Rotary Student Exchange

Rotary Youth Exchange builds peace one young person at a time.
Students learn a new language, discover another culture, and truly become global citizens. Exchanges for students 15 to 19 years old are sponsored by Rotary clubs in more than 100 countries.
 

What are the benefits?

Exchange students unlock their true potential to:
  • Develop lifelong leadership skills
  • Learn a new language and culture
  • Build lasting friendships with young people from around the world
  • Become a global citizen, building international peace and understanding
  • Be a student ambassador representing Canada to another country
 

How long do exchanges last?

Long-term exchanges last a full academic year, and students attend local schools and live with multiple host families. Countries that we exchange with vary from year to year, however each host club must adhere to the comprehensive, world class, youth protection policies (See below under “Youth Protection Policy”)
 
The youth exchange is also known as the “LONG” exchange as it is typically 10 months in duration.  The student would travel mid-August to end of August with the experience lasting September to end of June the next calendar year.  Depending on the country where the student is placed, schooling would be the typical academic year September to end of June.
 

How can I apply?

Candidates that are 15-19 years old and have a passion for service, building peace and good will should contact the Rotary Club of Edmonton at admin@edmontonrotary.com.
 

  • October 15th, 2025, information session – 7:00 PM, via zoom   send a note to 723Edwards@gmail.com to request zoom link - everyone welcome

  • October 24th, 2025 - application deadline

 
Application files:
Application information as of Sep 2025   (instructions for applying for 2026-2027 year)
 
High School Personal Reference form    (for reference from a school teacher to be submitted by the teacher)
 
Outbound Student Application form    (student application for 2026/27)
 
Completed forms to be sent to:  723Edwards@gmail.com 
 

Applications are accepted each year from September-October with student preparation following, from January-August. If you would like to join our Youth Exchange info session, please contact us to register for the October orientation and/or obtain Rotary Youth Exchange application form.  Note the parents or legal guardian(s) would also be included in the application.   A reference from the school counselor is also required along with high school transcript.

 

How can I get more information?

Rotary International has some brief information at:

https://www.rotary.org/en/our-programs/youth-exchanges

Grande Prairie Rotary club's Youth Exchange website has additional useful information, at:

 

Rotary Youth Protection Guide