FY 2026 Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES)

The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) invites proposals for a cooperative agreement to implement the FY26 Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) program. This program seeks to bring up to 270 foreign high school students to the U.S. for an academic semester and optionally send up to 30 American students abroad. The initiative aims to foster mutual understanding, develop leadership skills, and strengthen U.S. foreign policy interests. Eligible applicants are U.S. not-for-profit organizations and educational institutions with at least four years of international exchange experience. The award is anticipated to be approximately $10,000,000 for a 15-month performance period. Proposals must include a detailed budget and a robust Performance Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) plan, adhering to specific guidelines and deadlines by May 26, 2026.

The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) invites proposals for the FY26 Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) program. This cooperative agreement seeks to implement a high school exchange, bringing up to 270 foreign students to the U.S. for an academic semester and optionally sending up to 30 American students abroad. The program aims to cultivate young leaders who support U.S. principles, focusing on entrepreneurship, civic engagement, and leadership, thereby advancing U.S. interests and strengthening global alliances. Eligible applicants are U.S. not-for-profit organizations and educational institutions with at least four years of international exchange experience. The award, anticipated to be $10 million, requires comprehensive proposals detailing overseas operations, host family placements, participant support, and a robust monitoring and evaluation plan using the MODE Framework. Applications are due by May 26, 2026.

The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) invites proposals for the FY26 Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) program. This cooperative agreement seeks to implement a high school exchange program for approximately 270 foreign students to study in the U.S. for an academic semester, living with host families, attending high school, and engaging in community service. Optionally, proposals may include a YES Abroad component for up to 30 American students to study overseas. The program aims to advance U.S. interests by cultivating young leaders who understand and support U.S. principles, with a focus on entrepreneurship, innovation, civic engagement, and leadership. Eligible applicants are U.S. not-for-profit organizations and educational institutions with at least four years of experience in international exchanges. The anticipated award amount is $10,000,000 for one award, with an application deadline of May 26, 2026. Substantial involvement from the Department of State in program activities is expected.

The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) invites proposals for the FY26 Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) program. This cooperative agreement, valued at approximately $10,000,000, seeks one organization to manage an academic semester exchange for up to 270 foreign high school students in the U.S., with an optional component for up to 30 American students to study abroad. The program aims to advance U.S. interests by fostering leadership, entrepreneurship, civic engagement, and cross-cultural understanding. Eligible applicants are U.S. not-for-profit organizations and educational institutions with at least four years of international exchange experience. Proposals must adhere to strict submission requirements, including a detailed budget and a performance monitoring and evaluation plan using the MODE Framework. The deadline for applications is May 26, 2026.