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Summer Outbound Exchange Students

What is the Short Term Exchange Program (STEP)?


--held in summer, hence the name "Short Term Exchange Program" (STEP)

--Three to four weeks each side of the exchange (the student from New York spends three to four weeks abroad, and returns with his/her exchange partner who stays here in New York for three to four weeks)

--Family-to-family exchange, with a simplified application process

--Current countries: Spain, France, Germany, Austria, The Netherlands,Sweden, Italy, England, Ireland, Switzerland

--Family must be willing to host

--Families must undergo background check and vetting per RI rules

--Cost: 2018: $225.00 application fee (students pay for travel and insurance and spending money).

--Students and parents receive Orientation training and students receive a Rotary Youth Exchange polo shirt.

Timeline and Calendar

Our Short Term ("summer") calendar begins with the start of the High School year in September, when we recruit students who would like the opportunity to engage in a shorter term exchange. Let's look at the timeline from applying to be a Short Term (STEP) exchange student.

Recruitment, Application, Selection, Training, Your Year and Return Home:

  • May through September - Begin recruiting students in their communities and schools for the next summer.
  • October 1 to February 1 - Applications are submitted to Rotary Club's YEO who will check the application for accuracy and completeness.
  • October 1 to February 1 -YEO will meet with student and family, perform home inspection and obtain reference checks. The Rotary Club may want to conduct a separate interview.
  • February 15 - Absolute deadline for for completion of application and Country selection must be submitted to the STEP Vice Chair for approval and signature.
  • February 15-March 31 - Applicants are "matched" with a student of similar age and gender in the desired Country.
  • May- Mandatory Orientation for students and parents. 2-3 hours, date and location to be determined.
  • April to June 2 - Students and Parents coordinate flights and schedules, obtain mandatory health and liability insurance. Proof of insurance must be provided to STEP Chair prior to commencement of exchange.
  • July- Exchanges begin! Students select whether exchange begins here in the USA or if our student travels abroad first.
  • August -Second leg of the exchange begins.
  • August 31--Exchange typically wraps up. Our District's student is expected to speak to the local Rotary Club who sponsored him/her and present on the exchange.