India

Over 1 billion people and even more sights

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The second most populous country in the world, dozens of religions, languages, and ethnic groups shape the incredibly diverse culture of India. In the country of the Ganges River and the majestic Himalayan Mountains you will discover a mix of traditional sarees and modern suits, learn Yoga, and see food carts with fried vegetables and fish lining the streets.

Watching and playing sports, movies, shopping, going to the beach top teen activities. However, school has the absolute priority for young people and they often spend a lot of their free time studying. Dating in India is not very common.

AFS Youth exchange in India

Culture

Humility, nonviolence and respect for the elderly tend to be universal values in India. Sharing and the community are also very important – you can even share the food on your plate with others freely as a sign of closeness. People in India usually focus more on the needs of the group over an individual. The Indian communication style tends to be rather indirect, and you will rarely hear someone saying an outright no to an invitation. Vegetarianism is quite common in India.

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Host Family & Community

And dancing with strangers! #yesabroad #afsindia 🎉

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You may be hosted anywhere in India. No matter where you are, several generations often live together, and decisions about education or marriage are rarely made without consulting other family members. The Indian sense of community means that you should try and spend as much time as possible with others at home, rather than be alone behind closed doors.

School

Education is quite demanding in India. You will most likely attend the 11th grade at an Indian public school (which are considered private schools around the world). Depending on which state you are placed in, your school year may start in March (Delhi) or in June (South India). You will choose one of the four tracks of study: engineering, medical, commerce or (liberal) arts. Exchange students usually take (liberal) arts track, where they learn economics, history, philosophy, psychology, sociology etc. You should also try out one of the extracurricular activities offered in schools, such as drawing, games, group discussions, cricket or basketball.

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Language

Hindi and English are the official languages, but you can expect to speak English during most of your exchange in India and should know it before the program. There are 22 different languages that have been recognised by the Constitution of India, as well as other local languages and dialects depending on the area.

Food

Food is a big part of Indian culture, and it is as diverse as you can imagine depending on the region. Full of flavor and often spicy, meals are a great time to socialize and be with your family. Indian cuisine consists of lots of vegetables, beans, lentils, rice and only sometimes meat, so vegetarians will have plenty of options to choose from.

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