NSLI-Y is a program of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, administered by American Councils for International Education, in cooperation with AFS-USA, iEARN, American Cultural Exchange Service (ACES), and AMIDEAST.


American Councils for International Education is the lead organization in the administration and implementation of NSLI-Y and manages the application and selection process, coordination and organization of program implementers, program-wide evaluation activities, and alumni activities. In addition, American Councils implements several overseas NSLI-Y programs and Virtual NSLI-Y. American Councils is a premier, international nonprofit creating educational opportunities that prepare individuals and institutions to succeed in an interconnected and increasingly interdependent world. Through academic exchanges, overseas language immersion, and educational development programs, American Councils designs and administers innovative programs that broaden individual perspectives, increase knowledge, and deepen understanding of our world.


AFS-USA is a NSLI-Y implementing organization and executes certain NSLI-Y administrative duties, including the coordination of NSLI-Y interviews for the selection process. Founded by volunteer ambulance drivers following WWII, AFS-USA is a non-profit international exchange organization for students and adults that operates in more than 50 countries. AFS-USA is sustained to this day by more than 5,000 volunteers in the U.S. and 44,000 internationally. AFS-USA works toward a more just and peaceful world by providing international and intercultural learning experiences to individuals, families, schools, and communities through a global volunteer partnership.


International Education and Resource Network (iEARN) is a NSLI-Y implementing organization and executes certain NSLI-Y administrative duties including the coordination of NSLI-Y Interactive, a virtual exchanges platform. iEARN is the world’s largest non-profit global network that enables teachers and youth to use the Internet and other technologies to collaborate on projects that enhance learning and make a difference in the world.


American Cultural Exchange Service (ACES) is a NSLI-Y implementing organization. American Cultural Exchange Service is a non-governmental, non-profit organization dedicated to international cultural, educational, and sports exchanges. ACES provides high quality international educational, cultural and sports exchange programs to people in the United States and around the world.


America-Mideast Educational and Training Services (AMIDEAST) is a NSLI-Y implementing organization. Amideast is a non-profit organization engaged in international education, training, and development activities in the Middle East and North Africa, including education abroad programs for American students interested in studying Arabic language and culture. Amideast programs and services touch the lives of half a million individuals a year – improving educational opportunities and quality, strengthening local institutions, and developing language and professional skills critical for success in the global economy.