Rotary District 6630 Youth Exchange Program
As a Rotary Youth Exchange student, you’ll spend up to a year living with host families and attending school in a different country.
Whether you participate in Rotary’s long-term or short-term Youth Exchange programs, you’ll learn a new way of living, a great deal about yourself, and maybe even a new language. You’ll also be an ambassador, teaching people you meet about your country, culture, and ideas. You can help bring the world closer – and make some good friends in the process.
For almost 100 years, students and host families have broadened their horizons through Rotary Youth Exchange. More than 80 countries and over 8,000 students each year participate in the program, which is administered at the regional level by Rotary districts and at the local level by Rotary clubs.
Your RYE Program Journey
Step 1: Apply & Get Sponsored
Students complete the application process and interview with their local Rotary club to be selected for Rotary Youth Exchange.
Step 2: Orientation & Preparation
Selected students attend orientations, training sessions, and cultural preparation events with District 6630 volunteers.
Step 3: Match & Host Family Assignment
Rotary pairs each student with a host club and host families in their destination country, finalizing travel and school arrangements.
Step 4: Departure & Arrival Abroad
Students travel to their host country, meet their host families, and begin integrating into a new community and school environment.
Step 5: Cultural Immersion & Growth
Throughout the exchange, students participate in local Rotary and community activities, develop language skills, and adapt to a new culture.
Step 6: Return &
Re-entry
After their exchange year, students return home, attend debriefing and re-entry sessions, and join the network of RYE alumni who share their global perspective with others.
-
Short Term Scholarships
The Short-Term Exchange Program offers a one-month family-to-family exchange that builds friendships and global awareness. Students live with a host family abroad, then welcome their exchange sibling to the U.S., experiencing both sides of cultural immersion. A perfect summer adventure for curious, confident, and globally-minded teens.
-
Long Term Scholarships
Experience life in another country through Rotary’s Youth Exchange Program. Spend up to a year abroad living with host families, attending school, and discovering new cultures. Develop independence, make lifelong friends, and become a young ambassador for peace and understanding.
-
Additional Resources
Rotary District 6630’s Youth Exchange Program gives students the opportunity to live and study abroad for up to a year, gaining new perspectives, lifelong friendships, and unforgettable experiences. Discover what it means to explore the world as a true global citizen. A quick reference sheet with key program details is available at the bottom of this page for easy access.
Quick Reference Resources
Access essential forms, guides, and resources for Rotary Youth Exchange students and counselors—all in one convenient place. Find everything from travel authorizations and insurance details to problem-solving tools and required program brochures.
Study Abroad Pre-Application 2026 - 2027
Short Term Scholarship Program
RYE STUDENT Calendar of Events
Resources and Links for YEOs, Counselors and Host Families
RYE Host Family Orientation Aug 24 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Students aged roughly 15–19 who demonstrate strong academic standing, leadership potential, and maturity are eligible. Applicants must also be sponsored by a local Rotary club.
-
A long-term exchange typically lasts a full academic year, during which the student attends school abroad and lives with one or more host families. A short-term exchange (often called STEP or summer family-to-family exchange) is shorter—usually a few weeks to a few months—and focuses on cultural immersion, homestay, and language exposure rather than full-time schooling abroad.
-
Typically, room and board, school fees (for long-term exchanges), and support from the host club are provided. Students and families should plan to cover round-trip airfare, travel insurance, passport and visa fees, and personal spending money while abroad.
