I really wish to be accepted to this for the Arabic language program, but what would they look for in an applicant? And what was your experience like with this program? I think that I would consider myself a pretty good student, and I just love learning and school in general. I am also having my Spanish teacher write the letter of recommendation for me, so do you think that that is a good idea? Any replies whatsoever will be extremely helpful!
I am also applying for NSLI-Y for Arabic, but probably the academic year, although I’m finding it slightly disconcerting that while there seems to be a ton of posts about how great the summer programs are, there isn’t much about what the academic year programs are actually like; any input on that would be great!
And from what I have heard, it would be great to have a letter from a Spanish teacher, because even though that language won’t be your main focus, that teacher can still show that you have are talented at picking up languages, are organized, dedicated, etc.
Well goodluck with the application!!! and I chose the other teacher because my Spanish teacher is very “forgetful” and I absolutely do not trust her to take care of that letter… But hopefully we can both get in! 
@ictoaunrn I also applied for the year but in Korea and I’ve been having trouble finding people who studied abroad for the year also! I think it’s because the summer programs are more popular so there’s more spots so more people go and are talking about it. Also good luck to you all! I hope you get accepted! and do you guys know when we’ll find out if we make it to the semi-finalists? I’ve been hearing some different things but majority of people are saying December?
NSLI-Y was amazing. Honestly (and this sounds soooooooo cliche, but it changed my life. I would not be doing half the things I am doing know if I had not done NSLI_Y I would not be doing half the things I am doing today, no joke. NSLI-Y looks for passionate, driven, hardworking students who will get a lot out of the program. I did NSLI-Y Morocco and I loved it. The people were amazing, the classes were great (I loved my teacher) we traveled a ton, food was amazing)! For a more detailed description, you can check out my blog (as well as the links page to other blogs) which also has interview tips) voyagelemondee.■■■■■■■■■■■■■ If you want to message me with more specific questions, I can answer them as well!
The academic year is like the summer program, just longer. It also differs greatly from location to location. I have some friends who did the year program and loved it. If you want to email me, I can put you in contact with one of those people.