The YES Program for Pakistani students is now accepting applications for 2025-26.
The YES Program is a study exchange program for Pakistani high school students. All eligible ninth and tenth graders in Pakistan can apply. This fully funded exchange program, sponsored by the Office of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) of the U.S. Department of State, provides scholarships for students to spend a year studying in the United States. The Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program offers a unique opportunity for students to experience American culture and education.
Funded by the U.S. Department of State, the YES Program allows high school students from 39 countries to attend American high schools and live with host families. Managed by a consortium of organizations led by American Councils, this fully funded exchange program covers all expenses, including airfare, accommodation, and tuition fees. Students don’t have to worry about the costs of studying abroad. They just need to check the eligibility criteria and apply. The YES Program aims to foster innovation, learning, cultural exchange, and leadership skills in young people from around the world.
Participants enroll in a full academic year in a U.S. high school, attending classes, labs, and extracurricular activities alongside American students. In addition to academics, YES participants engage in community service, civic education programs, youth leadership training, and other enrichment activities that provide a comprehensive understanding of American culture. They also serve as cultural ambassadors, helping Americans learn about their home countries.
Since 2003, the Kennedy-Lugar YES Program has provided fully funded scholarships to over 1,500 high school students from Pakistan. Don’t miss this chance to study in the United States! Apply for the YES Program and explore other international student exchange opportunities.
Details about the YES Program 2025-26:
- Duration: One year
- Country: United States
- Financial Coverage: Fully funded
- Application Deadline: October 21, 2024
Eligibility Criteria:
The YES Program 2025-26 is a fantastic opportunity for students who aspire to study in the USA. Before applying, make sure you meet the following eligibility criteria:
- You must have a cumulative grade point average of at least 60% in all subjects.
- Students must submit their final exam grade sheets once available.
- Applicants must be 15-17 years old.
- You must be a Pakistani high school student currently in 9th or 10th grade or enrolled in O Levels (O Level 11th graders are not eligible).
- You must have obtained a minimum of 60% in major subjects like Mathematics, Science, and English, and have maintained a 60% average over the past three academic years.
- Students who have taken a year off, repeated a year, or had a gap in their studies are not eligible.
- Proficiency in English is required.
- You must meet the eligibility requirements for a U.S. J-1 visa.
- Applicants must be citizens and permanent residents of Pakistan and have never traveled to the United States.
- Students with disabilities are encouraged to apply if they meet the eligibility criteria.
Benefits of the YES Program:
- Fully funded exchange program, covering all expenses.
- Round-trip airfare to the United States.
- A $200 monthly stipend.
- U.S. visa fee coverage.
- Placement with a host family for 10-11 months, including accommodation.
- School tuition, boarding, and lodging in the United States.
- Opportunities to connect with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds.
Additional Details:
- Applicants will be required to take an English proficiency test and write a proctored essay.
- The application process includes completing a preliminary form and attending an interview.
- Send photocopies of original documents (not originals) with the application, as they will not be returned.
- Selected students will be notified of the entry test via letters sent to the address provided in the application. Those who pass the test will be invited for an interview and a final application stage, including another English language proficiency test.
Application Process:
Wondering how to apply for the YES Program 2025? Below is the step-by-step application process for the YES Exchange Program in the USA:
STEP 1: Preliminary Application
- Students who meet the selection criteria and agree to the Parent-Student Agreement and General Rules are eligible to apply for the scholarship.
- Eligible students can obtain the Preliminary Application Form.
- Submit the completed form along with all required documents via courier or mail. Do not send any original documents, as they will not be returned. Only photocopies of the documents mentioned in the Preliminary Application should be submitted.
- NOTE: Students must download the application, print it, and send it via courier to the SIE Office, Karachi. Hand-delivered applications will not be accepted.
STEP 2: Online Interview
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online interview.
- Notifications will be sent via email.
- Ensure you submit your Medical Form (Form M) and any other required documents to proceed to the next stage.
STEP 3: YES Program Essays, Activities, and In-Person Interview
- After the online interview, selected candidates will participate in essay-writing tasks, group activities, and an in-person selection interview.
STEP 4: English Language Test
- Candidates who clear the interview will be required to take the English Language Proficiency Test (ELTiS).
STEP 5: Final Evaluation
- The final selection will be based on the test results, interview performance, the YES Final Application (with all required documents), and the ELTiS score.
- Semi-finalists will be notified through a letter from the Exchange Program Director.
- Regularly check the official website or Facebook page for updates and further information.
Application Deadline for YES 2025-2026:
- The deadline to apply for the YES Program 2025-2026 is October 21, 2024.
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