Countries

Mountain & Plains RYE currently exchanges with many different countries around the world. No matter what your tastes or interests, we probably have a country that will work for you. The country list changes from year to year, and we believe all of our partners offer excellent opportunities for a successful exchange. Approach this list with a curious, open mind. No matter where you might go, the adventure awaits. Long-term students will be asked to give us your top five country choices at our Selection event, after you have gone through our "Country Fair." Short-term students may request any country. Countries you have selected will be considered, but are not guaranteed, and any available alternative could be offered. 

Considerations

  • Most of our partner countries will not accommodate major dietary restrictions. If you are vegetarian, would you consider eating meat during your year abroad? If you have food allergies, are lactose intolerant or have religious dietary restrictions, these needs may be accommodated.
  • In some countries, you may be asked to remove any facial piercings. 
  • Some countries may offer language training, trips, or special events. Any optional activities will be at additional cost. 

Age Requirements

Most long-term students depart for their host countries in late July or August.  A student must be at least 15 ½ (15 years, 6 months) but not older than 18 by August 2025 to be eligible to participate in our 2025-26 RYE program. Some countries require students to be at least 16 upon arrival. Some countries will not accept students who have already graduated or will turn 18 during the exchange year.

 

Countries we have exchanged with since 2012:

Asia:

  • Japan
  • India
  • Taiwan
  • Thailand*

The Americas:

  • Argentina
  • Brazil
  • Chile
  • Colombia
  • Ecuador
  • Mexico*
  • Paraguay

Western Europe:

  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain

Northern/Germanic Europe:

  • Austria
  • Denmark
  • Finland
  • Germany
  • The Netherlands
  • Sweden*
  • Switzerland

Eastern Europe:

  • Czechia/Slovakia (combined Rotary district)
  • Hungary
  • Lithuania
  • Poland*
  • Romania

Exceptional exchange countries:

  • Turkey*
  • Venezuela
  • Zimbabwe

 * Eligible for Gap Year placement.

It is possible to add more partners to this list. They must be fully certified by Rotary International and have space to accommodate our participants in their program.