Destinations List
About Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland is one of the four countries that make up the United Kingdom and is located on the northeastern part of the island of Ireland. It shares a border with the Republic of Ireland and is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the North Channel, and the Irish Sea. Northern Ireland is known for its beautiful green countryside, rugged coastline, rolling hills, and historic towns and cities.
With a population of around 1.9 million people, Northern Ireland’s capital and largest city is Belfast. Other towns and cities include Derry/Londonderry, Newry, Armagh, and Lisburn. Agriculture remains an important part of rural life, while tourism, manufacturing, services, and technology also play significant roles in the economy.
What to Expect:
IFYEs will spend time in Northern Ireland , staying with several host families, including families living in rural communities. IFYEs can expect to become part of everyday family life. Time may be spent helping around the home or farm, sharing meals, visiting local communities, and attending community events. Northern Irish hospitality is an important part of the experience, and visitors may find that conversations over a cup of tea are just as memorable as the places they visit.
Northern Ireland offers a chance to experience a culture shaped by both its rural traditions and its complex history. Living with host families allows IFYEs to learn about the country through everyday experiences rather than simply visiting as a tourist.
About Scotland
Scotland is one of the four countries that make up the United Kingdom and occupies the northern third of the island of Great Britain. It is bordered by England to the south and surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the North Sea, and numerous islands. Scotland is famous for its dramatic landscapes, including mountains, lochs, glens, islands, forests, and rugged coastlines.
Scotland has a population of over 5 million people, with the capital city of Edinburgh and the largest city, Glasgow, being major centers of culture, education, business, and tourism. Outside the cities, Scotland has many rural communities where farming, fishing, forestry, and tourism remain important parts of everyday life.
What to Expect:
IFYEs will spend time in Scottish communities staying with several host families. Some families may live on farms or in small rural communities, giving participants an opportunity to experience a different side of Scotland beyond its cities and famous landmarks. Each family and region will offer something different, from the Highlands and islands to the Lowlands and rural farming communities.
Scottish family life can include shared meals, cooking and baking, walks through the countryside, visits with friends and neighbors, and participation in local community activities. IFYEs may have opportunities to help with farm or household activities and experience the rhythms of rural life firsthand.
Program Information:
Applications for the 2027 program can be found here: IFYE Outbound Application Process
Application Deadline: March 31, 2027
For additional information, please contact: Rebecca Pratt, National Program Director, rpratt@ifyeusa.org
