Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program

High schools for an exchange period, funded by the U.S. Department of State. It focuses on leadership development, cultural exchange, and gaining international experience, with placements in the United States for part of the academic year. The program is targeted at secondary/high school students and includes various country-specific eligibility requirements.

Round-trip airfare, orientation, host family placement, U.S. high school attendance, monthly stipend, medical coverage, program activities and materials

Applicants must be citizens of one of the YES participating countries, enrolled in secondary/high school, typically 15–17 years old at the start of the exchange, and demonstrate academic merit and English proficiency.

Country-specific initial application, English assessment, essay, interviews, and final selection; finalists complete medical, visa, and orientation steps