Explore the World

Have you ever considered immersing yourself in another culture for an extended period of time? States’ 4-H Academic Year abroad programs allow high school students to expand their awareness of the world and themselves in a truly transformational manner. Unlike shorter exchanges, which offer brief glimpses into other cultures, Academic Year exchanges allow students to understand another culture on a deeper level; as a participant who lives with a local family and attends high school.

This immersion experience allows youth to develop their self-awareness and to consider their own world-view from a new perspective. Academic Year abroad programs allow students to grow their leadership skills, independence, initiative and ability to navigate new and challenging experiences on their own. Students return to the USA with a new appreciation for America and their host country.

Study abroad in high school is a unique experience that is different from summer exchanges or study abroad in college. Host families participating in this program welcome and nurture youth as they would their own children and they are therefore able to create a unique familial bond. Many high school exchange students learn something about themselves or the world that changes what they choose to study in college, and ultimately influences their future careers. This exchange is an amazing opportunity for youth who have already participated in a summer outbound exchange with States’ 4-H and are looking for their next international experience.

2024-2025 Academic Year Abroad Programs

Application & Payment Deadlines
• December 15, 2023: Application due to States’ 4-H
• January 15, 2024: Signed acceptance letter and non-refundable initial payment due
• April 1, 2024: Remaining balance of program fee due

Youth must apply through the 4-H program in their state to be considered for acceptance. Email ayp@states4h.org for more information.