Youth Exchange
Join the Rotary Youth Exchange Program: Building World Peace One Student at a Time
Are you ready to help a high school student embark on a life-changing adventure? Rotary Youth Exchange (RYE) offers a unique opportunity for personal growth, cultural immersion, and global understanding.
Each year, thousands of teens live with host families, attend local schools, and immerse themselves in a new culture. This transformative experience boosts confidence, independence, and fosters a deeper understanding of the world. Students return home enriched, sharing their newfound perspectives with their communities.
Affordable and Volunteer-Driven
Unlike many exchange programs, Rotary Youth Exchange is run by Rotarian volunteers, making it significantly more affordable. Families are responsible for airfare, a required health/travel/liability insurance, visa, and an application fee, but savings on daily expenses help offset these costs.
Scholarship Opportunities
Our District offers a modest scholarship fund, created by Hal Malone, a former exchange student, to assist families in need. This fund can help cover part of the application fee and other expenses.
Eligibility and Application
Students must be between 15 and 18½ (19 for some countries) as of August 1 of their exchange year and can be children or grandchildren of Rotarians. Sponsorship by a District 7570 Rotary Club is required. There is no financial obligation for the club to sponsor an Outbound student, and approximately $1500 to host a long-term Inbound student.
The best time to begin planning for the coming school year is during the winter, but final applications can be submitted as late as May. Encourage your club and your student to contact our program at rye7570@gmail.com for more information.
Short-Term Exchange Program
We also offer a wonderful short-term exchange program during the summer months. For details, send an email to rye7570@gmail.com.
A Parent’s Testimonial
“Our sincere thanks…you have helped him grow not just as a young man or athlete, but overall, as a better person and human being.”
Help shape the future of our youth and promote global peace through the Rotary Youth Exchange Program.
