With more than 270,000 program participants since 1951, YFU’s top priority continues to be student safety. The organization has built a time-tested management structure that emphasizes emergency preparedness and expeditious responses should an urgent situation arise. YFU worldwide adheres to rigorous standards ensuring that all students are placed in a safe, supportive, family environment. YFU has received listings in the Inbound (J-1) and Outbound categories for 2024-2025. This achievement reflects YFU’s global commitment to quality and consistent application of CSIET standards throughout the international YFU network.
Monitoring Global and Health Crises
On a daily basis, YFU monitors safety conditions issued through our partner offices overseas, the US Department of State, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and the World Health Organization (WHO).
In the event of a medical emergency, YFU has staff across the country and around the globe trained to respond quickly and appropriately.
Ensuring Safe Travel
YFU Travel arranges international and domestic flights and provides support for students in transit. YFU employs an Airport Assistance Staff stationed in 10 gateway airports to greet and assist students. YFU provides a 24-hour toll-free number for students to notify YFU staff of any changes or travel emergencies on the flight date.
Host families may sign up for the text/email/voice call alert system, which will inform Host families of changes (new airlines, flight number and/or arrival time) to their student’s travel itinerary. In addition, Host families may sign up for flight notices/delay services.
Ensuring a Safe Living Environment
YFU has rigorous standards for host family screening and selection, including in-home interviews, reference checks, and criminal background checks. YFU policy includes conducting participant orientation programs to educate both students and host families and ensuring monthly contact by trained Department of State certified representatives to supervise and support participants while they are on program.
Accreditation
YFU USA is evaluated annually and fully complies with the standards set forth by the Council on Standards for International Educational Travel (CSIET); YFU is pleased to be a sponsor in good standing with full listing in 2 categories (J-1 Inbound and Long-term Outbound) with the US Department of State J-1 Visa Designation Office.
Department of State Student Resources
U.S. host families, YFU international exchange students, and the public may report circumstances impacting students’ health, safety, and well-being during their exchange visitor program by calling 1.866.283.9090 or emailing jvisas@state.gov.
YFU requires all American students to register their travel with the Department of State before they go abroad and to make updates while on program. Please visit the Department of State web page at travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs to register. If your child does not have host family information yet, he or she can enter the YFU Office address.
