The Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program for 2025-26 is a prestigious initiative of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, aimed at empowering young individuals from diverse backgrounds through educational and cultural exchanges. This fully-funded scholarship program invites high school students from Pakistan, including those from remote and underprivileged areas, to experience life in the United States for one academic year.
Program Overview:
The YES Program provides students with the opportunity to immerse themselves in American culture, learn about new ways of thinking, and foster mutual understanding between the U.S. and Pakistan. Since its inception in 2003, more than 1,453 Pakistani students have benefited from this program, becoming ambassadors of cultural diversity and building lasting friendships.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Host Country: United States of America
- Administered By: Society for International Education (SIE) in Pakistan in partnership with the U.S. Embassy.
- Duration: One academic year.
- Financial Coverage: Fully funded, covering:
- Round-trip airfare to the U.S.
- $200 monthly stipend
- U.S. visa processing fee
- Boarding, lodging, and school tuition in the U.S.
- Placement with a foster family
Eligibility Criteria:
To apply, students must:
- Be Pakistani citizens residing in Pakistan.
- Be currently enrolled in 9th or 10th grade or O’Level (11th graders are not eligible).
- Be aged between 15 and 17 years.
- Have a minimum of 60% marks in all subjects over the past three years.
- Be proficient in English with 60% marks in English in the last three years.
- Have never traveled to the U.S. previously.
- Students with disabilities are encouraged to apply if they meet the criteria.
Selection Process:
- Application Submission: Students must apply online through the official YES Program website. Applications should include photocopies of academic records and identification.
- Preliminary Application: Candidates submit the application and required documents by courier.
- Online Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online interview and asked to submit a medical form.
- English Proficiency Test & Interview: Selected students participate in an in-person interview, essay writing, and take an English language test.
- Final Selection: Successful candidates will be notified by the program director.
Deadline:
The last date to apply for the YES Program for the 2025-26 session is October 21, 2024.
This unique exchange program offers an incredible opportunity for Pakistani students to not only enhance their academic and cultural knowledge but also build connections with people from diverse backgrounds. Don’t miss the chance to experience life in the U.S. and become part of a global community through the YES Program!
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