Our students are exceptional

“During my YES year, I not only improved my English, but I also learned that I am tougher and more resourceful than I thought I was. While in the US, I gained the go-getter mentality that allowed me to manifest my entrepreneurial talent to help myself, my community, and all stakeholders”

— YES program student from Kosovo (hosted in Texas)

BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS. CONNECTING OUR WORLD

Our 15-18 year old scholarship exchange students come from more than 50 countries. While in the US, they are proud to serve as citizen ambassadors for their respective countries. Upon returning home, they continue to carry their positive experiences of the US—especially their host communities—throughout their lives. 

WHY OUR EXCHANGE STUDENTS?

Our students are exceptional. With an average acceptance rate of three percent, it’s statistically harder to get into a US Department of State youth exchange program than it is to be accepted to most elite colleges and universities. 

Students are recipients of merit-based scholarships and are selected based on their English language proficiency, academic performance, teacher recommendations, leadership qualities, maturity, and adaptability. 

Before arriving to their host communities, students participate in cultural orientations that help set expectations and identify strategies to use throughout their time abroad. While in the US, students develop their global leadership skills and understanding of the value of civic responsibility, diversity, and cross-cultural competency.

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OUR DEDICATED STUDENTS COMMIT TO:

  • Enrolling in a full academic course load, including one English course and one course in US or state history, US government, or civics.

  • Maintaining a minimum of a B average, with no grade lower than a C.

  • Joining at least one leadership or service club at school or in the community.

  • Performing at least 30 hours of community service.

  • Participating in International Education Week, a worldwide celebration of volunteerism and exchange.

Our students can’t wait to meet you!

READY TO START?

 

“This is our second year hosting, and we’ve been so fortunate to have bonded with our exchange students. We’ve learned so much about her country, culture, beliefs, and ideas. Embracing so many of the things that are important to her, we found commonality in our lives. And she has learned so much about the ‘typical Mid-West’ rural family.”

— Host Family