The selection process begins with a screening to ensure that all applicants meet the basic eligibility requirements. Trained evaluators then review the applications and assess the applicants' motivation for language learning, maturity, and readiness for a challenging academic and immersion experience.

All students will be enrolled in language classes and receive at least 120 hours total of classroom language instruction (about four hours of intensive language instruction five days per week).

NSLI-Y provides overseas critical language study opportunities to American youth through merit-based scholarships to spark a lifetime interest in critical foreign languages and cultures.

The program is free to participants. Students who complete the Virtual NSLI-Y program are eligible to apply for the regular NSLI-Y study abroad program.