Global UGRAD- Apply now

The Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD) provides a diverse group of emerging leaders with a scholarship for one semester of non-degree academic study at a U.S. college or university. The program is sponsored by the U.S Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, and aims to recruit participants from underrepresented, non-elite backgrounds. Successful applicants can expect an in-depth exposure to U.S. society, culture, and academic institutions, as well as an opportunity to enhance their professional skills.

All participants will be enrolled in full-time, non-degree, undergraduate course work chosen from their host institution’s existing curriculum. Participants will be required to take one, 3-credit U.S. studies course to enhance their understanding of the United States. Participants will live in campus housing facilities with American peers, and will be required to participate in twenty hours of community service. There will also be a virtual arrival orientation and an in-person end-of-program workshop.

For application information and instructions, please visit www.worldlearning.org/ugrad.

Eligibility for the Global UGRAD Program:

1. Applicants must be a citizen of the country in which they apply for the Global UGRAD Program.
2. Applicants must be studying in the country in which they apply for the Global UGRAD Program
3. Scholarships will be granted to students who currently are enrolled in full-time undergraduate programs only, having completed a minimum of their first semester of study. Participants must have at least one semester or an equivalent term to complete at their home institutions upon completion of the Global UGRAD Program.
4. Applicants should demonstrate leadership potential through academic work, community involvement, and extracurricular activities.
5. Applicants must demonstrate a command of written and spoken English.  The TOEFL exam will be required of those selected as finalists or alternates.
6. Preference will be given to those who have had little or NO experience in the U.S. or outside of their home countries.
7. Applicants must be committed to return directly to their home country after the completion of the program.
8. Applicants are over 18 years of age.

Individuals in the following circumstances are not eligible for the Global UGRAD Program:

1. U.S. citizens and permanent residents of the United States;
2. Individuals currently studying, residing, or working outside of their home country;
3. Local employees of the U.S. missions abroad who work for the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID); employees are also ineligible for one year following the termination of employment;
4. Immediate family members (i.e. spouses and children) of U.S. Department of State and USAID employees; family members are also ineligible for one year following the termination of employment;
5. Current World Learning employees and their immediate family members.

For additional information, and to complete the online application please visit the link at: Global UGRAD page.