Deadline: February 15, 2026
Applications for The Experiment Digital English-Spanish Language Exchange 2026 are now open. The Experiment Digital English-Spanish Language Exchange is designed to connect high school students across the United States with peers in Latin America, including Argentina, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, French Guiana, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay, and Venezuela.
This program provides the foundation for participants to meaningfully communicate across language divides. The program is a fully funded (free!), eight-week, virtual experience that convenes high school students to practice their target language. Experienced native English speakers and native Spanish speakers co-lead the program, managing both large and small group sessions. Activities are designed to expand participants’ vocabulary, provide forums to receive peer feedback, and facilitate the sharing of cultures and customs related to values, food, and art.
Benefits
Students come away from the program with:
- Improved reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills, with personalized feedback from native speakers (peers and Digital Facilitators);
- Deepened understanding of cultural practices throughout Latin America and the U.S., along with a corresponding increase in useful vocabulary;
- Leadership and global communications skills; and
- Friendships with peers from different countries and cultures.
In addition, upon successful completion of the program, participants receive:
- Certificate of Completion that attests to the skills learned and competencies gained
- $500 alumni discount toward participation in one of The Experiment in International Living’s summer 2026 programs around the world
- Access to The Experiment Digital’s Alumni Network and ongoing professional development opportunities
Eligibility
You are eligible to apply if you:
- Are between the ages of 14–19 years old
- Are currently enrolled in or have not yet completed high school
- Reside in the United States or Latin America, including Argentina, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, French Guiana, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay, and Venezuela.
- Have studied your target language for 1 year or more and gained basic competency in your target language, as defined by the following abilities:
- Recognize and use common words and phrases
- Introduce yourself and engage in simple conversations, including asking clarifying questions
- Write basic sentences and fill out forms
- Understand simple sentences and instructions in spoken language
- Have regular access to the Internet*
- Can devote 2- 4 hours each week to the program
*Internet support may be available upon request.
Selection Criteria
They look for participants who:
- Demonstrate a commitment to the program and its goals
- Are passionate about developing their leadership and global communication skills
- Have an open-minded attitude and are willing to learn from others
- Have a strong desire to create social change in their communities
- Have not had extensive travel experience.
Application
Applicants will need to submit the following materials:
- Application form (with student and parent/guardian information)
- Short written responses
- Homestay letter & photo
- Passport copy
For more information, visit Experiment Digital English-Spanish Language Exchange.
