Our students are inspiring

“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 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 competitively selected. 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 participants of programs funded by the US Government 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 engage in activities to learn about US excellence in governance, business, and innovation.

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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 or Government.

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

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

  • Completing at least 30 hours of community engagement activities.

  • Making cultural presentations in their communities.

Our students can’t wait to meet you!

READY TO START?

  • Our FAQ page contains answers to commonly-asked questions about our students, our programs, and the hosting experience.

  • Submit an interest form to be contacted by a member of our team.

  • If you are ready to host, submit your Host Family Application today!

 

“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