Academic Year in America (AYA) is one of the most respected exchange programs in the United States. Our mission is to promote worldwide understanding through cultural exchange. AYA is sponsored by the American Institute For Foreign Study (AIFS) Foundation, a not-for-profit founded in 1967 with the assistance of Senator Robert F. Kennedy. We are a proud administrator the Department of State's Grant Programs: Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) and the Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES). Our vision is to encourage and inspire our young people, families and volunteers to become considerate and forward thinking citizens of the world, and create dynamic educational opportunities where they can share beliefs and values across cultures.