Exchange

Are you interested in learning a new language or meeting new people? Rotary Youth Exchange is the opportunity of a lifetime for the more than 8,000 students who participate each year. By sharing your own culture and embracing a new one, you help foster global understanding—and learn a great deal about yourself and your home country in the process.

Youth Exchange is a study-abroad opportunity for young people who spend anywhere from a few weeks to a full year as an international student hosted by local Rotary clubs.

Is an exchange right for me?

Exchanges are for people ages 15–19 who:Have demonstrated leadership in their school and community

Have demonstrated leadership in their school and communityAre flexible and willing to try new things

Are flexible and willing to try new thingsAre open to cultural differences

Are open to cultural differencesCan serve as an ambassador for their own country

Can serve as an ambassador for their own country

How much does it cost?

Costs vary from country to country. Local Rotary clubs generously host students and provide room and board with a host family and a small monthly stipend. Participants are generally responsible for:

Round-trip airfareInsurance

Round-trip airfare

InsuranceTravel documents (such as passports and visas)

Travel documents (such as passports and visas)

Spending money, additional travel, and tour fees

How can I apply?

Contact your local Rotary club to see if it participates and to learn more about the types of programs offered, and specific application process required. Because the selection and orientation process can be lengthy, we suggest you apply 6­–12 months before you plan to leave.

Can I host an exchange student?

Hosting an exchange student can be an incredibly rewarding experience for your family, providing an international experience without leaving home. Host families provide room and board and share their lives with exchange students, involving them in family, community, and cultural activities.