U.S. EMBASSY
Fully Funded U.S. YES Program 2027 Applications Open for Pakistani Students
full
- Fully funded by the U.S. GovernmentFunding
- ~15-17 years oldAge range
- Spring 2027 semesterProgram intake
- Founded 2002Program origin
- Pakistani citizens onlyNationality
- Attend U.S. high schoolsEducational experience
At a glance
full
Funding
—
Max amount
Sep 15, 2026
Deadline
Pakistan
Country
U.S. Embassy
Provider
The Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program offers a fully funded cultural and educational exchange opportunity for Pakistani high school students to spend a semester in the United States. Established by the U.S. Congress in October 2002, the program aims to foster long-term connections between young people from the U.S. and participating countries. Students live with American host families, attend U.S. high schools, and engage in various activities focused on leadership, culture, governance, business, and innovation. For the Spring 2027 semester, selected students will begin their program in January 2027. The U.S. government covers all program expenses, ensuring a comprehensive experience. This initiative reflects a commitment to promoting mutual understanding and developing future leaders through cross-cultural immersion. Each year, many Pakistani students apply for this highly sought-after program. Applicants must meet specific age and academic criteria, including maintaining at least 60% marks in major subjects. The application window typically opens well in advance of the program start, with a deadline usually in September of the preceding year. Treat the figures and dates here as estimates and confirm current-cycle details on the official website.
What's covered
- Tuition fees — All costs associated with attending a U.S. high school.
- Accommodation — Placement with an American host family.
- Travel — Round-trip airfare to and from the United States, including domestic travel within the U.S. as required by the program.
- Visa expenses — Support for obtaining the J-1 visa for the exchange program.
- Living allowance — A monthly stipend of ~USD 125 (est.) for personal expenses.
- Program activities — Participation in leadership, cultural, governance, business, and innovation-focused activities.
- Health insurance — Comprehensive health coverage throughout the program duration.
How to apply
The application process for the YES Program involves an initial online check, electronic form completion, and submission of a physical application package via post or courier.
- Visit the Official Website — Go to yesprogram.pk to check eligibility criteria and access the application portal.
- Complete Online Form — Fill out the application form electronically on the website.
- Print and Sign — Print the completed electronic form and sign it by hand.
- Gather Documents — Collect all required supporting documents, including academic records and an identity document.
- Submit via Post/Courier — Send the complete physical application package via post or courier to the Society for International Education address provided.
Eligibility
NationalityPakistani citizen residing in Pakistan. Dual nationals are not eligible.
Age15 to 17 years old on January 1, 2027 (born between January 1, 2010, and January 1, 2012).
Academic EnrollmentCurrently enrolled in 8th, 9th, or 10th grade in Pakistan (including O Level 9th or 10th graders). O Level 11th graders are ineligible.
Academic StandingAt least 60% marks in each of the past three academic years and at least 60% in major subjects (English, Mathematics, Sciences). No failing grades in the past three years. No gap year or repeated academic year.
English ProficiencyAbility to communicate effectively in English.
Travel HistoryMust not have previously traveled to the United States.
Family RelationsSiblings or children of YES alumni or Society for International Education/iEARN Pakistan project staff are not eligible.
Applicants must also meet J-1 visa requirements and must not graduate from secondary school before the program commences in January 2027.
Eligible countries
Pakistan
Deadlines
Spring Semester 20272026-09-15
Selection
Recipients are chosen through a rigorous, merit-based selection process. Incomplete, unsigned, or incorrectly submitted applications may not be considered. The process evaluates academic performance, English communication skills, and suitability for an international exchange program.
Verified sources
- Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program Official Websiteyesprogram.pkofficial
- Fully Funded U.S. YES Program 2027 Applications Open for Pakistani Studentstechjuice.pkannouncement
About the provider
The U.S. Embassy in Pakistan facilitates diplomatic relations and cultural exchange between the United States and Pakistan. It supports various programs, including the Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program, which was established by the U.S. Congress in 2002 to foster mutual understanding.
Frequently asked questions
Answers below are best-effort estimates from the most recent application cycle. Values marked ~ or (est.) may shift year-to-year — confirm specifics on the official scholarship page.
What is the Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program?
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The YES Program is a fully funded cultural exchange initiative by the U.S. government that allows Pakistani high school students to spend a semester in the United States, attending high school and participating in various developmental activities.
What does the YES Program cover?
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The program is fully funded and typically covers tuition fees, accommodation with a host family, round-trip international travel, visa expenses, a monthly living allowance of ~USD 125 (est.), participation in program activities, and health insurance.
What is the typical award value of the YES Program?
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As a fully funded program, the YES Program covers all major expenses, including tuition, accommodation, travel, and a stipend. The exact total monetary value varies based on individual placements and travel costs but generally covers all costs associated with the exchange semester.
Who is eligible to apply for the YES Program?
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Pakistani citizens aged 15-17 on January 1, 2027, currently enrolled in 8th, 9th, or 10th grade, with strong academic performance (at least 60% in major subjects), and effective English communication skills are eligible.
Which countries are eligible for this scholarship?
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Only citizens of Pakistan who are currently residing in Pakistan are eligible to apply for this program. Dual nationals are explicitly excluded.
Which study levels are eligible for the YES Program?
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The program is open to high school students currently enrolled in the 8th, 9th, or 10th grade (including O Level equivalents) in Pakistan. It is a certificate-level exchange program.
What is the application deadline for the upcoming cycle?
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The application deadline for the Spring Semester 2027 is September 15, 2026. Applicants must submit their complete physical application by this date.
How do I apply for the YES Program?
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Applicants should visit yesprogram.pk, complete the electronic application form, print and hand-sign it, gather all required documents, and then submit the entire package via post or courier to the Society for International Education.
What documents are required for the application?
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Required documents include the hand-signed application form, school-attested photocopies of final mark sheets for the past three academic years (2023-24, 2024-25, 2025-26), and a photocopy of a valid identity document such as a NADRA B-Form or birth certificate.
How are participants selected for the YES Program?
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Participants are selected through a rigorous, merit-based process. Key factors include academic performance, English proficiency, and eligibility requirements. Incomplete or incorrectly submitted applications will not be considered.
What is the duration of the program and is it renewable?
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The program typically lasts for one academic semester, starting in January. It is an exchange program and is not renewable for subsequent semesters.
Where can I confirm the most current details of the YES Program?
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For the most current and official details regarding the Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program, always refer to the official program website at yesprogram.pk.