A program of the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, the Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD ) provides emerging student leaders with a scholarship for one semester of non-degree academic study at a U.S. college or university. The program is designed to increase participants’ understanding of the United States and enhance their leadership skills through academic coursework, community service, and professional development activities.

During the exchange semester, Global UGRAD students live and learn on-campus alongside their American peers, complete 20 hours of community service, and enroll in full-time undergraduate coursework, including one U.S. Studies course. Students also participate in an end-of-program workshop in Washington, DC, to develop their leadership skills further, network with their global cohort, and prepare for re-entry. Upon returning home, Global UGRAD students apply the new knowledge and skills gained during the program to enact positive change in their local communities and join a global network of over 3,000 UGRAD alumni.