Embassy of the United States

Consulate General News 2008

Near East South Asia Undergraduate Exchange Program

The Near East and South Asia Undergraduate Exchange Program (NESA UGRAD) is a program of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA), U.S. Department of State and administered by Georgetown University's Center for Intercultural Education and Development (CIED). The Program provides full scholarships for outstanding students from the Near East* and South Asia** for one semester or one academic year of non-degree undergraduate study in the United States at accredited two- and four-year institutions.

*Near East: Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Oman, Palestinian Territories, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates, Yemen

**South Asia: Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh

Program Objectives

The goal of the program is to increase the mutual understanding between young emerging leaders from the Near East and South Asia and the United States by providing meaningful academic and cultural experiences at U.S. academic institutions. The immersion experience on American campuses is designed to ensure that participants gain a first-hand understanding of the American way of life which will build lasting bonds of friendship and result in the development of peaceful and constructive relations between their nations and the United States.

Specific objectives of the NESA UGRAD Program are:

1. To provide a meaningful exchange experience at a U.S. host institution to a diverse group of emerging student leaders from underrepresented sectors of the region;
2. To enroll them as full-time students in a non-degree field of study;
3. To provide them with opportunities to understand America and Americans inside and outside the classroom;
4. To equip them with academic skills and study habits required for achieving success and implementing change in their home countries;
5. To enrich their experience with activities that enhance their education, to include cultural presentations to others, 20 hours of community service, and an internship linked to their field of study;
6. To provide Americans with the opportunity to learn about the Near East and South Asia.

Program sponsors and benefits:

The program is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. Selected candidates will have their international airfare, tuition and fees covered.

They will also have accident and health insurance, a book allowance housing and subsistence.

Eligibility:

• First, second and third year undergraduate university students in any academic field of study; (students who will be graduating high school by August 2009 are eligible to apply)
• Demonstrated academic excellence, cross-cultural interest and leadership potential;
• Accepted level of proficiency in written and spoken English;

Application & Required documents:

• To view & complete your application please find the file at the end of the page
• Complete, typed application;
• Personal statement in English 350 – 500 words;
• Copies of the official transcripts for years of university and High school study;
• Three letters of recommendation from teachers/professors, including one from a secondary school teacher;
• Two passport-size photos;
• Copy of your passport bio data page;

Deadline:

All applications must be submitted before January 3rd.  Applications submitted after will NOT be reviewed.

Contact:

For more information about the program, please contact program coordinator , by  e-mail at EducationUSAAbuDhabi@state.gov

Candidates are encouraged to submit electronically a complete application using the following e-mail address:  EducationUSAAbuDhabi@state.gov