The Worldwide AFS Scholarship Program is a prestigious and transformative initiative aimed at providing students with the opportunity to experience intercultural learning and global education. Administered by AFS Intercultural Programs, a non-profit organization with a long history of promoting international student exchange, the scholarship program seeks to foster global understanding, cultural exchange, and personal growth among young people from diverse backgrounds.
Women around the world currently make up more than half of the college-educated workforce. However, STEM fields are made up of only 28% women. Women and girls who desire to learn more about STEM often face a challenging set of circumstances in fields that are traditionally dominated by men. (See the American Association of University Women for more details).
That’s why we have created a program dedicated to the future of women in STEM fields. By providing an opportunity for girls from around the world to explore their interests in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, we can start to change this trend and open up more possibilities for the perspectives of women in the greater goal of reaching a sustainable future.
Designed for high school students, the AFS Scholarship Program offers participants the chance to spend an academic year or semester abroad in one of the many host countries affiliated with AFS. These scholarships cover various expenses, including tuition, travel, and living costs, making it accessible to students who might not otherwise afford such an experience. The program’s goal is to break down financial barriers and enable talented and motivated students to broaden their horizons through international education.
Recipients of the AFS Scholarship are selected through a competitive process that evaluates academic performance, leadership potential, and a demonstrated interest in intercultural learning. The selection criteria also emphasize the applicant’s ability to adapt to new environments and their potential to contribute positively to their host community. By bringing together students from different cultures and backgrounds, the program aims to create a diverse and inclusive environment that enriches the learning experience for all participants.
Scholarship winners will participate in 12 week all-virtual programs focusing on emerging and critical STEM skills and fields, global competence education, and social impact (co-developed with the University of Pennsylvania). Scholars will enrich their STEM knowledge and skills through interactive, hands-on curriculum, while developing critical global competencies, including problem-solving, analytical skills, intercultural understanding, and the ability to build bridges across cultures.
The program culminates with team projects and presentations that offer potential solutions to real-world challenges, with an emphasis on climate change and the energy transition. Scholars who complete the program earn the Advanced Certificate on Global Competence for Social Impact, awarded by AFS and the University of Pennsylvania Center for Social Impact Strategy. bp, a global energy company, provides funding that supports these scholarships.
Benefits
Scholars who complete the program earn the Advanced Certificate on Global Competence for Social Impact, awarded by AFS and the University of Pennsylvania Center for Social Impact Strategy.
Requirements For The Worldwide AFS Scholarship Program
- Open to young women from anywhere in the world;
- Must be 15-17.5 years old at the program start date;
- Ability to participate fully, both online and in a classroom setting, in a program conducted entirely in English;
- Interest in STEM, sustainability, and global competencies;
- Curiosity and willingness to interact with diverse global peers and explore new cultures;
- Have a computer, smartphone or other digital device to access the virtual program content;
- An integrated webcam and microphone for participation in online dialogue sessions;
- Stable internet or wifi connection;
- Talented young women from all backgrounds who reflect the diversity of populations around the world, particularly underrepresented populations, and students with high financial need, are strongly encouraged to apply
Selection Process
Timeline
- February 1: Application for Cohort 1 opens
- March 17: Application deadline for Cohort 1
- April 5: Admissions decisions for Cohort 1 announced via email
- May 1: Application for Cohort 2 opens
- May 4 – Aug 4: Cohort 1 virtual exchange
- Jul 1: Application deadline for Cohort 2
- Jul 24: Admissions decisions for Cohort 2 announced via email
- Aug 24 – Nov 24: Cohort 2 virtual exchange
Method of Application
Visit The Official Website to Apply
Application Deadline: July 1, 2024.
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