A group learning experience
A Youth Exchange brings groups from different countries together for a short period to live and learn around a topic. It is not a school trip or funded tourism: the programme uses workshops, debates, role play, outdoor activities and reflection.
The method is non-formal education. There are learning intentions and clear objectives, but learning happens through participation, creation and exchange rather than lessons or exams.
Who organizes and who takes part
Organizations or informal groups prepare the project and apply for funding. Participants usually join through an organization in their country, which supports preparation and stays in contact before and after the activity.
Official guidance says Youth Exchanges are open to people aged 13–30 and last between 5 and 21 days, excluding travel. A specific call may narrow ages or countries according to the approved project. Kindra accounts are for people aged 18 or older.
- Check that your country of residence is included.
- Read activity and travel dates separately.
- Ask who your sending organization and contact person will be.
What a call should tell you
A clear call explains the topic, objectives, participant profile, tasks, accessibility, working language and project costs. It also identifies the responsible organization and gives a realistic deadline.
- Daily programme or methodology overview.
- Accommodation, meals, travel and reimbursement rules.
- Support, inclusion and emergency arrangements.
- Selection process and approximate response date.
After the exchange
Learning continues after you return. Evaluation, sharing results or a local follow-up activity are common. Youthpass helps identify and document the competences developed, so set aside time to reflect on them with the team.