Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program for Indian High School Students
by U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA)
Fully Funded Exchange Program
Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program for Indian High School Students is a program by U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) for students in Grade 8 to 11, open to students across India. Registration closes 30 Nov 2026. It is free to take part.
Mode
In-Person
Eligibility
Grade 8 to 11
Fee
Free
Duration
10 to 11 months (one academic year)
Format
Individual
Time needed
Full-time academic and cultural immersion, including school attendance, host family engagement, and community service activities.
Key dates
- Registration opens
- 1 Sept 2026
- Registration closes
- 30 Nov 2026
- Dates
- 1 Aug 2027 to 31 May 2028
About this opportunity
The Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program is a prestigious scholarship initiative funded by the U.S. Department of State. Established in response to the events of September 11, 2001, the program aims to build bridges between the United States and countries with significant Muslim populations, including India, by promoting mutual understanding and respect. Since its launch in India in 2005, over 700 Indian students have successfully completed the program.
Participants in the YES Program spend an academic year (typically 10 to 11 months) in the United States. During this time, they live with carefully screened and selected American host families, attend local high schools, and engage in various community service and civic education activities. The program emphasizes cultural immersion, leadership development, and the exchange of cultural values. Students act as "youth ambassadors," sharing insights about their home country and culture while learning about American society and values.
The YES program is administered in partnership with the U.S. Department of State by a consortium of non-profit organizations, with AFS Intercultural Programs India managing the program locally in India in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy's Public Affairs Office. The selection process is highly competitive and merit-based, open to eligible Indian high school students at no cost.
This program is designed to provide a transformative experience, enabling students to develop global competencies, enhance their English language skills, and build a strong foundation for future academic and career pursuits. It also aims to create a lasting network of alumni who contribute to positive change in their communities upon their return to India.
Eligibility
- Grade level
- Grade 8 to 11
- Age range
- 15 to 17 years
- Location
- Nationwide
Academic requirement
Equivalent of a B average or better (no failing grades below 50%) during the last four consecutive academic years. Preference is given to students with 70% or higher.
Prerequisites
- Intermediate English proficiency
- Strong academic record (B average or 70% preferred)
Additional requirements
- Be a legal resident and citizen of India.
- Intermediate level English proficiency.
- Not have spent more than 90 days in the U.S. in the last five years.
- Meet U.S. J-1 visa eligibility requirements.
- Commitment to cultural immersion through a home-stay experience.
- Ability to meet cross-cultural challenges with maturity, humor, and an open mind.
- Plans for sharing their U.S. experience with their home school and community upon return.
- Must not have completed or graduated from any secondary school before the start of the program year.
Open to Indian citizens aged 15-17.7 years, enrolled in grades 8-11. Applicants need a strong academic record (B average or 70% preferred) and intermediate English proficiency. Family income must be below ₹5 lakh annually. Students with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Must not have spent over 90 days in the U.S. in the last five years and meet U.S. J-1 visa requirements.
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Academic details
Difficulty: Mixed Levels
What's covered
Participants attend an American high school, following their curriculum, and engage in community service and civic education activities. The curriculum will vary based on the host school but will provide a comprehensive U.S. high school experience. Students are encouraged to explore various subjects and extracurricular activities.
Rewards and recognition
Award
Fully Funded Scholarship
This is a fully funded scholarship covering round-trip airfare, U.S. visa fees, host family accommodation, school tuition, health insurance, and all program activities. Participants also receive a monthly stipend of approximately $200 for personal expenses.
Certificate
U.S. Dept. of State Certificate
Upon successful completion of the program, participants receive a prestigious certificate of completion from the U.S. Department of State, recognizing their role as youth ambassadors.
Recognized by
Opens doors to
Participation in this globally recognized U.S. Department of State program significantly strengthens applications to universities worldwide. The experience demonstrates maturity, adaptability, leadership, and a global perspective, making students highly competitive for admissions and scholarships.
Career pathways
Graduates join a prestigious global alumni network of the U.S. Department of State, providing valuable connections for future career opportunities in international affairs, business, and other fields. The cross-cultural and leadership skills gained are highly valued by employers.
Recognition
International Recognition
Skills your child builds
Languages
What your child will do
- Living with an American host family
- Attending an American high school
- Participating in community service projects
- Engaging in civic education activities
- Cultural enrichment activities
- Leadership-building workshops
Mentors & faculty
Participants receive support from trained local coordinators in their host communities and AFS staff.
How to apply
- 1Preliminary Application: Submit the online preliminary application form with required documents (school transcripts for the last three years, scanned passport/birth certificate, current photo).
- 2English Proficiency Exam and Proctored Essay: Pre-selected applicants take an English language test (ELTiS) and write a proctored essay.
- 3Full Application: Selected applicants complete the comprehensive YES program application.
- 4Interviews: Participate in group and individual in-person interviews.
- 5Final Selection: Finalists are chosen based on merit and overall suitability for the program.
- 6Pre-Departure Orientation: All finalists attend a mandatory orientation in India covering relevant topics for their year abroad, including cultural adjustment, safety, and program expectations.
- 7Arrival Orientation: Upon arrival in the U.S., students attend an orientation in Washington, D.C., with other YES students from various countries.
Fees & financial support
Fee details
The YES scholarship is a full scholarship, covering major costs. Applicants and their families incur minimal out-of-pocket costs related to obtaining a passport, required medical examinations and immunizations, and extra pocket money while on the program.
Financial support
The YES scholarship is a full scholarship that covers round-trip airfare from India to the United States, the cost of a pre-departure orientation, placement with a U.S. host family for 10 to 11 months, a modest monthly stipend, health insurance, and the cost of program activities and materials. This is a merit-based scholarship.
Refund policy
Not applicable as there is no program fee.
Frequently asked questions
What is the last date to register for Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program for Indian High School Students?
The registration deadline is 30 Nov 2026.
Is Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program for Indian High School Students free?
This opportunity is free to participate in.
Who can participate in Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program for Indian High School Students?
Students in Grade 8 to 11. Children aged 15 to 17.
What will my child gain from Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program for Indian High School Students?
Fully funded scholarship covering airfare, host family placement, and program activities.. Opportunity to live with an American host family and attend a U.S. high school for an academic year.. Development of essential leadership, cross-cultural, and communication skills.. Immersion in American culture and education system, fostering global understanding.. Receive a modest monthly stipend for personal expenses.. Comprehensive health insurance coverage during the program.. Become part of a global alumni network with opportunities for continued engagement and leadership.. Gain national-level recognition as a YES program participant from India.. Receive a certificate of completion from the U.S. Department of State and AFS Intercultural Programs India.. Fully funded scholarship for an academic year in the U.S..
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Organization
U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA)
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