U.S. YES Program opens 2027 applications for Pakistani students

The U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Embassy in Pakistan have opened applications for the Spring 2027 semester of the Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) program. This fully funded initiative allows selected Pakistani high school students to live with American host families and attend U.S. high schools.

The program, established by the U.S. Congress in 2002, aims to foster long-term connections through educational and cultural exchange, focusing on leadership, governance, business, and innovation.

Eligible applicants must be Pakistani citizens residing in Pakistan, aged 15 to 17 as of January 1, 2027. Academic requirements include maintaining at least 60% in major subjects—such as English, Mathematics, and Sciences—over the last three academic years with no failing grades. The program is open to students in grades 8, 9, or 10, including eligible O Level students. Dual nationals, students who have previously traveled to the U.S., and those who have taken a gap year or repeated a year are ineligible.