Doubles Scholarships for Students

STAMFORD, Conn. BUSINESS WIRE The American Institute For Foreign Study today announced it will offer $600,000 in study abroad scholarships, more than doubling last year’s total. In addition, AIFS will reduce fees on many of its programs, beginning with the 2010/2011 academic year.

AIFS is committed to helping students participate in the life changing experience of studying abroad, said AIFS President and CEO William L. Gertz. While the economy has affected many students’ ability to study abroad, the opportunity to travel to foreign countries and learn different cultures is more important now than ever before. And it truly makes for a more well rounded education for college students, explained Gertz. By reducing AIFS’ fees and doubling scholarship dollars, we will help many students fulfill their dream of living and learning overseas.

AIFS has also assumed a leadership position to further ensure that all students are able to take advantage of international education opportunities by earmarking nearly one third of the $600,000 in available funds towards diversification of study abroad participants. Traditionally underrepresented students can apply for diversity scholarships such as the AIFS HACU Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities Scholarship or the AIFS-NAFEO National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education Scholarship.

In 2008, the number of students studying abroad reached an all time high after a decade of unprecedented growth nearly 150 percent over 10 years according to the Institute of International Education. A 2009 survey by the Forum on Education Abroad reports that 58 percent of private U.S. colleges and universities had experienced a drop in participation in their study abroad programs, citing the economy.

AIFS was able to lower fees for many of its programs, including nearly $1,000 off selected European locations, the most popular choices by students. In addition, AIFS continues to offer guaranteed rates, immune to currency fluctuations and the strength of the U.S. dollar.AIFS’ comprehensive programs include housing, meals, transcripts, insurance and a rich variety of built-in cultural activities and excursions.

As a leader in cultural exchange, AIFS sends more than 5,000 students abroad each year. Since its founding in 1964, AIFS has been committed to providing students with the safest, most enjoyable and highest quality educational programs. AIFS celebrates a proud history of providing opportunities to the international education community. Over one million people from more than 500 colleges and universities have participated in AIFS programs.