YES Abroad Program

The Yes Abroad program is a U.S. Department of State initiative that provides high school students with the opportunity to study abroad in countries with significant Muslim populations.

“YES” stands for “Youth Exchange and Study.” The program aims to promote cross-cultural understanding, increase global awareness, and foster positive relationships between the United States and other countries.

The Yes Abroad program focuses on cultural exchange, academic learning, and community service. Selected students typically spend one academic year (approximately 10 months) living with a host family, attending a local school, and participating in various community activities. They have the chance to immerse themselves in the local culture, learn the language, and gain firsthand experiences of life in a different country.

Participating countries may vary from year to year, but some of countries under the Yes Abroad program include Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Morocco, Oman, Philippines, Senegal, Thailand, and Turkey.

The program covers various expenses, including travel, accommodation, meals, health insurance, and educational activities. It provides participants with comprehensive support and guidance throughout their exchange year.

The Yes Abroad program aims to foster mutual understanding and cultural exchange between young people from the United States and other nations, promoting dialogue, respect, and friendship. It offers a unique opportunity for high school students to broaden their horizons, develop intercultural skills, and make lasting connections in a global context.

The Yes Abroad Program is an incredible opportunity for high school students in the United States to immerse themselves in a foreign culture, develop intercultural skills, and gain a deeper understanding of global issues.

Who is Eligible for the Program?

To be eligible for the Yes Abroad Program, applicants must be:

• A U.S. citizen and must be in grades 9-12 (high school, including home school) at the time of application.

• You must meet age and GPA requirements specific to the program.

Must be born between December 30, 2004 – June 30, 2008.

• The YES Abroad program welcomes applications from all U.S. citizens regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, geographic location, socioeconomic status, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

• Applicants of all grade-point averages and academic performance are encouraged to apply.

How to Apply?

Visit the official website and fill out the application form

Benefits of the Yes Abroad Program:

Cultural Immersion: One of the primary benefits of the Yes Abroad Program is the opportunity for students to immerse themselves in a foreign culture. Participants live with host families, attend local schools, and engage in community activities, allowing them to develop a deep understanding of the host country’s customs, traditions, and way of life. This immersive experience fosters cultural sensitivity and broadens students’ global perspectives.

Language Acquisition: Another significant advantage of the Yes Abroad Program is the chance to develop language proficiency. By living in a foreign country, students are exposed to the language on a daily basis, improving their speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. Language learning is not limited to the classroom; students have ample opportunities to practice with their host families, peers, and community members.

Intercultural Competence: The Yes Abroad Program equips students with essential intercultural skills. Participants learn to navigate cultural differences, adapt to new environments, and communicate effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds. These skills are increasingly valuable in today’s interconnected world, enabling participants to become more tolerant, open-minded, and effective global citizens.

Personal Growth and Independence: Living in a foreign country without familiar surroundings challenges the participants to become more self-reliant, independent, and adaptable. They learn to solve problems, overcome obstacles, and develop resilience. These experiences foster personal growth, boost self-confidence of the participants.

Global Awareness and Understanding: The Yes Abroad Program encourages participants to explore global issues and develop a broader understanding of international relations. Through cultural activities, community engagement, and educational opportunities, students gain insights into global challenges such as environmental sustainability, human rights, and social justice. This firsthand experience encourages them to become active global citizens and make a positive impact on their communities back home.

The Yes Abroad Program is an exceptional opportunity for U.S. high school students to embark on a transformative international experience.