Application Components

Applicant Information

The application forms for all NSLI-Y programs include sections to collect information about the student’s background, experience, and program/language preferences:

• About you
• Certify eligibility
• Activities and hobbies
• Internship, work, and jobs
• Special recognition or achievements
• International experience
• Language experience
• Program and duration preferences
• Statistical information (optional)

Written Portion

Applicants complete an introduction letter and 1 – 3 essays. The number of essays and their topics may vary depending on the program(s) you’re applying for. 

• Self-introduction letter
• Essay(s)
  • One essay to explain language preference(s) and interest in the program

Document Upload

Required documents for full application consideration: 

• Transcripts:
  • Can be official or unofficial; 
  • Must include all completed high school courses and current GPA; and 
  • Should be redacted according to application instructions.
• 9^th graders must submit their 9^th grade schedule and 8^th grade transcripts 

• Home-school students should submit the required forms found in the application.
• Applicants and all parent(s)/legal guardian(s) must sign the last page of the Terms and Conditions and upload it to the application.
  • Signed acknowledgment of Terms and Conditions

Supplemental Information

The applications for all NSLI-Y programs require a recommendation letter. The NSLI-Y application for study abroad programs also requires a parent/legal guardian statement.

Virtual NSLI-Y’s application does not require a Parent/Legal Guardian Statement.

The applicant enters contact information for the individuals providing these documents as part of their application submission. The individual receives an email notification with further instructions.

• ​Recommendation
  • Used to determine potential for being a successful NSLI-Y participant
  • Should be by a recommender who has known the applicant for at least two years and is not a middle school teacher
  • Cannot be written by a family member
• Parent/Legal Guardian Statement (study abroad programs only)
  • Not considered for applicant selection. This statement is reviewed during placement