About the Program
The Year That Will Make a World of Difference
This is an experience that can change your life. The Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange program is for motivated high school students who want to live with a host family and attend school for an academic year in Germany. Since 1983, this Congressionally funded youth exchange program has helped to prepare young people for living in a global society.
As a Congress-Bundestag scholarship recipient, you will gain first-hand experience of German life, including family, school, culture, recreation and much more. You will live with a carefully selected host family who will provide room, board and a caring home. Each day you will have the opportunity to learn and discover more about life in Germany.
The CBYX program has enabled more than 17,000 students to expand their global perspectives and make new friends. Students gain world views of current affairs and German social, economic and political life. Congress-Bundestag students are
youth ambassadors of the United States, sharing their life and culture with their German hosts and building greater understanding of the United States and its diversity.
An Accomplishment You'll Never Outgrow
As a student living abroad, you will be immersed in a different culture and new surroundings every day. With the support of the CBYX program administrators and your host family, you will have the opportunity to assert yourself, develop new interests and let curiosity take you in new directions. Now is the best time to become a true member of another culture.
The Excitement Begins Before You Leave
Before flying to Germany, students selected for the program will participate in various
pre-departure activities to meet other students and prepare for the year abroad. Upon arrival in Germany, you will begin language instruction and an intensive orientation that will introduce German customs and essential language skills. Excursions to select German cities will let you see the country while learning more about its people. When you return to the U.S., you will be given the opportunity to share your experiences through special presentations to classmates and other interested community groups.
Go For It
It is an honor to be selected to represent theUnited States in Germany. It means you have the maturity and interest to immerse yourself in all that a new school and culture can offer to your career and life choices. Finalists are selected based on many criteria. Academic merit is a factor, as are flexibility, curiosity, and desire to make a difference. German language skills are not a requirement. CBYX seeks students who represent the diversity of the United States. This program stresses equality and accessibility. Students of color and students with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Exciting Program Components
As a Congress-Bundestag scholar, your exchange year will include:
• Orientation programs in Washington D.C. and language instruction in Germany
• Meetings with German and American government officials
• Careful placement with a German host family
• Admission to a German high school
• Cultural and touring activities including excursions to select cities