Dear AFS-USA Volunteers,

We are pleased to announce that our SH26 programs are now live! We have a few new destinations, and program length options that we are very excited to be offering this year.

Some important things to know about our 2026 program application processing:

Scholarship Deadline: July 15th

We are announcing that our first scholarship deadline will be July 15th. Depending on the number of applicants, and the remaining funds, we may have an additional deadline beyond that. But I would encourage any interested students who need financial assistance to apply right away! The earlier, the better.

Application Deadlines: August 15th, September 15th, October 15th

We are also bringing back program application deadlines! This deadlines vary by program and we have chosen dates that are slightly earlier than the partner transfer deadlines. The program application deadline is listed on every program page. We are hoping that the deadline will encourage applicants to complete applications soon and give us enough time to work with applicants on edits before we must transfer applications to our partners.

Programs and Pipeline Report– Use this report to see program matrix numbers, travel dates, age ranges, and which Specialist works with that program!

Study Abroad Widget- use the widget to track the progress of your applicants and keep in touch with them!

Communication templates– Easy to use templates that you can copy and paste to keep in touch with your applicants and their families!

Thank you all!

Caitlin Schneider, and the Study Abroad team