Programs:

The Group Study Exchange program of The Rotary Foundation of Rotary International is a unique cultural and vocational exchange opportunity for young business and professional men and women between the ages of 25 and 40 in the initial years of their professional life. During four to six weeks team members study the host country’s institutions and ways of life, discover their own vocations as practiced abroad, develop personal and professional relationships, and exchange ideas and opinions. Team members can come from corporations, small businesses, community organizations, medical and educational facilities, government offices, and nonprofit agencies.

GSE team member applicants must:
- be between the ages of 25 and 40, fully employed with at least two years of work experience in their chosen field;
- be in the early stages of their careers or professions;
- reside in or be employed in the sending Rotary district and also be citizens of the country in which they reside;
- be proficient in the language of the country being visited;
- be personable, articulate, cooperative, motivated team players, and enthusiastic about their vocations;
- seek to gain a maximum educational value from the program, as well as be able to fulfill the rigorous demands of international travel and active participation in an extensive itinerary.

The best candidates for GSE are rising leaders who meet the qualifications above and who have an interest in people of other cultures. GSE can be an excellent way to recognize top-performing staff or provide exposure for potential young leaders with limited international experience.

Spouses of participants may not accompany teams. In addition, the following are ineligible: a Rotarian; an employee of a Rotary club, district, other Rotary entity, or Rotary International; any Rotarian’s or Rotary employee’s spouse, ancestor (parent or grandparent by blood), lineal descendant (child or grandchild by blood and any legally adopted child); or a spouse of a lineal descendant.