Study of the U.S. Institutes (SUSIs) Program on Civic Engagement for African Student Leaders 2017

The United States Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs has commenced the Study of the U.S. Institutes (SUSIs) for Student Leaders. African undergraduate students are invited to five- to six-week academic program on civic engagement designed to improve their understanding of the United States and to develop their leadership skills. 

Application Deadline: Ongoing

Eligible Countries: Angola, Botswana, Mozambique, South Africa, Zimbabwe

To Be Taken At (Country): Foundation for International Understanding Through Students (FIUTS), USA

Theme of Program: Civic Engagement

About the Award: The Study of the U.S. Institute on Civic Engagement provides student leaders with an overview of how citizens have shaped U.S. history, government, and society both as individuals and groups. The coursework examines the development of civic engagement in the U.S. and explores topics such as citizenship, community building, economic development, grassroots activism, political leadership, and volunteerism.  Other topics such as civil rights, entrepreneurship, ethics, and leadership are discussed.  In addition to classroom sessions, participants will meet with community leaders, entrepreneurs, and representatives of non-profit organizations.  The academic sessions are complemented by workshops designed to build practical skills and educational travel that allows participants to broaden their understanding of citizen engagement across the United States.

Type: Undergraduate

Eligibility: Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be between the ages of 18 and 25 and have at least one semester left of college or university
• Demonstrate leadership through academic work, community involvement, and extracurricular activities
• Proficient in reading, writing, and speaking English
• Have little or no prior travel or study experience in the United States
• Not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident of the United States
• Eligible to receive a United States J-1 visa

Number of Awards: Each Institute includes approximately 20 participants from selected countries.

Value of Award:  Institutes include a four-week academic residency consisting of interactive classroom activities, discussions, lectures, readings, site visits, and workshops; one week of educational travel to a different region of the United States; leadership skills building activities; community service; and opportunities to interact with their American peers on a college campus.

Duration of Program: 5 weeks

How to Apply: Prospective participants should contact the Public Affairs Section of their local U.S. Embassy or Consulate for up-to-date information about 2017 Institutes. U.S. Embassies manage the nomination of candidates, as well as organize participants’ visa interviews and international travel to the United States. In some countries, candidates may also be selected by a binational Fulbright Commission.

Visit the Program Webpage for Details

Award Providers: The United States Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs