How do I qualify?

• Above-average student with demonstrated leadership in the community
• Open to new experiences and cultural differences
• Sponsored by a local Rotary club
• Completed written application and in-person interview

How much will it cost?

Youth Exchange is coordinated at the regional level by Rotary districts and at the local level by Rotary clubs. Costs vary greatly from one area to another. Typically, students and their parents cover the following expenses:

• Round-trip airfare
• Health and accident insurance
• Travel documents
• Clothing and other necessities
• Spending money
• Emergency funds for unpredicted expenses
• Ancillary travel and tours

Students do not pay placement fees so those with financial constraints can share the exchange experience.

Sharing in the costs are host families (who pay for room and board), the host community (who cover school tuition and arrangements) and host Rotary club (who offer a small stipend of usually US $50-100 monthly.)

What are my responsibilities?

As a Youth Exchange student, you agree to

• Act as an ambassador for your home country
• Abide by all program rules of your host Rotary club and district
• Accept the supervision of the host family, club, and district
• Ask questions of your host family and local Rotarians
• Be an active participant in your exchange  

How to apply:  Start planning early.

The Rotary Youth Exchange program is highly selective, so start planning as soon as possible. For long-term exchanges, apply nine to 12 months before you want to leave; for the short-term program, apply at least six months in advance of your departure. There are exceptions, but exchanges to the southern hemisphere countries typically leave in January, while exchanges to the northern hemisphere countries leave in August. For example, if you wish to travel when you’re in 11th grade, you should apply in September of your 10th-grade year.

The reason for the early deadlines? There is an extensive selection and orientation process, which helps identify the best candidates and prepare them well for their time as Youth Exchange students.

Fill out an Application.

After you’ve gotten in touch with your local Rotary club or your district Youth Exchange chair, Rotarians will supply a preliminary application for you to fill out. If that application is accepted, candidates usually complete a full application, go through a series of interviews, and occasionally take a test.

Your district chair and local Rotary club will help guide you through the application and interview process.