Frequently Asked Questions about SWIFT

How long has SWIFT been working on international exchange programs?
How many students participate in SWIFT programs each year?
What countries do the students come from?
Where does SWIFT offer programs in the USA?
Does SWIFT offer programs overseas?
Where does SWIFT offer programs overseas?
How much does it cost to participate in a SWIFT program?
What kinds of programs does SWIFT offer?
Does SWIFT offer Work & Travel programs?
Why does SWIFT mainly offer homestay programs?
How can I get more information about hosting an exchange student or participating in a SWIFT program?
How can I get more information on SWIFT’s international volunteer programs?

How long has SWIFT been working on international exchange programs?

SWIFT was founded by French Professor Daniel Julien in 1988.

How many students participate in SWIFT programs each year?

SWIFT averages between 500-600 students annually in group, individual, internship, volunteer, long-term, and overseas programs.

What countries do the students come from?

Currently, most of our students come from Austria, Brazil, France, Germany, and Spain. SWIFT welcomes students of all nationalities and has partners in over 70 countries of the world through its membership in the Federation of International Youth and Travel Organizations (FIYTO).

Where does SWIFT offer programs in the USA?

SWIFT offers programs in the San Francisco Bay Area, on California’s Central Coast, and in the Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego areas.

Does SWIFT offer programs overseas?

SWIFT has successfully organized overseas programs for hundreds of students over the years. Through our foreign partners, we coordinate language study, homestay, internship and volunteer programs for both groups and individuals of all ages. Our goal is to increase the numbers of Americans we send abroad – so that they can experience the lessons, challenges, and fun of living in another culture. Click here to request more information about overseas programs.

Where does SWIFT offer programs overseas?

SWIFT has foreign partners in over 70 countries of the world through its membership in the Federation of International Youth and Travel Organizations (FIYTO). Through our partners, we customize language study, homestay, and internship programs on a short-term or long-term basis. Through our International Volunteer Program, we organize 6-week placements in non-profit organizations in France, Spain, and the United Kingdom. In addition, SWIFT is currently developing volunteer, internship and language programs in Italy and Central and South America.

How much does it cost to participate in a SWIFT program?

This depends on the type, length, and location of a program. SWIFT is a non-profit organization and we attempt to keep program costs low to enable students from all backgrounds to participate.

What kinds of programs does SWIFT offer?

SWIFT organizes group, individual, internship, volunteer, long-term (5-10 months), and overseas programs. For more information about each of these programs, please click here.

Does SWIFT offer Work & Travel programs?

SWIFT is currently developing its Work & Travel program, which enables students to earn money in work placements overseas and gain exposure to new languages and cultures. We plan to launch our Work & Travel program in 2005.

Why does SWIFT mainly offer homestay programs?

Homestay programs offer participants the chance to immerse themselves in the language and culture of their host country. In addition, homestays enable host families to learn about other countries and build life-long friendships.

How can I get more information about hosting an exchange student or participating in a SWIFT program?

Please contact us for more information about hosting or participating in an exchange program.