Virtual NSLI-Y

The Virtual National Security Language Initiative for Youth (Virtual NSLI-Y), a program of the U.S. Department of State, offers U.S. high school students the opportunity to learn languages critical to national security through an engaging online experience.

This 10-week, beginner-level program combines language study with cultural exploration in an interactive virtual setting, following nationally recognized standards. Participants gain insights into the cultures of regions where the language is spoken, promoting intercultural understanding through activities designed around global competence.

Students join small virtual classrooms of about ten peers, meeting twice a week for 90-minute sessions led by experienced language teachers. The program is designed for true beginners, so no prior language experience is required.

Many Virtual NSLI-Y alumni successfully apply for NSLI-Y programs abroad or other international exchange programs. Participants often report increased confidence, interest, and readiness for international travel and cross-cultural experiences. Learn more about the program’s impact.

 

 

The Virtual NSLI-Y Fall 2025 application is now available! Click here to apply. 

Review answers to Frequently Asked Questions about Virtual NSLI-Y.

Download and share our Fall ’25 program flyer.

 

Virtual NSLI-Y was great and guided me on my Korean language learning journey. I was able to be immersed in an environment where other people my age had the same interest and motivation of learning the language. It pushed me to work harder toward my goals and become a better student! I met amazing people and was able to utilize what I learned!

-Ana, Virtual NSLI-Y Korean alum

Virtual NSLI-Y has greatly influenced my drive towards both my academic and future career goals. It has helped me not only expand my academic prowess but also heightened my confidence in what I can achieve in the future.

-Freya, Virtual NSLI-Y Turkish alum

Before partaking in NSLIY, I was unsure if I wanted to formally study language at University. Now, I am confident that I want to major in Russian Language and Literature!

-Megan, Virtual NSLI-Y Russian alum

The Virtual NSLI-Y program has provided me with a unique opportunity to connect with people from different parts of the world and learn from their experiences. Through our virtual classrooms and group discussions, I was able to engage in meaningful conversations about global issues, exchange ideas, and build relationships with fellow language learners and Arabic-speaking instructors.

-Uma, Virtual NSLI-Y Arabic alum

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Languages available for Beginner-Level Virtual Language Learning: Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), Korean, Russian, Turkish

Language Level Goal:  Novice Low.

This program is designed for true beginners, so no prior language-learning experience is necessary.

Cost:  Please refer to the FAQ for details on what the scholarship covers.

Duration: 10 weeks

Dates: Fall 2025 (Sept – Nov). See the Application + Timeline web page for details.

Eligibility: Please check the eligibility requirements on the Eligibility + Participation Requirements tab.

Schedule Options:

Virtual NSLI-Y applicants will be asked to rank preferences for the following schedule options:

  1. Mondays and Wednesdays: 6:30 – 8:00 PM Eastern Time
  2. Tuesdays and Thursdays: 7:00 – 8:30 PM Eastern Time
  3. Wednesdays: 6:30 – 8:00 PM Eastern Time and Saturdays: 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM Eastern Time
  4. Thursdays and Sundays: 7:30 – 9:00 PM Eastern Time

Please note that placement according to scheduling preferences is not guaranteed.

Program Format: 

While each virtual classroom is slightly different, participants can expect:

  • Conversation practice
  • Skits, roleplays, video entries, and projects
  • Cultural and language learning opportunities, featuring guests such as:
  • Experts on traditional arts and cuisine
  • NSLI-Y study abroad alumni
  • Government or private sector employees who use language and cultural skills in their careers
  • Peers or professionals from countries where the target language is spoken
  • Virtual tours of sites of historic or cultural significance
  • Videos related to cultural learning or grammatical concepts in the target language
  • Optional community-building activities like game nights, icebreakers, and supplementary information sessions
  • Homework, quizzes, and language assessments

Time Commitment:

Virtual NSLI-Y includes: 

  • 30 hours of formal, live instruction (90-minute sessions twice per week for 10 weeks)
  • 3 hours of pre-program prep
  • Up to 3 hours of homework each week
  • Optional community-building and cultural meetings

Questions? Please contact [email protected]