There is a single application for three U.S. Department of State programs: NSLI-Y, Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) Abroad, and Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Abroad. Applicants may apply and potentially be selected for more than one program but will only be able to accept one scholarship award. Learn about the difference between these three programs here

For some great tips on submitting your application, check out this guide.

Please note: if you are not able to complete the application online, you need to contact American Councils (nsliy@americancouncils.org) by October 20 to request accommodation.

Date Task Notes
August — September
2023		 Contact relevant adults in your life about the application • Parent/legal guardian statement
• Recommendation
• Transcript
October
2023		 Remind relevant adults in your life about the application • Parent/guardian statement
• Recommendation
• Transcript
October 20,
2023		 Deadline to request accommodation if unable to complete the application online Contact
nsliy@americancouncils.org
November 2,
2023, 4 PM EST		 Submit application no later than 4 PM EST on this date • Application
• Signed acknowledgment of
Terms and Conditions
• Transcript
November 9,
2023		 Confirm supplemental documents have been submitted • Parent/legal guardian statement
• Recommendation
December
2023		 Applicants receive updates on application status • Semi-finalists will receive medical evaluation form and information about the semi-finalist interview process
• Semi-finalists should apply for passports,
if needed
December
2023 —
February 2024		 Semi-finalists complete an interview Interviews are conducted via phone or videoconference, or in-person
February 23,
2024		 Submit medical evaluation form prior to this date Only required of semi-finalists
March — April
2024		 Semi-finalists receive final application notification Semi-finalists will be notified by 4/22/2024
April — June
2024		 Finalists complete
pre-program preparation		 • Finalists’ medical evaluation forms reviewed by medical professionals
• Finalists complete mandatory language preparation and assessments and pre-program surveys
• Finalists apply for visas, as needed by host location

Applicant Information

  • About you
  • Certify your eligibility
  • Activities and hobbies
  • Internship, paid work, and jobs
  • Awards, honors, and special recognition
  • Program or country preferences
  • Statistical information (optional)

Written Portion

Supplemental Documents – due November 2, 2023

  • Transcript
    • Must include all completed high school courses and current GPA. If you are in 9th grade, you must submit your 9th grade schedule and grade 8 report card/transcript.
    • Does not need to be an official transcript
    • If you are home-schooled, see the online application for which forms you need to submit.
  • Signed acknowledgment of Terms and Conditions
    • You and your parent(s)/legal guardian(s) need to sign the last page of the Terms and Conditions and upload it to your application.

Supplemental Documents – due November 9, 2023

  • Parent/Legal Guardian Statement
    • This will not impact your selection; it is reviewed during placement.
    • Click here for help writing the statement.
  • ​Recommendation
    • Used to determine motivation and promise as a NSLI-Y participant.
    • Click here to get writing tips for recommenders.