District 5050 Youth Exchange

District 5050 is making a world of difference!  Our Rotary Clubs sponsor students to many countries around the world and provide them a life changing experience. Rotary Youth Exchange students will spend up to a year living with a few host families and attending school in a different country.

Students will learn a new way of living, a great deal about themselves, and maybe even a new language. They will also be an ambassador, teaching people they meet about our country, culture, and ideas. They can help bring the world closer – and make some good friends in the process.
More than 8,000 young people each year have experiences like these through Rotary Youth Exchange. It’s the opportunity of a lifetime!

If you are interested in becoming a Rotary Youth Exchange student, or are interested in hosting an exchange student in your home, contact a Rotary Club in your community. Students must be between the age of 15 and 17, six months prior to August departure.

Students
How do I qualify?
  • Above-average student with demonstrated leadership in your community
  • Open to new experiences and cultural differences
  • Sponsored by a local Rotary club
  • Completed written application and in-person interview
How much will it cost?
Youth Exchange is coordinated at the regional level by Rotary districts and at the local level by Rotary clubs. Costs can vary from one area to another and one country to another. Typically, participants and their parents cover the following expenses:
  • Round-trip airfare
  • Health and accident insurance
  • Travel documents
  • Clothing and other necessities
  • Spending money
  • Emergency funds for unpredicted expenses
  • Ancillary travel and tours
Sharing in the costs are host families (who pay for room and board), the host community (who cover school tuition and arrangements) and host Rotary club (who offer a small stipend of about US$100 monthly.
What are my responsibilities?
As a Youth Exchange student, you agree to:
  • Act as an ambassador for your home country
  • Abide by all program rules of your host Rotary club and district
  • Accept the supervision of the host family, club, and district
  • Ask questions of your host family and local Rotarians
  • Be an active participant in your exchange
Where will my exchange be?
Exchanges can take place in more than 150 countries and geographical areas. Please note, however, that the countries you visit depend on the exchanges that are available for that year. District 5050 has recently exchanged with Italy, France, Belgium, Austria, Switzerland, Denmark, Finland, Netherlands, Sweden, Germany, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Peru, Bolivia, India and Japan, and others are possible.  Contact your local club or district for more information. Locate the club nearest to you on the District 5050 home page under District Info.
I’m interested. How do I apply?
Youth Exchange is administered by Rotary clubs and districts. Contact Rotarians in your area to apply or Rotary District 5050 Youth Exchange Chair Greg Starup at gstarup@frontier.com
For More Information, Visit: Rotary Youth Exchange