Kennedy-Lugar YES Scholarship 2027 in USA | Fully Funded
The Kennedy-Lugar YES Scholarship 2027 offers fully funded high school exchange opportunities in the USA, covering airfare, tuition, housing, and cultural activities.
Overview
The Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program offers eligible high school students the opportunity to spend an academic year in the United States. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, participants attend a local high school, reside with a host family, and engage in cultural exchange, community service, and leadership development activities.
Benefits
- Round-trip international airfare
- Local school tuition
- Boarding and lodging with a host family
- Monthly living stipend
- Program-related support and health insurance
- Educational, cultural, and leadership development activities
Eligibility
- Must be a citizen and resident of a participating country
- Must typically be 15–17 years old by January 1, 2027 (age rules vary by country)
- Must be enrolled in secondary school (typically 8th, 9th, or 10th grade, or eligible O-Level classes)
- Generally required to maintain at least 60% in each academic year, including English, Mathematics, and Sciences
- Must not have failing grades or a gap/repeated academic year in the previous three years
How to Apply
Interested students must follow country-specific guidelines and complete the application process through official channels:
- Visit the official YES Program website to check local country announcements and specific instructions.
- Verify all eligibility requirements, including citizenship, age, and academic standing.
- Complete the official application form and submit necessary documents, such as academic records and essays.
- Participate in required selection stages, which may include English proficiency tests, proctored essays, and interviews.
Deadline
Application deadlines vary depending on the participating country. For several country announcements, applications are due by 15 September 2026. Applicants should verify local timelines directly on the official program website.