Deepali Kannoujia bags prestigious US scholarship: Know all about the Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study programme

Deepali Kannoujia , a class X student, made headlines on Saturday with her selection for the prestigious US State Department's Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Programme. Speaking to TOI, Deepali shared that she is one of the 30 students selected from across India for this program.

"I had heard about the US from my teachers but never thought I would be there for my studies. It is a great opportunity for me," said Deepali, who will fly to the US on August 19.

What is the Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Programme?
The Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) program offers high school students from key countries the opportunity to spend an academic year in the United States. This program aims to further U.S. foreign policy goals by fostering civil society, developing youth leadership, and building enduring connections between Americans and participants from other nations.

Students apply for YES scholarships through a competitive, merit-based process. Once selected, participants live with American host families, attend local high schools, and take part in community service and civic education activities.

Who is Eligible to Apply for the YES Programme ?
The Youth Exchange and Study (YES) scholarship is a merit-based program offering a unique opportunity at no cost to eligible applicants who meet the following criteria:

• Age Requirement: Applicants must be between 15 and 17 years old, born between January 15, 2008, and August 15, 2010, by the program's start date (August 15, 2025).
• Current School Enrollment: Applicants must be enrolled in 8th, 9th, 10th, or 11th grade at the time of application.
• Academic Performance: A strong academic record is preferred, with a minimum of 70% in grades. Academic performance is evaluated over the past four consecutive school years (2021-22, 2022-23, 2023-24, and 2024-25). No failing grades (below 50%) are permitted during these years.
• English Proficiency: Intermediate level English skills are required.
• Students with Disabilities: Students with disabilities are encouraged to apply if they provide a Disability Certificate.
• Residency and Citizenship: Applicants must be legal residents and citizens of India.
• Family Income: The combined annual income of both parents or legal guardians must be below Rs. 5 lakh.
• Travel History: Preference is given to those who have not spent more than 90 days in the U.S. in the past five years or who have not visited the U.S. at all.
• Cultural Commitment: Applicants should be committed to cultural immersion through a home-stay experience in the United States.

What costs are covered under the YES Programme?
The YES scholarship covers costs related to:

• Round-trip airfare from your home country to the United States
• The cost of a Pre-Departure Orientation
• Placement with a U.S. host family for 10 to 11 months
• A modest monthly stipend
• Health insurance
• The cost of program activities and materials

Some costs that participants can expect to incur include:

• Costs associated with obtaining a passport
• Required medical examinations and immunizations
• Extra pocket money while on the program

What is the Application Process?
The YES application and selection process involves multiple rounds. All applicants are required to take an English proficiency exam, write a proctored essay, complete a YES program application, and participate in group and individual in-person interviews. Finalists are selected based on merit.

For more details check the official website at yesprograms.org.