The application deadline for Chula Vista’s student exchange program with sister city Odawara, Japan has been extended to April 24.

Chula Vista’s International Friendship Commission will select four Chula Vista residents to spend two weeks this summer with Japanese host families in Odawara. Candidates should be 18 to 25- year old college or college bound students and must be U.S. citizens.  The Commission will provide a $1,000 travel stipend toward airfare.

Exchange visits between the two cities are scheduled from July 21 to August 18. Chula Vista representatives will depart on July 21 and return with their respective Japanese students on August 4.  Japanese students will return home on August 18.

Applications are available online at www.chulavistaca.gov under Key City Services. Applications are also available from International Friendship Commissioners or high school and college counselors.

Students must turn in their applications to International Friendship Commission secretary Lilia Cesena at the Mayor and Council offices by 3 p.m. on April 24.  A special sub-committee will review all applications and selected candidates will be interviewed on April 29. A location will be announced at a later date.