FLEX is a unique opportunity for secondary school students from Europe and Eurasia, including students with a disability, to spend one academic year in the U.S., living with a host family and attending a U.S. high school. Participants gain firsthand insight into U.S. daily life, culture, and society, and also share about their own countries with their host communities. Indeed, FLEX students are often the first person from their country that many in the host community meet. This exchange of cultures often results in new "second" families as host families, and their students develop connections that last a lifetime. Many students also remark that they became more mature, independent, and focused thanks to their year abroad and that they gained important life skills.
Recruitment typically begins in the fall. For information on eligibility requirements and where to apply for the 2027-28 academic year, contact the American Councils office in your country by clicking here. Every year over 30,000 students apply for FLEX, and approximately 300-700 are selected. Results are announced in the spring, and selected finalists will travel to the U.S. in summer for the academic year, returning home as FLEX alumni the following spring. Alumni advise applicants, "Don't be afraid - try!"
80%
of FLEX participants are from outside their home country’s capital city.
94%
of alumni say the FLEX program was a life-changing or great decision.
96%
of alumni would recommend the program to a friend.