Kennedy-Lugar YES Abroad
Program · U.S. Department of State · Countries with significant Muslim populations
Year-long exchange to countries such as Indonesia, Morocco, Senegal, Malaysia, and Bulgaria.
Our take
Fully funded year abroad, same family as NSLI-Y. Serious commitment, serious signal.
“Helps an application” is our read on how much an admissions reader is likely to weigh it: Strong means getting in or placing is a real achievement, Solid means it shows real interest and effort, and Light usually means most students who apply and pay can attend. It’s our opinion, not a ranking from any college, and a light one can still be a great summer.
The details
- Run by
- U.S. Department of State
- Type
- Program
- Format
- Residential, Countries with significant Muslim populations
- When
- During the school year, Academic year
- Who can apply
- 9th–11th grade
- How hard to get in
- Highly selective
- Cost
- Free
- Deadline
- Usually closes in December.
- Subjects
- Languages, Social Sciences, Service
Dates, costs and rules change every year. Check the official site before you apply. Last checked October 18, 2026.
Questions
Is Kennedy-Lugar YES Abroad worth it?
Fully funded year abroad, same family as NSLI-Y. Serious commitment, serious signal. On how much it helps a college application, we rate it strong.
How much does Kennedy-Lugar YES Abroad cost?
It’s free, or it pays you. Check the official site for this year’s price.
When is the Kennedy-Lugar YES Abroad deadline?
Usually closes in December. Exact dates change every year, so confirm on the official site.
Who can apply to Kennedy-Lugar YES Abroad?
Students in 9th–11th grade. It is highly selective.
Want a list picked for you?
Clarity Prep members get opportunities matched to their grade, interests and state in the app, plus a mentor who helps them decide what’s worth applying to and checks in every week until the applications are in.
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