EFY Changed Their Name: Here's What You Need to Know (And Some Great Alternatives)

If you've been trying to sign your teen up for EFY this summer, you might have noticed

things look a little different. Especially for Youth (EFY) has officially changed its name to BYU Expeditions.

The rebrand was announced in early 2026, and this summer will be the first season under the new name.

EFY has been a summer staple for Latter-day Saint families going back decades. The program started in 1976, and since then, close to a million young people have attended.

So yeah, a name change is kind of a big deal. Here's what's going on, plus some alternatives worth knowing about if you're planning your teen's summer.

Why Did EFY Change Its Name?

BYU Continuing Education says the new name is meant to better connect the program with Brigham Young University's broader mission. Program leaders have been clear that the core of EFY hasn't changed.

The trusted structure, experienced staff, and focus on youth development and spiritual growth are all still in place. The word "expedition" was chosen on purpose to represent a journey with purpose and direction.

This summer is the first under the BYU Expeditions name. Registration is open, and they're offering Adventure, Church History, and BYU Campus sessions. If your teen enjoyed the traditional EFY format, BYU Expeditions is the direct continuation of that program.

What About FSY?

Worth noting: BYU Expeditions (formerly EFY) and FSY are two separate programs. FSY, or For the Strength of Youth, is run by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

It's a five-day conference held on college campuses that includes devotionals, classes, and activities. Your stake gets assigned either an even or odd year to attend, and youth need to be approved by their bishopric before they can register. (In some cases, youth may be able to get approval to attend in off years — check with your bishopric.)

FSY is a great program, but since stakes typically only participate every other year, a lot of families end up looking for something to fill the gap. That's where these alternatives come in.

Alternatives Worth Considering

Whether your teen is in an off year for FSY, looking for something more adventurous than a campus program, or just wants a different kind of experience, there are some good options out there.

OFY (Outdoors for Youth)

When OFY stands out because it pairs Gospel learning with actual outdoor adventure. Instead of sitting in a classroom or lecture hall, teens at OFY explore Gospel principles through hands-on experiences in the mountains near Rexburg, Idaho.

Think white-water rafting, high ropes courses, arrow tag, tomahawk throwing, and more — all woven together with daily scripture study, devotionals, group testimony sharing, and campfire discussions.

OFY is a five-day program run by the nonprofit Teton Experience. It's independent from BYU and the Church, but the Gospel of Jesus Christ is at the center of everything they do. Prayer and scripture study are central to the experience.

OFY also has dances! So your teen gets the full camp experience alongside the adventure and spiritual growth.

For teens who learn best by doing — whether they're seasoned outdoor adventurers or trying camping for the first time — OFY is a strong pick. It gives them a chance to step away from screens, build confidence, develop leadership skills, and strengthen their testimonies all in the same week.

Local Stake Youth Camps

Don't sleep on your own stake or ward's youth camps. A lot of local congregations put together their own camps during the summer, especially in off years for FSY.

These can be a great way for your teen to connect with friends in their area and have a meaningful spiritual experience without the cost or travel of a bigger program.

Which One Is Right for Your Teen?

It depends on what your teen is looking for. If they're the kind of kid who lights up when they're outside — or who's been curious about trying it for the first time — and who wants to be pushed both physically and spiritually, and who could really use some time away from their phone, a program like OFY could be a great fit.

The mix of adventure and Gospel learning tends to create experiences that stick with teens well after they get home.

If your teen does better in a campus setting with speakers, dances, and a more structured schedule, BYU Expeditions or FSY (when it's your stake's year) are solid choices.

What matters most is that your teen gets a chance to step away from the everyday noise and invest in their testimony and personal growth. A week spent on faith, friendship, and new experiences can go a long way.

Key Takeaways

EFY is now BYU Expeditions, but the mission is the same. FSY is a Church-run program available every other year depending on your stake's cycle.

And if you want something different for your teen, something that puts them in the mountains instead of a lecture hall, OFY offers an adventure-based approach to Gospel learning that's worth a look.

Help your teen make the most of this summer. Check out OFY's program and reserve a spot at outdoorsforyouth.org!