Rotary Youth Exchange: Explore the World

Are you ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime?  Rotary Youth Exchange offers high school and gap-year students the chance to learn a new language, experience a different culture, and make lifelong friendships. Each year, more than 8,000 students from around the world participate, creating a global network of young leaders committed to fostering international understanding.

By sharing your culture and embracing a new one, you’ll not only discover more about the world—you’ll also gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your home country.

 

What is Rotary Youth Exchange?

Rotary Youth Exchange is a study-abroad opportunity for high school and gap year students ages 15–19 who spend anywhere from a few weeks to a full year as international students hosted by local Rotary clubs.

Program Options:

  • Long-Term Exchange: Spend a full academic year living with host families and attending school in another country.

  • Short-Term Exchange: Enjoy a 3-8 week cultural exchange, usually during the summer, where you live with a host family and immerse yourself in a new culture.

👉 Explore Program Options

Is Youth Exchange Right for Me?

Youth Exchange is ideal for students ages 15-19 who:

  • Have demonstrated leadership in their school and community.
  • Are flexible and eager to try new things.
  • Are open-minded and curious about different cultures.
  • Can serve as an ambassador for their home country.

If this sounds like you, Youth Exchange may be your next big adventure!

How Much Does It Cost?

The cost of Youth Exchange varies by country, but Rotary clubs generously host students and provide:

  • Room and board with a host family.
  • A small monthly stipend for incidental expenses.

Participants are typically responsible for:

  • Round-trip airfare.
  • Insurance.
  • Travel documents (such as passports and visas).
  • Spending money, additional travel, and any tour fees.

How to Apply

Interested in applying? Contact Marc Friedman, District 5150 Youth Exchange Chair, or reach out to your local Rotary club to learn more about the programs available and the application process.

Application Deadlines:

Since the selection and orientation process can take time, we recommend applying 6–12 months before your intended departure date.

👉 Long-Term Exchange Application

👉 Short Term Exchange Application

Interested in Hosting an Exchange Student?

Hosting a Rotary exchange student is a rewarding experience that brings the world to your doorstep. As a host family, you’ll provide room and board while sharing your family life, community, and culture with a student from another country.

Why Host?

  • Build a lifelong connection with a student and their family.
  • Enrich your family’s understanding of different cultures.
  • Make a positive impact on a young person’s life.

To learn more about becoming a host family, contact Marc Friedman, District 5150 Youth Exchange Chair.

Additional Resources

The NAYEN website provides valuable information for both students and host families and serves as a model for our exchange programs.