Requests for the 2025/2026 educational year are currently available, and this could be your exclusive gateway to a life-changing experience. The Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Overseas program offers fully funded scholarships for United States high school students to study in selected nations for an entire academic year, a unique opportunity that only a few can experience.
The scheme intends to promote foreign knowledge and intercultural links supported by the United States Department of State. Partaking students will settle with host families, attend local high institutions, and become immersed in their host nation’s language and culture.
Reasons You Should Apply
Below are some of the outstanding advantages of being part of the YES Abroad program:
- Completely financed grants: The program protects flight fare, tuition, food, housing, and health insurance, all necessary for your study overseas expedition.
- Cultural immersion: First, experience a fresh culture by settling with a host family and attending a local college. You will learn the local language, experience diverse traditions, and build permanent friendships.
- Private development: The YES Abroad program is about academics and personal growth. You will gain confidence, independence, and leadership skills. You will also become an ambassador of United States culture, sharing your knowledge while learning from others, an experience that will inspire and empower you.
- Sponsor system: The program provides comprehensive support, including pre-departure orientation, in-country assistance, and language internships. This ensures you feel prepared and supported throughout your journey, making your experience safe and enjoyable.
Who Can Apply
To be qualified for the YES Abroad Program, candidates are required to satisfy the following measures:
- High school registration: You must be registered in high school (grades 9-12) at the time of application.
- Age prerequisite: You must be between 15 and 18 on the program’s beginning date.
- U.S. Citizenship: You are required to be a United States national.
- Educational and individual certifications: Robust educational background, leadership potential, and a readiness to engage with various cultures are significant aspects of selection.
How To Apply
The application procedure is simple but needs devotion and focus to information. Below is the way you can make an application:
- Online application here.
- Essays and short responses: Share your encouragement, past skills, and how you envision making the most of your time via essays and brief responses to questions.
- Transcripts and recommendations: Present your official high school transcripts and letters of recommendation from your instructors.
- Interview: If chosen, you will be requested for an interview to talk about your appeals, adjustments, and preparation for the experience.
- Notification: Successful applicants will get notification and further directions concerning their admission into the program.