Our mission is your journey
The short-term Rotary Youth Exchange program offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture.
During this experience, you'll gain a second family, explore diverse ways of life, and discover new approaches to learning. Within three months, you'll forge lifelong friendships with people from corners of the world you never imagined!
Some Rotary Districts make all the contacts with their counterpart Rotarian, and the host family.
Other Rotary Districts make your placement with their counterpart Rotarian in your host country only.
In either case, they will provide you with information about how to contact the host family. Then, the two families can start negotiating: who travels first, which airlines to use, and what dates to travel.
LET'S get started!
As with many things in life, there is a step-by-step process to ensure everything is arranged efficiently. Be sure to read through all the details of the Short-Term Exchange program to understand the specifics!
Passport:
To travel internationally, you must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond your trip. Additionally, at least one of your legal guardians should also have a valid passport.
Don’t have a passport? Apply NOW!
USA link: Travel.State.gov
Canadian link: CIC Passports
Short-term Travel Form:
Once you’ve made contact with your host family, both you and your counterpart have obtained passports, and you’ve settled on ideal travel dates and airports, you’ll be ready to register on The World. — see bottom of page.
Legal Entry for Host Country:
For most short-term exchanges, the "visa waiver" program will suffice for entry into your host country. However, for Australia, Brazil, and India, US citizens will need to apply for a "tourist visa." IYWT will guide you through the application process with step-by-step instructions.
Documentation:
Typically, you will need two documents: A valid passport and a completed parent permission form. IYWT will provide the permission form, which should be completed two weeks before your planned departure.
Scanning:
Be sure to scan documents using a real scanner. Scans from phone apps are not acceptable!
Itinerary:
To ensure a smooth and coordinated exchange, IYWT will assist in arranging flights for you and your counterpart to travel together.
Preparing for Travel:
Don’t forget to share your travel itinerary with the Rotarians from your Sponsoring Rotary Club and those in your Host Country to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Don't worry! It's Your World—Travel! agents will coach you through the preparations for all these things step-by-step. We will nag you to get things done, give you advice about safe travel, and alert you to any changes and challenges we learn about during your time abroad.
How to register on The World:
Read the instructions on the first panel about registrations and passwords.
Choose the blue link for Short-Term Student Registration
Read the pop-up message, which describes the STEP process.
Choose between “I need more information” and “I’m Ready!” to proceed.