About NSLI-Y

NSLI-Y is and will always be one of the most important developments of the formative years of my youth. The program inspired a never-ending desire to learn more about not only different languages and cultures but also the hopes and desires that connect us as human beings. - Tyler, NSLI-Y Arabic Alumnus
The U.S. Department of State’s National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y) program was launched in 2006 to promote critical language learning among American youth. The U.S. Department of State, in cooperation with American Councils for International Education, awards and administers merit-based scholarships to high school students for participation in summer and academic year immersion programs in locations where the eight NSLI-Y languages are spoken. NSLI-Y immerses participants in the cultural life of the host community, giving them formal and informal language practice and sparking a lifetime interest in foreign languages and cultures. Participants receive intensive language instruction, live with a host family for all or part of the program, and participate in a variety of cultural activities. For a sample daily schedule, click here.
Previous language study is not required. Students at all levels of language ability are invited to apply.
NSLI-Y is administered by American Councils for International Education in cooperation with AFS-USA, iEARN, American Cultural Exchange Service (ACES), AMIDEAST, CIEE, Russian American Foundation (RAF), Stony Brook University, University of Delaware, and University of Wisconsin Madison.
NSLI-Y Goals
The summer I spent in Jordan was the singularly most defining experience in my life. I've never been so challenged, transformed, and inspired as I was when I navigated the challenges and wonders of living abroad. - Julia, NSLI-Y Arabic Alumna
Questions? Need more info? Contact us at 866.790.2086 or nsliy@americancouncils.org
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