Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program
Fully funded academic exchange program by the United States Department of State for high school students from countries of strategic importance to live and study in the U.S. for a spring semester.
Quick Facts
Status
Opening SoonFunding
Fully FundedDeadline
Varies - confirm on official site
Country
United StatesAbout the Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program
The Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) program is funded by the United States Department of State. It provides high school students from countries with significant Muslim populations and strategic importance the chance to live and study in the United States.
Participants spend a spring semester, spanning from January to June, immersed in American culture and education. The program aims to build lasting bridges between citizens of the United States and countries around the world.
Since its inception in 2003, the YES program has impacted over 15,000 participants. Students reside with American host families and attend local high schools while engaging in community service and leadership activities.
Eligible prospective students must select their specific home country from the participating list to access tailored application details. Participating countries include Bangladesh, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Kosovo, Malaysia, North Macedonia, and Pakistan.
Eligible Levels
Eligible Fields
Why Choose This Scholarship?
Fully funded by the United States Department of State
Join a network of over 15,000 program alumni since 2003
Experience direct immersion in American family and school life
Strengthen connections between the United States and your home country
What the Scholarship Covers
Studying in United States
Available only to high school students from specific participating countries, including Bangladesh, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Kosovo, Malaysia, North Macedonia, and Pakistan.
Eligibility Requirements
3 requirements
Documents Checklist
1 document required
How to Apply - Step by Step
Visit the official website and navigate to the countries section
Select your specific home country
Review local eligibility rules and application guidelines provided by the in-country partner organization
Submit the application form and required documents before the local deadline
Application Timeline
January to June 2027
Spring Semester Program
Duration of the study period in the United States
Insider Tips & Pro Tips
Check your specific home country page early because deadlines and requirements vary by region
Prepare for interviews and English proficiency tests if required by your local in-country coordinator
Engage with program alumni from your country to understand the application expectations
Important Links & Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questions - click any to expand
The program is funded by the United States Department of State.
Participants stay in the United States for a spring semester, which runs from January to June.
High school students from participating countries of strategic importance can apply. Prospective applicants must select their country on the official website to view exact criteria.
Ready to Apply?
Applications open Varies - confirm on official site - get your documents ready now.
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