CBYX Resources

The Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX) program, active since 1983, marks a milestone in citizen diplomacy. This program was established to fortify relationships between Germany and the United States, coinciding with the 300th anniversary of the first German immigration to America. The CBYX program is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the US Congress and the German Bundestag, along with the backing of the US Department of State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Winning participants can enjoy full scholarships, and to date, the program boasts over 29,000 alumni, many of whom have experienced life with German host families through YFU.

Each year YFU is proud to support 55 German CBYX students to host within the United States, and award 50 American students to study abroad in Germany on this prestigious full-ride scholarship program.

Hosting a CBYX Student

Hosting a CBYX student is similar to hosting any typical student here on a J1 educational visa. However, host families should be aware of a few additional requirements.

All of our host families must be vetted and approved after applying. They must pass a criminal background check, provide a bedroom with a traditional bed (air mattresses and futons are not allowed), transportation to and from school and school-related activities, a space to study, and three meals a day. They are also expected to provide basic parenting practices and accept the student as an integral part of the family.

CBYX students are required to complete 30 hours of community service, attend a week-long conference in Washington, DC, and give at least one presentation during International Education Week in November. Host parents are expected to support students’ completion of these requirements.