Here is the process for applying to be a Rotary Youth Exchange Student.

1.  Plan

The Rotary Youth Exchange program is highly selective, so start planning as soon as possible.

    • For long-term exchanges (LTEP), apply in either the Spring or in September for exchanges beginning the following August
    • For the short-term program (STEP), also apply in the Spring or September for the following summer.
    • All District 5100 exchanges begin during the summer; there may be exceptions to the short-term program which can only be determined by the STEP coordinator. For example, if you wish to travel when you’re in 11th grade, you should apply in September of your 10th-grade year. The reason for the early deadlines? Our sponsor Rotary clubs and district has an extensive selection and orientation process, which helps us identify the best candidates and prepare you well for your time as Youth Exchange students.

2.  Contact Your Local Rotary Club

The Process Begins by Applying at your Local Rotary Club

    • Youth Exchange is administered locally by your local clubs. Chances are Rotary clubs near you are involved in the program: There are about 35 Rotary clubs in our District that participate in this program. There is probably one near you. Identify the club closest to you through our Club Locator. You may also contact the District Youth Exchange Committee.
    • District 5100 is a Club-Based Youth Exchange Program. This means that our local clubs maintain relationships with their local high school to provide students with the opportunity to apply for a youth exchange scholarship.
    • Club Applications come out at different times of the year, but mostly in either March or September.
    • Complete the Club Application. Each club has their own process for selecting their student(s).
    • Participate in the Local Club Interview
      • When the basic application is completed and submitted, work with your local Rotary Club to schedule an interview.
      • The club will hold interviews and select their candidate and perhaps one alternate for the Long Term Program. Short Term Program students will also be notified of their acceptance into the program.
      • Your parents/guardians will also be interviewed as part of the selection process.
      • If you pass that step, you’ll continue the application process by completing and submitting all of the other required forms and documents.
      • If you are chosen by your Club, you’ll then you will begin the District application process and Orientations.

3. Complete the District Youth Exchange Application

    • The District will host an application seminar for the students selected for LTEP and STEP in early October.
    • This event is optional, but HIGHLY recommended to ensure your application is complete and the process understood.
    • Refer to these documents to assist during the application process. If you were unable to attend the Application Seminar, please reach out to the District Outbound Coordinator to answer any questions and provide guidance.

4. District Interview

  • Usually before the end of the year, a member of the District Committee will contact you and your family to conduct an in-home interview.
  • This interview will take up to 3 hours as there is a lot of information to cover and questions to answer.
  • The family of the Outbound student will receive a family guide for reference during the student’s time in our program.