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Short Term Exchange Program

 

READY FOR THE SUMMER OF YOUR LIFE?

The Short Term Exchange Program (STEP) offers an unforgettable summer cultural exchange experience. You’ll live with a foreign student’s family for about a month, and then both of you return to Canada or the US, where your family hosts the exchange partner for another month.

In some cases, the hosting order may reverse, with the foreign student arriving first and both traveling overseas for the second month. For South American exchanges, hosting may occur between mid-November and mid-January.

STEP is ideal for students and families ready to embrace a shared summer adventure.

Eligibility

  • Age: 15–19 years (high school graduates are eligible).

Timeline

  • October: Local Rotary Club interviews.
  • December 15: Submit all application materials to the District STEP Coordinator.
  • April: Orientation for students and parents.
  • April–May: Exchange matches are finalized.

Travel

Travel arrangements are the responsibility of participating families and should ideally be managed through a travel agency for ease and reliability.
 

Finances

Participation in STEP is fully funded by students and their families. Estimated costs:

  • Program Fee: $300 USD / $400 CAD.
  • CISI Bolduc Medical Travel Insurance: ~$100 USD (through an approved Rotary provider).
  • Estimated Total Cost: ~$2,500 USD, plus incidental expenses during the exchange.

Countries

You’ll have the opportunity to select preferred countries from this list (availability may vary):

Belgium, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Czech Republic/Slovakia, Denmark, Finland/Estonia, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand.
 

Interested in applying?

Start your application at www.rye5020.org, where you’ll connect with a local participating Rotary Club.

Important Notes:

  • Not all areas have participating Rotary Clubs.
  • If you’re outside Rotary District 5020, apply with a Rotary Club in your home country or district.

Once assigned to a local Rotary Club, they’ll guide you through the application and interview process. Selected participants must complete the specialized STEP application by December 15.

 
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