Rotary Youth Exchange Program

Rotary Youth Exchange builds peace one young person at a time.

The 1^st Rotary Youth Exchange (RYE) occurred in 1929 between the Rotary Club of Copenhagen and several European Countries.  In 1939, several Rotary Clubs in California and Latin America established an exchange program between their clubs.  The Youth Exchange program was formally adopted by Rotary International as a worthwhile endeavor in 1972.  Now Rotary Clubs in over 100 countries worldwide and approximately 10,000 students participate annually.

Students learn a new language, discover another culture, and truly become global citizens.
Exchanges for students ages 15-19 are sponsored by Rotary clubs in more than 100 countries.

What are the benefits?

Exchange students unlock their true potential to:

• Develop lifelong leadership skills,
• Learn a new language and culture,
• Build lasting friendships with young people from around the world,
• Become a global citizen.

How long do exchanges last?

Long-term exchanges last a full academic year, and students attend local schools and live with multiple host families.

What are the costs?

RYE is the most affordable Youth Exchange program out there as all our work is done by volunteers. Room and board are provided, as well as any school fees. The families of outbound students pay about $5500 for their child to go on an exchange.  This includes transportation, insurance, and other required fees.  There are the additional personal costs for:

• Passports
• Spending money and any additional travel or tours the student elects to take

How can I apply?

Candidates are ages 15-19 and are leaders in their schools and communities.  They are parents or grandparents may or may not be members of Rotary.  They are students that represents our best.

Contact our Rotary Club Chair to see what exchange opportunities are available and what the application process involves. Applications can be found on Rotary Youth Exchange Southeast.

Key Links for more information

Rotary International Youth Exchange               www.rotary.org/en/out-programs/youth-exchange

Rotary Youth Exchange Southeast                  ryese.org

RYESE SCHOLARSHIP FLYER