Rotary Youth Exchange Program

Study Abroad. Discover Yourself. Change the World.

Rotary Youth Exchange (RYE) is more than just a study abroad program — it’s a life-changing leadership journey. Sponsored by Rotary Clubs in District 6920 and across the globe, RYE offers high school students ages 15–18 the opportunity to live and study in another country for an academic year, while building lifelong leadership skills, cultural understanding, and global citizenship.

Whether you’re from Savannah, Macon, Augusta, or Valdosta, and everywhere in between, Rotary Youth Exchange connects students in Southeast Georgia to a world of opportunity.

What Is Rotary Youth Exchange?

Rotary Youth Exchange began in 1929 as a cultural bridge between students in Copenhagen and other European nations. By 1972, Rotary International officially adopted Youth Exchange as one of its premier global programs. Today, more than 10,000 students from over 100 countries participate annually.

Through our multi-district  — Rotary Youth Exchange Southeast (RYESE) — District 6920 students are placed with trusted Rotary host families in countries such as Japan, Belgium, Brazil, Spain, Italy, Germany, and many more.

Why Participate?

Students who participate in Rotary Youth Exchange:

🌍 Become Global Citizens by experiencing new cultures firsthand

🗣️ Learn a New Language through full immersion in everyday life

🎓 Gain Confidence and Independence by living away from home

🤝 Build Lifelong Friendships across cultures and continents

🧭 Stand Out in College Applications and future career paths

“Exchange isn’t a year in your life — it’s a life in a year.”

How Long Is the Program?

The long-term exchange is a full academic year, during which students:

• • Attend a local high school in their host country
  • Live with 2–3 vetted host families
  • Are supported by both a local Rotary Club abroad and District 6920 back home
  • Participate in cultural and service activities as part of their host community

What Does It Cost?

Rotary Youth Exchange is one of the most affordable international exchange programs available, thanks to Rotary’s volunteer-led model.

For the 2026–2027 academic year, the total estimated cost is $6,000.

This includes:

• Orientation sessions
• Health and travel insurance
• Round-trip airfare
• Emergency support services

Rotary and host families provide:

• Room and board abroad
• School placement
• Caring, vetted host families and club support

Additional out-of-pocket costs may include:

• Passport and Visa fees
• Spending money
• Optional tours or travel during exchange

Who Should Apply?

We’re looking for students who are:

• Ages 15–18 at the time of departure
• Open-minded, adaptable, and curious
• Leaders in their school, community, or clubs
• Ready to embrace a new culture and language

If you’re ready for an international adventure, we want to hear from you.

How to Apply

Applications open in August 15^th for the following academic year.

1. Start with your local Rotary Club — each club sponsors students from their area
2. Visit ryese.org for full application details
3. Attend a local info session or contact your District 6920 RYE Chair
4. Interviews and selection happen in fall; orientation begins in January.

Want help connecting with your local club?
Email us at dpark@ryese.org.

If you’re dreaming about more than your hometown

— if you want to grow, lead, and explore —

Rotary Youth Exchange Southeast can take you there.

Let this be the year you say yes to the world.