Welcome to Rotary Youth Exchange!
We are asking Rotary Clubs, high schools, counselors, teachers, and community partners throughout District 5580 to help us spread the word and identify students who may be interested in this incredible opportunity.
Who should consider applying?
We are looking for students who:
Are good students, generally in the top half of their class or with at least a 2.75 GPA
Will be between 15½ and 18½ years old at the time of departure (Aug 1, 2027)
Are open-minded, flexible, independent, and excited to experience another culture
Are willing to learn and live in a foreign language
Are prepared to spend a school year away from home and serve as an ambassador for their community and Rotary
Students do not need to be members of a Rotary family or have any previous connection to Rotary to apply.
The application and selection process begins this fall, with District interviews planned for early October. Final applications are due November 18, 2026.
Rotary Youth Exchange is also considerably more affordable than many other year-long exchange programs. A typical year is estimated at approximately $9,000, depending on airfare, country placement, insurance and personal spending. Limited scholarship assistance may also be available based on financial need.
Interested students and families can get started by completing the preliminary application at: https://forms.gle/tMptP7zS4ZQhjwjQ9, or by using the QR code below. Visit this site to learn more: https://rotary5580.org/sitepage/youth-exchange
We’ve attached additional information about the program, estimated costs, and the application timeline. Please feel free to share these materials with students, families, school staff, and anyone else who may know a great candidate.
Questions? I’d be happy to talk with students, parents, school staff, or Rotary Clubs about the program and application process.
Sam Evans
District 5580 Outbound Youth Exchange Coordinator
rotaryyeo@gmail.com
218-398-0063