Deadline: 15 January 2025
The AFS Global STEM Academies combine digital and in-person learning, gathering youth from 15 countries worldwide, in which scholars enrich their sustainability knowledge and STEM skills through interactive, hands-on curriculum, while developing critical global competencies, including problem-solving, analytical skills, intercultural understanding, and social innovation.
The Academies begin with a 12-week virtual e-learning curriculum (from home), engaging in global competence skills, social impact, and sustainability-focused workshops, with content co-developed by AFS and the University of Pennsylvania Center for Social Impact Strategy. The virtual portion of the program culminates with student-led social impact projects and presentations that offer potential solutions to real-world challenges, with an emphasis on sustainability and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, including the topics of climate change and the energy transition.
After completing the virtual curriculum, Academy scholars travel on a 4-week immersive experience to one of the four Academy destinations: Brazil, China, Egypt, or India. Academy programming focuses on critical STEM skills and intercultural understanding for global sustainability, as well as local cultural immersion. Scholars participate in community service and have the opportunity to visit local innovative, sustainability-focused operations to see first-hand how companies and organizations are using STEM skills in practice to address industry and societal challenges, particularly around sustainability.
Benefits
- Orientations during your time abroad
- Cultural Tours
- Field Trips
- AFS Worldwide Presence
- Intercultural Learning & Emotional Support
- Housing
- Meals
- Airfare
- Airport Pick-up
- Domestic Transport
- Medical Insurance
- 24/7 Emergency Support
- Continuous Support
- Assistance with Application Process
- Visa Application Assistance
Eligibility Criteria
- Global STEM Academy applicants must be 15-17.5 years old at the program start date (birth dates from September 1, 2007, through April 1, 2010).
- Must be able to participate fully in a classroom setting and program conducted entirely in English.
- Applicants must have the ability and willingness to travel internationally for the full four weeks to any of the Academies destinations.
- Strong candidates demonstrate interest in sustainability, STEM, travel abroad, and curiosity to learn about and interact with different cultures.
- Willingness to attend any of the for Academy destinations – Brazil, China, Egypt, or India. Applicants may list their destination preference(s), but AFS will maintain the final say in where admitted students are assigned.
- Participants must have a valid and current passport. AFS can help guide you on how to obtain one, if needed.
- Talented young people from all backgrounds who reflect the diversity of populations around the world, particularly young women, underrepresented populations, and students with high financial need, are strongly encouraged to apply!
For more information, visit ASF-USA.
