Ohio-Erie Rotary Youth Exchange Program, Inc.

The organization exchanges exclusively with other participating Rotary districts, which agree to comply with Rotary International’s high program requirements designed to provide a meaningful and safe cultural exchange for all students. Because all programs are staffed by volunteers committed to the youth exchange program, Rotary Youth Exchange is able to provide exchange at very affordable prices. Rotary’s Youth Exchange programs are rated as one of the highest in value. This is accomplished through the power and dedication of its volunteers. Rotarians throughout the fourteen districts of O-E, act as local coordinators who provide support on a local level. Coordinators interview and screen host families and supervise the program during the students’ stay. Area coordinators, as well as all parties concerned, are required to submit regular progress reports and closely monitor the activities and status of exchange students.

Academic Year Program – United States—International students ages 15 to 18.5 travel to the United States, attend school for ten months, and live with multiple, fully vetted and pre-approved U.S. host families. Students must complete an application in English, provide proof of English proficiency, submit transcripts indicating above-average grades, and write an autobiographical essay. Students are encouraged to take English, U.S. history, and geography classes at their high school prior to departure. Upon acceptance, students are required to attend several orientations, which address issues such as American culture, English language, program rules, and how to make the most of the U.S. high school experience. Upon arrival in the O-E multi-district, students attend additional orientations within their host district to review rules, local procedures and safety to prepare them for their academic year stay.

Depending on the final student destination and the option to purchase additional tour packages while on exchange, the total cost to the student will range from $5,000 – $8,000. This cost includes airfare, insurance and other incidental costs associated with exchange programs. Each student receives a monthly allowance from the hosting Rotary club.