Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study Program in Qatar

The Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program was established in October 2002, to provide scholarships for high school students (15-17 years) to spend up to one academic year in the U.S. Qatar joined the program in 2005. The program is vital to expanding communication between the people of the United States and its partner countries in the program, in order to promote mutual understanding and respect. Students live with a host family, attend a U.S. high school, engage in activities to learn about American society and values, acquire leadership skills, and help educate Americans about their countries and cultures.

Consult your high school for information about the YES TOWNHALL MEETING to be held in November

To be eligible, you must:

  • Have the equivalent of a B average or better without failing grades. If there are special circumstances, please explain on the application.
  • Demonstrate flexibility and a commitment to cross-cultural understanding.
  • Be at least 15 years old by August 1, 201 3 and not older than 18 by August 1, 201 3.
  • Entering grades 10 or 11 in Fall 201 3 if you meet above age requirement.
  • Be able to achieve a score of 50 on the SLEP English language proficiency test and pass the TOEFL, Jr. exam
  • Are nationals or permanent legal residents of Qatar.
  • Are not U.S. citizens or U.S. permanent residents, and were not born in the U.S.
  • The program is open to students with disabilities.
  • Must meet U.S. visa eligibility. 

YES program eligibility requirements reflect project goals and objectives set forth by the U.S. Department of State. Scholarship applicants will be evaluated on the basis of language skills, completion of the preliminary and full application along with the submission of other supporting documents, an interview panel, group activity participation, written essays, health forms and diversity. 1st/2nd quarter academic year transcripts must be submitted by February 2013 and July 2013. Certified copies of academic transcripts from the last three years are also required.

Each candidate’s application and supporting documents will be reviewed in Washington, DC before a status of finalist or alternate is confirmed. For further information contact:

Complete an AMIDEAST Preliminary YES Application on-line and send by e-mail to Qatar@amideast.org.Preliminary application deadline is December 15th 2012. Will not accept if mailed after December 15th 2012.

AMIDEAST:
P.O. Box 6458, Doha, State of Qatar
E-mail: Qatar@amideast.org
Tel (+974) 5590.2954

U.S. Embassy
Public Affairs Section – Doha
Tel: +(974) 488-4101, x6068.