on the sea, and the most typical dish you’ll find is codfish, which the Portuguese prepare in many different ways. There are also numerous celebrations, fairs, religious pilgrimages, and festivals you’ll witness during your stay. Each region, even the smallest village, keeps particular traditions alive year round through colorful decoration, food, drinks, dances, and songs.
Year and Semester Programs
You will attend public high school and your school placement will be based on your interests and academic achievements in one of the following subject tracks: sciences, technologies, social/economical
social/humanistic, languages/literature, or visual arts. Unlike the U.S. school system, students don’t get to choose the subjects they wish to study; instead they must choose one of the areas above which include specific mandatory classes. Most schools provide a Portuguese tutor to help AFS Exchange Students. Few schools offer extracurricular activities, so students and communities organize their own activities including sports, arts, and hobby clubs. Intercultura-AFS Portugal also offers orientations and social gatherings throughout your stay. View PDF Brochure for Portugal School Programs.
