Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange in Germany

Program Components
As a Congress-Bundestag scholar, your exchange year will include:
  • Placement with a carefully selected German host family
  • Admission to a German high school
  • Pre-departure training in the United States and orientation programs in Germany
  • Meetings with government officials
  • Cultural excursions to the German Bundestag and select German cities
  • Supplementary language lessons upon arrival in your host community
Participants will be responsible for the following costs:
  • Domestic transportation to and from the international gateway city
  • Spending money for personal use
  • Costs associated with obtaining a passport in a timely manner
  • Costs associated with obtaining a German residence permit, or visa, as applicable

Why Apply to Become a Congress-Bundestag Scholar?

Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX) is for motivated high school students who want to experience a culture and learn a language through a full immersion experience. Earn a competitive edge for your college applications. Learn about German culture first-hand by living with a host family and attending a German high school. Connect to an elite network of U.S. Department of State program alumni. Embark on an adventure that is unlike any other.

As a CBYX participant, you will gain new perspectives on global current affairs and German social, economic and political life. You will learn the German language through immersion in the culture at school and at home. When you return after approximately 10 months abroad, you will have a greater sense of independence, empowerment, and global citizenry. You will make friendships through a shared experience that will last a lifetime, and you will become a true member of another culture.

How do I know if it’s right for me?

CBYX participants come from diverse backgrounds from all across the United States. Academic merit, as well as motivation, curiosity and flexibility are key components to a competitive application. Previous German language experience is not required. CBYX is dedicated to selecting students who represent the diversity of the United States. The program stresses equality and accessibility, and specifically encourages students of color and students with disabilities to apply. See application and selection for more details regarding eligibility.

What is the history of the CBYX Program?

Initiated in 1983, Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange was created to strengthen ties between Germany and the United States through citizen diplomacy. The program was founded in celebration of the 300th year anniversary of the first German immigration to the United States. CBYX is jointly funded by the U.S. Congress and the German Bundestag, and in the U.S. is overseen by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Over 24,000 students have prepared themselves for success in an increasingly global world by participating in the CBYX program.

 

More information

http://www.usagermanyscholarship.org/about