Hi! I figured that I would start this as applications are open and due in less than 2 months. If there are any alumnae that would like to comment on this and talk about their experience and the application process, I would really appreciate it! I’m currently a senior and applying for Korean academic year as my first choice and Mandarin academic year as my second, which means that I will be taking a gap year if I get in. I would love to know my chances of getting in as well–if I’m correct, the acceptance rate is around 15-18%? Are there any locations that are easier to get into than others?
Hello!! I am a junior applying for the Korean summer program. Yes, that acceptance rate is accurate, and there are no locations that are easier to get into. Some programs seem to have more spots simply because they are more popular among applicants.
I’m a senior applying for Chinese summer (I wanted to do AY, but scholarships won’t defer). I was a Korean summer alternate last year.
I’m an NSLI-Y 2018 summer alumn for Tajiki Persian and I’m applying again this year for the Russian Year program and CBYX. Looking back, I have no idea how I was accepted last year. I didn’t really know what I was applying for and my application was kind of subpar.
@marylynnrose do you have any tips for me to help improve my application?
Know your reasons for studying your language (not only because you have to list them on the application, but you have to know them for your interview). Also, be honest (super cheesy, I know), they really want to know you as a person. While in DC getting my visa for it, I met with one of the heads of admissions who reads all the applications and decides who gets to go, and she mentioned that showing your honest interest in the language really gives you a plus. I had never studied Tajiki Persian before (I did speak a little bit of Farsi because I’m Iranian) but neither had anybody else in our group. Also, show that you are willing to be flexible and are open-minded. One more thing, if you get to the interview stage, one question I struggled with was “What was one fight you had with someone recently, what was it about, and how was it resolved?”. I just sat there for a few minutes trying to come up with something so that’s a question I’d definitely prepare for. Let me know if you have any more specific questions!
I’m an alumn from Russian Summer and I agree with everything @marylynnrose said. I started and finished my application within about a week and didn’t spend that long on my essays, and I’m no fantastic essay writer so don’t worry about them being an artistic masterpiece or anything, just have someone you trust proofread them. My advice would be to just be honest about why you want to learn a language and experience a new culture while stressing your readiness to be put in uncomfortable situations. NSLI-Y doesn’t want to send a student overseas only for them to panic and come back, so make sure you stress that you are flexible and will make the most out of your experience.
Does anyone know if it’s harder to get in if you have opportunities to speak the target language at home (parents are immigrants/first gen)?
Hi, I’m a freshman applying for Korean year and was wondering if you could read my essays? Could I maybe email you? I would really like to get some tips from an alumnus. Thanks!
Hi, @marylynnrose, I’m thinking about applying for Tajiki Persian, but I’m having a little trouble finding good resources (probably because there are so many fewer alumni. Is there anything in particular you think I should consider? Thanks!
Hi guys! I’m a freshman applying for the korean summer program and I’m wondering what they make the selections off of? And what do finalists go to Washington DC for?
Anyone know what the teacher recommendation entails for the teachers? Is it just an essay for the teacher or does it include other questions too?
@potatoepotatoe Here’s the prompt for the NSLI-Y teacher rec:
Please describe student’s behavior with respect to authority and peer relationships. Please comment on student’s management of multiple tasks, timeliness, and preparation for class. What talents, interests, and skills can student contribute to an overseas language immersion program and exchange experience? Please comment on student’s appreciation of cultural diversity and ability to adapt to different, uncomfortable, or unfamiliar environments or situations. What skills could student improve upon? Please give examples.
Please limit your response to 500 words."
who else is SUPER STRESSED ABOUT THE DEADLINE BEING ONE WEEK AWAY
SUPER STRESSED! but it’s gonna be fine
I’m stressed to the max but it’s ok I think we’ll do fine 
how are u all doing on ur essays? i’m satisfied with everything but the host family letter.
They’re coming along! Good luck and happy writing to all
Mine are pretty good, but I need to finish editing
Are there any alums on here that were accepted with previous experience studying abroad? There is a highlighted section on the website that preference is given to students without study abroad experience but I was wondering how strictly that is looked at.