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AIFS (Australia) is an Australian registered company which has been operating travel & education opportunities in Australia since 1972. AIFS Australia is part of the larger AIFS group which has been sending young people around the globe since 1964. Click here to learn more about AIFS’ history. 

The American Institute for Foreign Study (AIFS) and its family of companies that organises cultural exchange programs throughout the world for more than 50,000 students and young people each year. Since 1964 AIFS has been the leading provider of cultural exchange and educational opportunities for more than 1.8 million young people.

1972 was the first year we operated in Australia, recruiting young Australians to our Camp America program. In 2005 AIFS opened its Sydney office and student centre, expanding our outbound programs, and offering inbound programs to Australia. Today AIFS is one of the largest cultural exchange companies as well as being the largest Au pair agency of its kind in Australia.

AIFS’ mission is “to provide the highest quality educational and cultural exchange programs to enrich the lives of young people throughout the world.”

AIFS’ values are:

• Excellence in our programs, operations and our people
• Respect for all cultures and ethnicities
• Exceptional, caring support for our program participants to ensure their safety and well-being
• Technological innovation
• Responsible financial stewardship
• Teamwork and collaboration both within the organisation and with our global partners
• Encouragement of employee initiative and professional development
• Honest, equitable and non-discriminatory treatment of our employees and our program participants
• Commitment to socially and environmentally responsible practices

AIFS facilitates both outbound and inbound opportunities for gap years, Au Pair programs, volunteer and adventure travel, as well as high school exchanges. Our most well-known placements are with Camp America, Au Pair in America, Winter Work Japan, Winter Work Canada, Work & Travel and AIFS Au Pair. 

We are service driven and will ensure that you are supported throughout the application process and while on your placement. Every application is individually vetted, and we always take the time to answer questions and explain our processes. Direct costs can include visa sponsorship, 24/7 in country support, study allowances, flights, social events, orientations, and in some cases accommodation, some meals and tours.

All AIFS profits are distributed by the Cyril Taylor Charitable Foundation (CTCF). The CTCF’s mission is of world peace, support for underserved students, and bringing the world together through international education and cultural exchange. AIFS is the sole funder of CTCF.

AIFS’ head office in Australia is located near Sydney’s Hyde Park. The centre is open during standard business hours, and all are welcome to drop by!

AIFS supports every customer from application until placement. We offer 24/7 emergency support for all participants and have comprehensive policies and procedures. Our team are passionate about cultural exchange with an extensive experience and firsthand knowledge. We are always transparent about our fees, so you know exactly what you pay for and what services you will receive in return.

AIFS offers excellent level of support 24/7 in Australia and overseas.