About

Since 1967, The Fund for American Studies (TFAS) has been a leader in educating young people from around the world in the fundamental principles of democracy and the free market system. TFAS has been the launching pad for more than 42,000 students who have participated in our programs in Washington, DC, across the United States, and around the world. Alumni of our programs are leaders in government, business, the media and nonprofit sector.

Our goal is to inspire future leaders to make a difference in their communities and throughout the world by upholding the values essential to the preservation and success of a free society.

TFAS Santiago Students in the center of the city at the entrance of the historic Santa Lucia Hill.
International Programs

TFAS established its first international program in Prague in 1993. Today, TFAS sponsors four international programs that help bring the principles of freedom to future leaders all over the world. Each of our international programs provides participants with a rigorous academic experience, fosters dialogues that cross borders, and strengthens TFAS’ global network of future leaders. Visit our Programs Page to learn more.


“I would not be here today if it weren’t for The Fund for American Studies. I’m very grateful for the opportunities and experiences of those two summers. It certainly propelled me into the arena…it made me recognize that what we have in this country is very precious, but also exceptionally fragile.”

U.S. Representative David Rouzer of North Carolina
TFAS Alumnus

TFAS Prague students exploring the grounds of Prague Castle.
TFAS Prague students explore the Castle grounds perched above the city of a hundred spires.

Our Washington, DC programs take place year-round. During the summer students can earn 3-9 credits from George Mason University, complete an internship in their field of interest and live in the heart of DC. Five different tracks are offered: public policy and economics, international affairs, journalism and communications, business and government relations, and leadership + the American presidency.

The Capital Semester program takes place during the academic year. Students spend 15 weeks in Washington, DC, earning 12 credits from George Mason University, interning in their fields of interest, and living in furnished apartments in the Capitol Hill neighborhood.

More information on our Washington, DC programs can be found at www.DCinternships.org.

TFAS provides programming for high school students and teachers through The Foundation for Teaching Economics. TFAS also offers several fellowship opportunities for law students and working professionals, continuing education programs and conferences are available to alumni around the country, as well as a campus speaker series. 

The Fund for American Studies is headquartered in Washington, DC. For additional information about The Fund for American Studies, please visit www.TFAS.org

The Fund for American Studies is headquartered in Washington, DC. For additional information about The Fund for American Studies, please visit www.TFAS.org