The Kennedy Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) program
The Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) program brings high school students from countries of strategic importance to the United States for an academic year to advance the U.S. foreign policy goals of promoting civil society, youth leadership development, and lasting ties between Americans and the people of participating countries. Applicants compete for YES scholarships through a rigorous, merit-based selection process. While on program, participants live with American host families, attend high school, and engage in community service and civic education activities. Since 2003, nearly 13,000 students from over 45 countries have participated in YES.
To apply check the website below.
———————
For US Citizens
Advance Your Global Competitiveness and Cross-Cultural Understanding through an Academic Year Study Abroad Scholarship
The YES Abroad program provides merit-based scholarships for eligible high school students to develop a perspective of a Muslim culture first-hand. Participants spend an academic year attending a high school while living with a host family in select countries with significant Muslim populations. A network of support through partner international exchange organizations, field staff, trained volunteers, and carefully selected host families helps ensure a successful exchange experience.
Participants serve as “youth ambassadors” of the United States, promoting mutual understanding by forming lasting relationships with their host families and communities. If you have a passion for learning about other cultures, this program may be for you!
Approximately 65 American students participate in YES Abroad each year. Upon their return to the United States, the students apply their leadership skills and share knowledge about their host countries through community engagement.
Eligibility and Application Overview
Please check back in fall 2022 for application information.
Eligibility details:
- Must be a U.S. citizen
- 15-18.5 years of age at start of program
- Enrolled in high school (including home school) at the time of application
- For the following countries, prior French skills are required: Morocco, Senegal
- The YES Abroad program seeks applicants of all racial, ethnic, religious, socio-economic backgrounds, and sexual orientations.
For more information about the program, visit YES Abroad (yes-abroad.org)