IFX Internation Futbol X-Change

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In the country of Gauchos, Mate, Asado, Tango, Pampas, and Dulce de leche, there is much to explore. South America’s second largest country and once one of the world’s wealthiest, Argentina has extraordinary diversity and a fascinating history.

Buenos Aires, the capital, is the cultural and economic center of the country. With it’s location on the Atlantic and closest to the Old Continent, it is probably the most European city in South America.

Students who choose an academic year or a semester program in Argentina will live with a host family, attend a local public high school, and play with a competitive Argentine soccer club.

ACADEMICS

For academic year and semester programs, students will attend a local high school with a wide range of coursework and curriculum. Classes are challenging with expectations of completion of coursework not only in, but outside the classroom. Students are required to take certain core courses, which generally include: Spanish language, literature, foreign language, philosophy, and physical education. Additionally, students may choose one optional area of study to broaden their curriculum including: arts, science or technology.

All classes will be conducted in Spanish. Exposure to Spanish in the classroom and in their daily life helps them to master and become fluent in their foreign language skills. You will have an added advantage over other foreign piers with additional exposure to the Spanish language through your soccer activities.

SOCCER: FUTBOL

Argentina has long been known not only as one of Latin America’s most successful footballing nations, but also consistently presides at the top of the world stage. Producing legendary players such as Maradona, Batistuta, and Messi, Argentina is one of the top countries worldwide for it’s football.

Argentine club in Buenos Aires

With a passion for the sport dating back over a century, Argentina’s extensive professional and amateur systems ensure sustainable production of world class talent.

IFX players are placed within a competitive Argentine football club fit to their level. Players are placed within a challenging football environment that allows tremendous opportunity for development. IFX manages the full international transfer of each player enabling participation in official league matches.

PROGRAM DETAILS

Academic Year, Fall and Spring Semester students are given an orientation upon arrival in Argentina. Players are placed with carefully selected host families in the Buenos Aires city and province. Ongoing program support is provided by an in country program representative. Public transportation throughout Buenos Aires is very accessible. Transportation costs are the student’s responsibility, including daily transportation to and from school, if necessary.

Students need a visa to study in Argentina and will be assisted in this process.

REQUIREMENTS

• Currently competing at a competitive level of soccer
• One year of high school Spanish language study, or demonstrated equivalent comprehension strongly encouraged, but not required
• 15-18 years old at the start of the program
• 2.5 GPA or higher (4.0 scale)
• Flexible and mature personality; desire to be challenged, ability to remain open-minded and tolerant of cultural differences
• A letter to your potential host family written in Spanish as part of your complete application

PROGRAM INFORMATION

LATE APPLICATIONS CONSIDERED ON A CASE BY CASE BASIS

*All dates are approximations and vary from year to year

NOTE: The IFX program to Argentina has limited capacity, so students are encouraged to apply well in advance of the application deadlines.

PROGRAM INCLUDES

• Round-trip airfare from a major international airport near your home including domestic and international flights
• Airport transfers on arrival and departure
• Homestay accommodation including meals with your host family
• Placement in a local high school
• Placement with a competitive Argentine soccer club
• Weekly soccer training
• Participation in all soccer club tournaments, league matches, training camps, training sessions, etc, upon approval of registration by National and Regional Federations subject to FIFA transfer restrictions.
• Soccer league fees, and club gear (shoes not included).
• Ongoing support of soccer program aspect
• Post-program support for college recruitment process including letters of recommendation.
• Assistance with student visa application process
• Student health and accident insurance
• 24-hour emergency assistance
• Pre-departure orientations
• Supervision, guidance, and support during the application process and throughout the program
• Student Handbook

PROGRAM DOES NOT INCLUDE

• Passport and visa application fees as applicable
• Personal expenses (e.g., toiletries, clothing, internet, calling card, activities)
• School expenses (e.g., uniform/lunches, if required, supplies, bus pass)
• Any other item not specified