2026 Summer Sister City Student Exchange to Oiso, Japan
The Racine Sister City Planning Commission is now accepting applications for the 2026 Summer Student Exchange Program to Oiso, Japan.
This program is designed to provide students with meaningful family, cultural, and language experiences while living with host families and participating in a variety of educational and cultural activities. During the exchange, students will tour historical and cultural sites and experience daily life within a Japanese household, gaining a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and traditions.
Trip Dates:
Sunday, July 19 through Sunday, August 2, 2026
Program Costs:
Students are responsible for the following expenses:
- Airfare to Japan (approximately $1,500)
- Passport fee ($160)
- Personal spending money
The Racine Sister City Planning Commission will have scholarships available to help offset some of these costs.
Application RequirementsA thing that is needed or wanted.:
All applications must be submitted by Monday, March 2, 2026, and must include:
- Completed online application
- Personal essay (250–500 words): Why would you like to visit Japan?
- Two letters of recommendation
- One from a teacher or school counselor
- One from a non-related adult
- Letters should be emailed directly by referees to Sistercity@cityofracine.org
- Applicants must live in the City of Racine and be currently enrolled in 9th, 10th, or 11th grade.
Selection Process:
All completed applications will be reviewed by the Racine Sister City Planning Commission. The highest-ranked applicants will be invited to participate in interviews.
- Applicants will be notified of their status via email by Friday, March 6, 2026
- Final student selections will be completed by the end of March
- Mandatory orientation sessions will be held to prepare students for the exchange
Apply online here: https://bit.ly/Racine-Oiso2026
For additional information about the exchange program, please contact: Sistercity@cityofracine.org
