The Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Scholarship is a fully funded program sponsored by the U.S. Department of State in collaboration with the Kennedy-Lugar YES Program. It provides high school students from select countries with the opportunity to live and study in the United States for an academic year.
The program aims to promote cross-cultural understanding, leadership development, and global citizenship. If you are a motivated high school student looking to experience life in the USA, this scholarship is an excellent opportunity.
Apply Also: United States Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD)
Summary of the YES Scholarship 2025
- Scholarship Sponsor(s): U.S. Department of State
- Host Institution(s): Participating high schools in the USA.
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
- Scholarship Worth: Covers visa, flights, accommodation, monthly stipends, and training materials.
- Number of Awards: Several
- Study Level: High School
- Nationality: Open to students from select countries (check eligibility).
- Application Deadline: Varies by country (contact your local YES program office for details).
Program Details
The YES Scholarship provides:
- Full Funding: Covers all major expenses, including visa, airfare, accommodation, and monthly stipends.
- Academic Year in the USA: Spend one academic year studying at a U.S. high school.
- Cultural Exchange: Live with a host family and experience American culture firsthand.
- Leadership Development: Participate in workshops, community service, and leadership activities.
- Global Network: Join a diverse community of YES alumni from around the world.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the YES Scholarship 2025, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Age: Must be between 15 and 18 years old by the start of the program (August 15, 2025).
- Enrollment: Must be enrolled in a secondary school in an eligible country.
- Academic Performance: Must have completed JS3 class (or equivalent) by August 2025 and have the equivalent of a B average or better without failing grades.
- U.S. Travel History: Must not have spent more than 90 days in the U.S. in the last five years.
- Visa Eligibility: Must meet U.S. J-1 visa eligibility requirements (U.S. citizens are not eligible).
- Citizenship and Residency: Must be a citizen and resident of an eligible country.
Application Procedures
The YES Scholarship application process involves multiple rounds. Follow these steps to apply:
- Check Eligibility:
- Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria, including age, academic performance, and citizenship requirements.
- Prepare Required Documents:
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
- Personal statement or essay
- Complete the Application:
- Submit the YES program application through your local YES program office.
- Take an English proficiency exam and write a proctored essay as part of the application process.
- Participate in Interviews:
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited for group and individual in-person interviews.
- Deadline:
- Application deadlines vary by country. Contact your local YES program office for specific dates.
Apply Also: ASSIST Scholarship Program for International Students to Study in USA [Fully Funded]
Important Notes
- J-1 Visa: Participants will enter the USA on a J-1 exchange visitor visa, which requires them to return to their home country for at least two years after completing the program.
- Host Family: YES scholars live with American host families, providing a unique cultural immersion experience.
- Merit-Based Selection: Finalists are selected based on academic merit, leadership potential, and English proficiency.
Official Website
For more details about the YES Scholarship 2025, including the list of eligible countries and application guidelines, visit the official website:
YES Program
Why Apply for the YES Scholarship?
- Fully Funded Opportunity: Covers all major expenses, including visa, flights, accommodation, and stipends.
- Cultural Immersion: Live with a host family and experience American culture firsthand.
- Leadership Development: Participate in workshops, community service, and leadership activities.
- Global Network: Join a diverse community of YES alumni from around the world.
- Academic Enrichment: Study at a U.S. high school and gain international experience.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Start Early: Begin preparing your application well in advance to ensure you meet the deadline.
- Highlight Your Achievements: Showcase your academic excellence, leadership skills, and community involvement.
- Write a Compelling Essay: Use your personal statement to explain your motivation for participating in the program and how it aligns with your goals.
- Prepare for Interviews: Practice for group and individual interviews to confidently present your skills and experiences.
By applying for the YES Scholarship 2025, you can gain valuable international experience, enhance your leadership skills, and contribute to cross-cultural understanding. Don’t miss this opportunity to study in the USA and broaden your horizons!
