Short-Term Exchange Program (STEP)

Rotary Youth Exchange builds peace one young person at a time.

Rotary’s Short-Term Exchange Program (STEP) presents opportunities for students to advance their knowledge and world understanding by allowing them to visit a different, non-English speaking country for a limited period of time. Participating students live with a matched host family in their selected country for 3 – 6 weeks in the summer under the sponsorship of a local Rotary Club.

The objective of the STEP Program is to foster world peace, international understanding, and goodwill by extending international communication through the exchange of high school students. It is our goal for these students to see first-hand the problems and accomplishments of people and their cultures and creeds.

Youth Exchange | Rotary International

What are the benefits of the STEP program?

Exchange students unlock their true potential to:

  • Develop lifelong leadership skills
  • Learn a new language and culture
  • Build lasting friendships with young people from around the world
  • Become a global citizen

How long do exchanges last?

Long-term exchanges last a full academic year, and students attend local schools and live with multiple host families.

Short-term exchanges last from several days to three months and are often structured as camps, tours, or homestays that take place when school is not in session.

What are the costs?

Room and board are provided, as well as any school fees. Each program varies, but students are usually responsible for:

  • Round-trip airfare
  • Travel insurance
  • Travel documents (such as passports and visas)
  • Spending money and any additional travel or tours

How can I apply?

Candidates are ages 15-19 and are leaders in their schools and communities. Contact your local Rotary Club to see what exchange opportunities are available and what the application process involves.

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