About Federation EIL

Federation EIL is the worldwide network of The Experiment in International Living. It began in 1954 when Experiment national offices around the globe banded together to form an association to facilitate their common educational exchange programs. Federation EIL members are privately run, nonprofit, nonpolitical, and nonreligious organizations.

The Experiment in International Living (EIL), founded in 1932, was one of the first organizations of its kind to engage individuals in intercultural living and learning. Originating in the United States, The Experiment introduced the homestay concept to the world by carefully preparing and placing "Experimenters" in the homes of host families to study other languages and cultures firsthand.

Over the years, Federation EIL National Representations have been established in many countries around the globe and new programs have been added along the way. Nevertheless the original concept has remained steadfast: enabling individuals of all ages to share experiences, languages, and customs with those from different traditions, with the goals of broadening horizons, gaining lifelong friends, and advancing peace.

Today the portfolio of programs encompasses educational group travel, study abroad, language training, work exchange, community service, and other cultural immersion programs.