YES Abroad for Americans
"I made a lot of really strong friendships with the Egyptians I met there and I am still in contact with many, many people…they left a very deep impression on me and left me with a new understanding of Egyptian youth.
—Ayah Kamel, U.S. to Egypt, 2007
Latest News: Adam’s Video Blog from Ghana
Say YES to the World!
In partnership with AFS Intercultural Programs and PAX, Program for Academic Exchange, YES Abroad is offering 35 full scholarships to American students ready to represent our culture in a Muslim country. Scholarships cover expenses for program fees, pre-departure and arrival orientations in Washington DC, secondary health insurance, and ensure careful placement with host families that, like you, are eager to share themselves with the world.
Participate in a year-long program in one of these countries:
Egypt
Ghana
India
Indonesia
Malaysia
Thailand
Turkey
Click HERE for country information!
YES Abroad students are blogging! Visit them via the links below:
Adam in Ghana
Bria in Egypt
Amber in Turkey
Flannery in Indonesia
Annah in India
Tyler in Malaysia
Justine in Ghana
Allyson in Thailand
Anne in Eygpt
Helen in India
Josh in Indonesia
Rebecca in Turkey
Austin in India
Sadie in Turkey
Featured Video: A day in the life of Ahmedabad, India
created by YES India alumna Nirali Machhar:
The Youth Exchange and Study Program (YES) is an innovative, year-long high school student exchange program funded by the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.
This public diplomacy initiative, authorized by Congress in the aftermath of September 11, builds bridges of international understanding between Americans and people in countries with significant Muslim populations.
“Be prepared to leave your heart in Ghana…the children are amazing, West African culture is one of the richest cultures in the world and Ghana is an incredibly beautiful country. Your life will be completely changed.”
—Jennie Wesp, U.S. to Ghana, 2004
Application and Eligibility:
The application process is now closed for the 2009-10 program cycle.
YES Abroad is open to all students who are U.S. citizens ages 15 to 18 with a minimum 3.0 GPA. As potential representatives of our nation and culture, we are seeking students with an eye on global issues, with a desire to understand diverse cultures and with the ability to expand their own boundaries by their courage, flexibility and quest for knowledge.
If you have any questions, please call us at 1-800-AFS-INFO and ask for Anna Sharp-Whitcomb, or email Anna at asharp-whitcomb@afs.org.
Awards were made to 35 students in March 2009.
For more information call: 1-800-AFS-INFO.
