The National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y) is a U.S. Department of State merit-based scholarship program for U.S. high school students to study critical languages abroad in an immersive environment. The NSLI-Y academic year program is 8-10 months long. It offers language instruction and a variety of cultural, community, and project-based activities designed to enhance language skills. Students are enrolled in language classes at a local school or post-secondary institution and receive at least 10 hours of intensive language instruction per week. They may also have the opportunity to take other academic or enrichment classes in the target language. Beyond the classroom, there are opportunities for cultural, extracurricular, and volunteering activities throughout the year. NSLI-Y academic year abroad participants live with host families for the duration of the program or combined with a supervised dormitory stay. No prior language learning experience is required for participation. NSLI-Y academic year programs support multiple language levels but cannot accommodate students at Advanced-Mid or higher proficiency levels. Applicants may be subject to language testing prior to receiving a scholarship offer to verify eligibility. Many NSLI-Y academic year program alumni participate successfully in other language learning and cultural exchange programs and continue to use their target language in their academic and professional careers and home community. Learn more about the program’s impact.

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