- Established in 1951
- Over 50 participating countries
- Non-profit student exchange program
- Offices worldwide
- Volunteer based
- Open to students aged 15 to 18
- Promotes world peace through global understanding
- Offers 24/7 support to students
Culture, Adventure and a new Understanding
Do something new. Do something different. Go Global. Live with a host family and learn first-hand what life is like in a different part of the world.
Get to know a new culture, nation, and language. Have the adventure of a lifetime. It's no secret that the world is out there. Experience it, with Youth for Understanding.
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History & Mission
Founded in 1951, Youth for Understanding was created to prepare young people for their responsibilities and opportunities in a changing, interdependent world.
With offices in over 50 countries worldwide, YFU has changed the lives of over 175 000 teenagers and families through international exchanges.
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supporting you the whole way
YFU offers students 24/7 support. With staff members and volunteers in both your home and host countries, you always have someone to rely on.
explore the world
Choose a summer or winter departure from one of our 50 countries available such as:
- Australia
- France
- Japan
- Denmark
student story
"My experience was one that can only be expressed as totally enriching! It was a major point in my life where I grew immensely as an individual."