The YES Program 2025-26, initiated by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, aims to foster the growth and education of youth by collaborating with various partners. The Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program is specifically designed to inspire young individuals from different communities to innovate, embrace cultural exchange, learn, share knowledge, and grow.
The YES Exchange Program 2024-25 offers a unique opportunity for students, schools, educators, and communities from all across Pakistan, including remote and underprivileged areas, to enhance their educational and practical experience. Participants will immerse themselves in a year-long cultural exchange in the United States, learning about diverse cultures, ethics, and lifestyles.
Since its inception, the Kennedy-Lugar YES Program has produced over 1,453 alumni who have developed a deep respect for cultural diversity and serve as bridges of friendship between the USA and Pakistan. The YES scholarship program is committed to equal opportunities and does not discriminate based on race, religion, color, or gender. The program ensures students’ freedom to practice their religion, providing a truly inclusive environment.
This fully-funded exchange program, while offering immense benefits, does have specific age and policy restrictions. However, it is an invaluable opportunity for young individuals. The host families in the U.S. are carefully selected to ensure the students feel welcomed and supported, much like their own family. These families are actively involved in the students’ education and personal development.
YES Program 2025-26 Details:
- Host Country: United States of America
- Funded By: U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs
- Administered By: In Pakistan, the Society for International Education (SIE) in partnership with the U.S. Embassy and Public Affairs Office
- Duration: One year
Benefits:
- Full coverage of school tuition fees
- A monthly stipend of $200
- Visa processing fees paid by the YES program
- Boarding and lodging expenses covered
- Placement with a carefully selected foster family in the U.S.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be a Pakistani citizen residing in Pakistan
- Enrolled in secondary school (9th or 10th grade) or O’level 9th or 10th grade. O’level 11th grade students are not eligible
- Age between 15 and 17 years
- At least 60% marks in all major subjects for the past three years, including 60% in English
- Students who have previously traveled to the U.S. are not eligible to apply
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How to Apply:
- Visit www.yesprogram.pk and click the “YES Program” button
- Download the application by clicking “How to Apply” and follow the video instructions
- Print the forms and fill them out using a black ballpoint pen as per the videos
- Attach photocopies of mark sheets, school-attested documents, and identification
- Submit the completed application via courier to:
Society for International Education
88-H, P.E.C.H.S. Block-6, Karachi
Tel: 0333-2929960
Application Deadline:
- The last date to apply for the YES Program is October 21, 2024.