KL YES Program in the USA 2025 | Kennedy Lugar Youth Exchange Program

Are you a high school student with a thirst for cultural exchange and a desire to build bridges between nations? Look no further than the Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) program, also called (KL YES Program) in the USA! Funded by the U.S. Department of State, YES offers a life-changing opportunity for students from countries with significant Muslim populations to live, study, and immerse themselves in American culture for an entire academic year.

Just like the SUSI Exchange Program, YES focuses on fostering mutual understanding and nurturing future leaders.

🔹What is the YES Program?

The KL YES Program is a prestigious scholarship program funded by the U.S. Department of State. It provides high school students with the opportunity to study abroad, immerse themselves in a new culture, and build lasting connections. These students are given the chance to:

• Live with a welcoming American host family: Experience American life firsthand by becoming part of a family and engaging in their daily routines.
• Attend a local high school: Immerse yourself in the American education system while forming friendships with local students.
• Participate in community service: Give back to the community and gain valuable social responsibility skills.
• Engage in cultural activities: Explore the diverse tapestry of American culture through excursions, events, and celebrations.

🔹Benefits of Participating in YES:

• Develop strong leadership skills: Through community engagement and program activities, you’ll hone your leadership qualities and gain confidence.
• Expand your worldview: Immerse yourself in a new culture, challenge your perspectives, and gain a broader understanding of the world.
• Sharpen your English language skills: Live in an English-speaking environment and receive continuous support to improve your fluency.
• Build lasting friendships: Connect with American peers and host families, creating lifelong bonds that bridge cultural divides.
• Become a youth ambassador: Upon returning home, share your experiences and promote cultural understanding within your community.

🔹Who is Eligible?

To be eligible for the KL YES program, you must be:

• A citizen of a participating country (check the official website below for the updated list).
• A high school student between the ages of 15 and 17.5.
• Be enrolled in 8th, 9th, 10th or 11th grade at the time of application
• Have the equivalent of a B average (60% and above) and no failing grades in the current year and past two years in any subjects;
• Not have spent a total of more than 90 days in the U.S. in the last five years;
• Meet U.S. J-1 visa eligibility requirements
• Demonstrated academic excellence.
• Strong English language skills.
• A commitment to cultural exchange and community service.

✅Read more about, how to write an effective Letter of recommendation.

✅How to Write Letter of Motivation | SOP Writing Click here.

🔹Application Deadline

Please note Y.E.S countries can have different recruitment timelines. Please check with your local Y.E.S office or their website to confirm your country’s timeline for Y.E.S recruitment.

🔹Official Website and Program Details

🔹Notice on Secondary School Completion

Applicants who have completed or graduated from any secondary school before the start of the 2025-26 program year are not eligible for a YES scholarship. This applies to all program countries.

🔹How to Apply?

The application process is competitive and requires various documents, essays, and interviews. The specific procedures may vary depending on your country. Here’s a starting point:

1. Visit the official YES Program website: Click here.
2. Check your country’s eligibility: See if your country is participating in the current year. Click here.
3. Explore partner organization websites: Partner organizations like AFS-USA often provide additional resources and application details.

The YES program is an extraordinary opportunity to challenge yourself, broaden your horizons, and become a bridge between cultures. If you’re a curious and ambitious student eager to make a difference, YES is the perfect platform to launch your journey as a global citizen.

🔹Tips to Increase Your Chances

1. Prepare Academically: Study for required tests (like language proficiency).
2. Get Involved Early: Join clubs and participate in extracurriculars.
3. Go Above and Beyond: Show commitment through volunteer work or leadership roles. Demonstrate passion and dedication.
4. Be Authentic: Highlight your unique qualities and experiences.
5. Write a Strong Statement: Your statement of purpose should clearly explain your interest in the program and how it will help you achieve your goals.

🔹Frequently asked questions (FAQs)