How to Become a Rotary Exchange Student

1. Make certain you live in an area served by ESSEX, which includes the east coast of the United States, Bermuda and Quebec, Canada.
   • Find out here.
2. Participate in an interview with your local Rotary club.
   • Once you have contacted a club, an interview will be scheduled if the Rotary club feels you would be a good candidate for exchange.
3. Complete application once you hear from your local Rotary club.
   • After the interview, your club will inform you on whether you should complete an application.
   • Find the application here.
4. Participate in an interview with the district.
   • Once your application is complete, the district will conduct an interview with you and your parents.

The Rotary Exchange program is highly selective, so you should apply early — up to a year in advance of when you wish to leave. For example, for long-term exchanges, selection takes place in the fall prior to the year you will make your exchange. If you wish to travel abroad during your junior year, you should apply in September of your sophomore year.

Once you are selected, your sponsoring Rotary club and district will work to prepare you for your year away. You will be guided through a series of orientation sessions, preparing you for your exchange.

You will need to apply for insurance and purchase medical insurance and make travel arrangements through the approved ESSEX providers. Been accepted? Learn more.