Are you ready to broaden your horizons and experience the world? Rotary offers several exchange programs for different ages and interests. Whether you dream of a whole exchange year, an intense summer experience or an international camp, there is a program for you.
One-year exchange
Live and study in another country for a whole school year. You live with one or more host families and attend a local school – a deep insight into a new culture.
Suits: 15–18 years, curious and ready for a big challenge.
Length: about 10–12 months.
Summer exchange
For you who want to experience a new culture but can't be away for a whole year. You stay with a host family for a few weeks while their young person stays with your family in Sweden.
Suits: you who want a shorter, intense experience.
Length: a few weeks up to three months.
International camps
Camps that bring together young people from different countries around a theme – adventure, culture, language, sport. An exciting way to meet new friends in an organised setting.
Suits: everyone aged 15–24.
Length: varies, contact us for more information.
Your safety and growth in focus
Choosing Rotary for your exchange brings a range of unique benefits built on Rotary’s global presence and volunteer commitment:
- Safety through the network – your exchange is organised safely through Rotary’s worldwide network. You always have committed adults, so-called contact people, from the local Rotary club on site in your host country.
- Affordable exchange – thanks to the voluntary work, we can offer an exchange at a considerably lower program fee than many commercial organisations. It’s Rotary’s way of making international experiences accessible to more people.
- Personal support – you receive continuous support and care both from your host family and from dedicated, trained volunteers from your host club.
- Live with several host families – during a year-long exchange you usually live with 2–4 host families, which gives a broader insight into different sides of the culture and society.
- At home in the world – with Rotary’s global network you quickly feel at home wherever you are, and gain access to a network that is valuable both during and after the exchange year.
- The Rotary blazer – as an exchange student you receive the iconic Rotary blazer, a symbol that you belong to a global community of exchange students.
- Trips and experiences – many host countries organise trips and gatherings for international exchange students, a chance to discover more of your host country and create memories for life.
An exchange that builds peace and mutual understanding
Rotary Youth Exchange is not just about going to school in another country. It is a program that promotes cultural exchange and international understanding. By immersing yourself in another culture, sharing your own and forming friendships across borders, you actively contribute to Rotary’s global work for peace.
The program is run for non-profit reasons, based on the conviction that international exchanges can change perspectives and contribute to a better world. This commitment without financial profit motive guarantees that your exchange year focuses on your growth and experience.
After the exchange year – lifelong connections and opportunities
Your exchange year with Rotary is just the beginning. Many former exchange students stay involved in the Rotary community, for example through Rotex (the organisation for former exchange students) or Rotaract (Rotary’s organisation for young adults). You can share your experiences, support future exchange students and continue to be part of a global network of like-minded people.
Choose Rotary for an exchange year that gives you memories for life, new perspectives and a global network that lasts. We look forward to welcoming you to our global family!