Throughout the month of August, the Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) program welcomed over 900 high school students from 40 countries and territories to the United States for one academic year. The students are living with host families, attending American high schools, engaging in activities to learn about American society and values, acquiring leadership skills, and educating their host communities about their countries and cultures.

Arriving in the United States is often an exciting and overwhelming experience. In preparation for their exchange year, students complete a pre-departure orientation in their home countries. Before settling into their host families, which are located across the United States, the YES adventure begins with a three-day welcome orientation in Washington, D.C. Topics such as how to make a budget, what to expect in an American high school, and the cultural adjustment cycle are discussed.

On behalf of the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational & Cultural Affairs, the YES Consortium recruitment and placement organizations, and host communities, we would like to extend a warm welcome to the 2016-2017 YES students. We hope you have a life-changing year!

If you are interested in hosting a YES student in your home or at your school please visit the Host page for more information.