Kildare to Lexington student exchange programme returns for 2027

Kildare County Council is urging students not to miss out on this incredible opportunity to broaden their horizons and experience a new culture through their Kildare to Lexington student exchange programme.

This unique initiative is a collaboration between the twinning committees of County Kildare and Lexington, Kentucky, U.S.A., offering students an opportunity for an unforgettable cultural experience.

The exchange has been running since 1984, creating a strong bond between Kildare and Lexington.

Each year, students from all over Kildare travel to Lexington and get to experience American life firsthand, they also welcome a student from Lexington into their home in Kildare.

The County Kildare students parent(s)/guardian(s) must be willing and able to host a USA student in their home for approximately the same length of time as the Irish student is in America. The Irish and the American student spend both parts of the exchange together.

Participants should be prepared to spend approximately €750 in travel costs, additional costs above €750 are met by grant funding from Kildare County Council. The host family is required to provide room and board.

Students should exhibit maturity, flexibility, and an interest in Irish and American culture. This opportunity creates lifelong friendships and gives both students the opportunity to experience a different culture.

The programme runs throughout the summer and is available to students aged 16 and over from schools across County Kildare. The closing date for applications is Friday, 11 December 2026.

Full programme details and application forms are available here.