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About ASSIST Scholars
ASSIST transforms excellence into opportunity and opportunity into impact.
ASSIST connects exceptional international students with leading private high schools in North America, providing a transformational experience through yearlong scholarships.
As mission-aligned matchmakers, we connect schools with students who change the conversation in their classrooms and turn this opportunity into a lifetime of impact. Together ASSIST Scholars, member schools and supporters are building a global network of future leaders committed to creating a more peaceful, productive and hopeful world.
What We Do ASSIST is known for
Leading American Private Schools
Trusted Quality
A Global Network
Expert Matching
Education With Purpose
56 Years of Experience
Comprehensive Orientations
Our History
The story of ASSIST is characterized not just by our exceptional scholars and schools, but also by our visionary leaders.
1969
Beginning with a class of 13 students from Germany, Paul G. ”Sandy” Sanderson, Jr. launched the pioneering educational and cultural exchange program that would transform the American private school community.
1986
Upon Sandy’s passing, his legacy was passed into the capable hands of Michelle Stolkien, who served as ASSIST's Acting Executive Director while the Board worked to find a passionate and willing president to fill Sandy's shoes.
1987
Ken and Betsy Lindfors, friends of Sandy's and active members of the independent school community, became the new permanent heads of ASSIST. Over the next 13 years, they were instrumental in growing ASSIST into the organization it is today.
2000
After Ken and Betsy retired, Robert and Anne Stanley became the third leadership team in ASSIST's long history. Martin Milne joined them as Vice President for School and Family Relations in 2009. Under their leadership, ASSIST has continued to expand and welcome students from new countries into the ASSIST community.
2020
After Bob Stanley’s passing in April 2020, Martin Milne served as the Acting President until his formal appointment by the Board of Directors as the fourth President of ASSIST in November 2020.
Today
Today, over 6,300 students from 61 countries have become ASSIST Scholars, and they comprise our vibrant and engaged global network of active alumni.
Frequently Asked Questions About ASSIST
- What sets ASSIST’s support system apart from other exchange programs?
Exceptional, continuous support is a major differentiator for ASSIST. We do not simply place you in a school and leave you to navigate the experience alone; we walk with you every step of the way, before, during, and after your exchange year. Our comprehensive preparation ensures that Scholars are fully equipped to thrive academically, socially, and logistically.
- How does ASSIST help me prepare before I leave my home country?
Long before you board your flight, ASSIST conducts a thorough Pre-Departure Orientation designed to manage the practicalities of moving abroad. This preparation covers all essential matters, including:
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- Visa Logistics: Step-by-step guidance through the U.S. student visa application process.
- Health & Insurance: Comprehensive overviews of your medical insurance coverage and how to navigate the U.S. healthcare system.
- Academic Readiness: Strategic insights into American classroom dynamics, grading systems, and course selection.
- Travel Planning: Assistance with flight coordination, packing essentials, and arrival logistics.
- What does the ASSIST name mean?
ASSIST originally stood for American Secondary Schools for International Students and Teachers. Although our work has evolved since our founding, and we no longer offer teacher programs, the name ASSIST continues to reflect our mission of creating life-changing educational opportunities across cultures.
The Details
ASSIST is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with tax-exempt status incorporated in the state of Connecticut, USA. We are designated by the U.S. State Department as an authorized Exchange Visitor Program. ASSIST is able to facilitate the issuance of the J-1 visa, under which some of our Scholars study in the U.S. for one academic year on Exchange Visitor status.
ASSIST does not discriminate, nor does it condone harassment, on the basis of gender, race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, or on any other basis proscribed by applicable policies or laws.