Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD)

Update (13 November 2026): The call for the 2027-28 programme has not been announced yet. The US State Department has funded Global UGRAD for study in the 2027-28 academic year, and calls are announced by US Embassies and Fulbright Commissions. The last global deadline was 15 December 2025.

Brief description:

The Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD) gives outstanding undergraduate students from around the world one semester of non-degree study at a US college or university, combined with community service, professional development and cultural activities. It is sponsored by the US Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) and run by World Learning (and by IREX for Pakistan).

Host Institution(s):

Colleges and universities across the United States

Field(s) of study:

One semester of non-degree undergraduate study in all academic fields.

Target group:

University students from Global UGRAD participating countries. The list changes from year to year, so check with the US Embassy or Fulbright Commission in your country.

Scholarship value/inclusions:

The scholarship covers one academic semester, including international travel, tuition, room and board, accident and sickness insurance, a small monthly stipend and money for books. Finalists who need it may get virtual English language training before the semester starts.

Eligibility:

• be over 18 and a citizen of a participating country, living in that country;
• be enrolled as an undergraduate in good standing at an accredited university, with at least one semester left at your home university after the programme;
• have completed secondary education in your home country;
• have a good command of written and spoken English;
• be able to receive a US J-1 exchange visa and commit to returning home after the programme;
• not be a US citizen or permanent resident.

Application instructions:

Apply through the US Embassy (Public Affairs Section) or Fulbright Commission in your home country. Deadlines vary by country and region. In Pakistan, the programme is run by the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP).

It is important to visit the official website (link found below) for detailed information on how to apply for this scholarship.

Website:

Official Scholarship Website: https://exchanges.state.gov/non-us/program/global-undergraduate-exchange-program-global-ugrad

Related Scholarships: Top 15+ Scholarships in USA for International Students