So you want to go to Dominican Republic with AFS?

AFS Dominican Republic offers the following programs for those who wish to come and learn about our culture:

School Year Program: From late August to mid July

Community Service Program: From January to June, or from July to December

All our programs involve a host family stay, the best way to experience and learn from our rich and diverse culture. Some Community Service program involves a community project stay.

To apply, please contact the AFS National Office in your home country, or write to us at info-dominicanrepublic@afs.org

About the country:

Its geography will impress you, its cultural legacy will enchant you, and the people of this tropical island will forever stay in your heart. The geography of the Dominican Republic is the most diverse in the Caribbean, ranging from desert plains to rainforest valleys to the 10,000 foot-high mountains to white sand beaches along its 870-mille cost line. But do not overlook its impressive historical legacy. Santo Domingo is the oldest city in the Americas. Its historic colonial quarter includes the Americas’ very fist cathedral, hospital, chapel, university and town hall. However, the true charm and beauty of the Dominican Republic are reflected in its people. You will share their love of life and respect for traditions while immersing yourself in this lively and unique culture. You will experience what it means to feel at home in this wonderful – and welcoming – country.

Year Program

Most AFS Exchange Students will attend a private school with a standard curriculum such as Spanish language and literature, math, science, history, philosophy, and religion. The school year runs from August through June. There are plenty of cultural activities to become involved with, including: events in Santo Domingo; the “Carnaval” in La Vega; hiking in Pico Duarte, the highest elevation in the Caribbean; whales’ watch in Samaná; or trips to the mountains or the coast. Your friends will like to get together, watch movies, relax in cafés, or go dancing, which Dominicans young and old love to do! Dominicans especially enjoy Merengue, which is the national dance. There are also opportunities to perform community service activities, as well as AFS Orientations throughout the year to attend, providing you with the opportunities to meet AFS Students from countries around the world.

Community Service Program

You may be involved with projects in hospitals, nurseries, micro-finance development, and educational settings, or work on human rights issues or environmental projects. An arrival orientation discusses the country, the community service projects, and your host family as you help – and learn about – Dominican communities and people.

IMPORTANT NOTICE!

This site is only to inform about the possible programs Dominican Republic offers. If you want to participate you will have to apply in your own national office in your country. On the top right is a drop-down-scrollbar with all the countries listed. Click your own to inform yourself about the application process in your country!