The American Institute for Foreign Study (Australia) Pty Ltd opened its Australian office in 1999 and began offering its Camp America and Au Pair in America programs to young Australians. In 2005, AIFS commenced offering inbound programs and currently facilitates cultural exchange programs for more than 2,000 young people.
Click on the apply now button on the right hand side or in the menu to start a new application. Complete at least 3 skills to start with and follow the ‘to complete’ list on your personal application profile.
Reach out to your selected interviewer informing them of your availability. If you have any issues communicating with your interviewer, please call the office on 1300 889 067 and we will help you schedule an interview.
Apply for an Australian Federal Police Check (AFP) - We will only accept the Australian Federal Police Check.
You can apply for your AFP online here. You may also need to complete a Medical Disclosure Form for any pre-existing conditions (if applicable) before the interview. You will be advised if this is the case.
Your application will circulate via our online recruitment database and Camp Directors will see it - make it stand out!
Once your application is marked as 'Ready to Place,' camp directors will be able to view it, and they may want to interview you via Zoom or a phone call.
We will guide you through the necessary steps to book your appointment at one of the three Consulates in Australia: Sydney, Melbourne or Perth. Please note those living outside of these areas will need to attend an interview at the closest Consulate.
The cultural exchange visa grants you 30 days before your camp start date and 30 days after your camp end date to travel within the United States! If you are interested in travelling for longer, we can assist you with applying for a tourist visa.
Now that you have your visa, it's time to book your flights and start planning your travel arrangements.
Traveling is an exciting part of your trip, and deciding where to go can be overwhelming. Companies like Intrepid offer small group tours, or you can travel with old friends from home or new friends you meet at camp! For most information click here.
Our Pre-Departure events fully prepare you for camp and are an opportunity to connect with other participants heading to camp, maybe even the same camp as you! Dates will be sent to you closer to the time.
If you're not arranged to be picked up the day you arrive, we recommend booking accommodation near your camp’s pick up point. For accommodation options click here.
You have finally arrived at camp! Your main responsibility is to care for children, making sure they are safe while having fun.
Your fellow camp staff will be there with you on and off camp. Days off are a great time to relax. If you need anything while you are at camp, Camp America is available 24/7.