Each year, Rotary Youth Exchange provides about 8,000 young people the opportunity to experience the cultures, problems and accomplishments of people in other countries. Through this Rotary program, students are given the opportunity to grow as individuals while their concept of the world is growing too. Participants return with a broader view of the world and a deeper understanding of themselves.
When these young people become adults, many assume leadership roles in their communities and bring to these positions the benefits of and insights from their exchange experiences. As a result, Rotary's Youth Exchange program becomes a powerful force in the promotion of world understanding and peace.
Through Youth Exchange, Rotarians seek to provide the best possible environment for students. The program enjoys the advantages of over 30 years of experience and a network of more that 1.2 million Rotarians around the world. This experience and support system ensures the best possible exchange for participants in the program.
2 Different types of Youth Exchange Programs
Since 1927, students and host families all over the world have had their horizons broadened and their lives enriched by the generosity of Rotary's Youth Exchange program. Administered by Rotary clubs, districts and multidistrict groups, the program today involves more than 82 countries and over 8,000 students each year. The first documented exchanges date back to 1927, when the Rotary Club of Nice, France, initiated exchanges with European students. Exchanges between clubs in California, USA, and Latin American countries began in 1939, and exchange activities spread to the eastern United States in 1958. In 1972, the RI Board of Directors agreed to recommend Youth Exchange to clubs worldwide as a worthwhile international activity that promotes global peace and understanding.
There are two types of Youth Exchange Programs
- Long Term Youth Exchange Program
- Short Term Youth Exchange Program
Youth Exchange Destinations
Whilst exchanges can occur between any two countries in which there are Rotary clubs, in practice Malaysia maintains exchanges with about thirty countries. These include, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Norway, France, Belgium, India, Austria, Switzerland, Germany, Netherlands, Poland, Japan, Canada, USA, Mexico, Brazil and South Africa. Not all districts exchange with the same group of countries and options may change from year to year.
The final country of destination is decided by the district committee.
The student has the opportunity to nominate a preferred country of exchange available to that district. However, as there are limited places in any one country, a preparedness to accept an exchange in any of the other available countries is necessary.
How to apply
The Rotary Youth Exchange program is highly selective, so start planning as soon as possible. For long-term exchanges, apply nine to 12 months before you want to leave; for the short-term program, apply at least six months in advance of your departure. There are exceptions, but most exchanges to the southern hemisphere countries leave in January, while exchanges to the northern hemisphere countries leave in August.
For example, if you wish to travel when you’re in Form 4, you should apply in September of your Form 3 year.
The reason for the early deadlines? Most sponsor Rotary clubs and districts have an extensive selection and orientation process, which helps them identify the best candidates and prepare them well for their time as Youth Exchange students.
