Host High School Students

Table of Contents

• Learn about Hosting
• Start the Process
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Medallion Schools

Learn about Hosting

Expand your global perspective by hosting an international high school exchange student. Whether it’s for a few weeks or an academic year, you’ll share cultures and form bonds that last a lifetime.

These extraordinary young participants receive highly competitive, merit-based scholarships from the U.S. Department of State, to attend local high schools and live with families in communities across all 50 states. These exchange students participate in the Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX), Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX), and Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Programs.

Participants are expected to maintain a high level of academic performance, learn about American history and culture, and participate in community service. Volunteer host families support exchange students by providing a warm home environment, nutritious meals, and transportation to and from school activities.

Start the Process

To get started as a host family or school, please complete the interest form below and a local coordinator will reach out to you with more information.

Host a Student Interest Form

Muawi’s Family Answer your Frequently Asked Questions

Medallion Schools

Each year, almost 2,000 extraordinary young people from around the world receive a highly competitive U.S. Department of State-sponsored scholarship to live with host families and attend high school in the United States. These future leaders participate in the Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX), Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX), and Youth Exchange and Study (YES) programs. Host schools help build diplomatic bridges with other nations by leaving positive, lasting impressions of the United States on their exchange students.

By enrolling a U.S. Department of State-sponsored exchange student, high schools become Medallion Member Schools. These schools set themselves apart by demonstrating a commitment to academic and cultural enrichment for their students through international exchange. Medallion Member Schools may pair the official medallion with their school name and advertise on banners, newsletters, websites, signage, clothing designs, and more.

To access the official medallion, please contact your local placement organization.