- What does Experiences Canada offer to Scout groups?
- How do I apply for an exchange?
- What are the benefits of an exchange?
- What are the costs associated with an exchange?
- Are additional PRC/VSS checks required for volunteers?
- How many Scouters will Experiences Canada subsidize? Will Sections need to cover the cost of travel for additional Scouters?
- Is there a minimum/maximum age for youth to participate? How many youths can participate?
- How can Sections ensure that the exchange is youth-led?
- Are there restrictions regarding where youth stay?
- What category of adventure is an exchange?
- How far in advance should we apply for an exchange?
- Ahead of applying for an exchange, what should I do?
- Can my Section take part in a traditional exchange with a group other than a Scouting Section or Indigenous group?
- What if I have other questions?
What does Experiences Canada offer to Scout groups?
We’re excited to announce our new partnership with Experiences Canada, a leader in providing life-changing educational youth experiences. For over 85 years, Experiences Canada has been creating opportunities for young Canadians to explore their country to foster personal growth, self-confidence and the building of lifelong friendships. Through this program, youth also deepen their knowledge of Canadian bilingualism, cultural diversity and history, while developing leadership skills and enhancing their community engagement.
As part of this partnership, Scouting groups now benefit from a waived membership (application) fee when participating in exchanges either between Scout sections or between a Scout Section and an Indigenous group. This partnership offers youth unique, impactful experiences that support their personal and social development.
Click here to learn more about Youth Exchanges
Stay tuned for details about an upcoming virtual information session!
How do I apply for an exchange?
Applications are completed online by the Scouter in charge on the Experiences Canada website. Apply for an exchange now.
What are the benefits of an exchange?
This initiative offers a unique opportunity for reciprocal exchanges between two groups of Canadian youth, each from different regions. These experiences are enriching, offering participants the chance to build lifelong memories, broaden their perspectives and enhance their learning. Youth develop leadership, cultural awareness and personal confidence through these exchanges.
Additionally, Experiences Canada covers the travel costs for your Section, whether by airplane, train or coach. As transportation costs often represent the largest expense of such an adventure, this financial support is a key benefit for participants.
What are the costs associated with an exchange?
Thanks to the partnership between Scouts Canada and Experiences Canada, the $250 membership (application) fee is waived for exchanges between Scout Sections or between a Scout Section and an Indigenous group.
Each participant, including both youth and Scouters, pays a registration fee of $250 once the exchange is approved. Travel costs between community airports are fully covered by Experiences Canada. However, if participants cancel and no replacement is found up to one week prior to travel, they are responsible for the full cost of their tickets. In such cases, Experiences Canada will invoice them.
Costs for local activities and excursions during the exchange are the responsibility of the Sections and vary depending on the chosen activities. Fundraising is highly encouraged to help cover these expenses.
Experiences Canada will arrange airport transfers to and from the exchange community or camp.
Are additional PRC/VSS checks required for volunteers?
No, Scouters in good standing with Scouts Canada who have a valid PRC do not need to submit an additional PRC/VSS to participate in an exchange. Scouts Canada will provide Experiences Canada with confirmation that the Scouter has a valid PRC during the onboarding process once the exchange is confirmed.
How many Scouters will Experiences Canada subsidize? Will Sections need to cover the cost of travel for additional Scouters?
Experiences Canada recognizes Scouts Canada's Section ratios, which require a minimum of one Scouter per eight youth (1:8). Additionally, the Two-Scouter rule is mandatory for all exchanges. The table below outlines how many Scouters will have their travel costs subsidized by Experiences Canada, based on the number of youths participating. Any additional Scouters beyond those subsidized will need to be self-funded.
| Number of youths per section participating in the exchange | Number of Scouters subsidized by Experiences Canada | Note |
| 10-16 | 2 | While this exchange can proceed with two Scouters, it is strongly recommended that your section have at least one additional Scouter to ensure the Two-Scouter rule is always upheld. Additional Scouters will need to be self-funded. |
| 17-19 | 2 | This exchange can only take place with a minimum of three Scouters. At least one additional Scouter will need to be self-funded to ensure your exchange meets the Two-Scouter rule. |
| 20-24 | 3 | While this exchange can proceed with three Scouters, it is strongly recommended that your section have at least one additional Scouter. Additional Scouters will need to be self-funded. |
| 25-26 | 3 | This exchange can only take place with a minimum of four Scouters. At least one additional Scouter will need to be self-funded to ensure your exchange meets the Two-Scouter rule. |
| 27-30 | 4 | While this exchange can proceed with four Scouters, it is strongly recommended that your section have at least one additional Scouter. Additional Scouters will need to be self-funded. |
Is there a minimum/maximum age for youth to participate? How many youths can participate?
Exchanges are open to Scouts and Venturer Sections with 10-30 youth participants aged 12-17. Youth who are 11 but turning 12 during the exchange year (April 1 to March 31) are also eligible to participate.
How can Sections ensure that the exchange is youth-led?
We encourage Scouters to engage youth in the planning and decision-making process of their exchange. This is a valuable opportunity for youth to develop leadership skills, practice teamwork, and take ownership of their adventure.
Additionally, each Section should identify a Youth Ambassador. This youth representative will work with Experiences Canada staff to document the exchange through social media, sharing updates, photos, and stories. The Youth Ambassador may also contribute content to the Experiences Canada blog, offering reflections on the exchange experience and helping to inspire other youth to get involved.
Are there restrictions regarding where youth stay?
Yes, the safety and well-being of youth are paramount. Youth must be hosted in appropriate and safe environments such as homes with designated leaders or campgrounds that meet the safety guidelines outlined by Scouts Canada and Experiences Canada.
What category of adventure is an exchange?
An exchange is classified as an international and multicultural adventure, combining travel, exploration, and cultural exchange. It offers a balanced mix of outdoor activities, social engagement, and personal growth.
How far in advance should we apply for an exchange?
We recommend applying for an exchange at least 6-12 months in advance. This timeline allows sufficient time for travel arrangements, planning, and organizing pre-exchange meetings between the exchange groups.
Ahead of applying for an exchange, what should I do?
Before applying, ensure that your section has enough youth participants (10-30) and at least one adult Scouter available to accompany them. You should also discuss fundraising strategies to cover any costs beyond travel and registration fees.
Once you have a team of participants ready, review the available exchange opportunities on the Experiences Canada website and determine which best suits your group's interests and logistics.
Can my Section take part in a traditional exchange with a group other than a Scouting Section or Indigenous group?
Yes, in certain circumstances, your Section can participate in exchanges with non-Scouting or non-Indigenous groups. Please contact Experiences Canada for more details and eligibility criteria.
What if I have other questions?
If you have additional questions, please reach out to your local Experiences Canada representative or email the team directly at info@experiencescanada.ca.