Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange & Study Program (YES)

Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange & Study Program, which is funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, provides scholarships for high school students (ages 15 to 18½) from more than 35 countries with significant Muslim populations to spend up to one academic year in the US. Students live with host families, attend high schools, engage in activities to learn about American society and values, acquire leadership skills, and help educate Americans about their countries and cultures. While on the program, students also have the opportunity to participate in prearranged leadership activities to develop and improve their leadership potential. For an American family, hosting a YES student is a rewarding and life changing experience.