Global UGRAD: Fully Funded US Semester Exchange
The US Department of State's Global Undergraduate Exchange (Global UGRAD) sends mid-career African undergraduates to a US campus for one fully funded semester. Eligibility, funding, deadlines.
At a glance
- Sponsor
- US Department of State (ECA) · administered by World Learning
- Level
- Non-degree undergraduate exchange (1 semester)
- Funding
- Fully funded — tuition, room & board, J-1 visa, return airfare, monthly stipend, health
- Deadline
- Typically January each year (country-specific)
Who is eligible
- Citizen of an eligible country (most African nations qualify — confirm on the country-specific call).
- Currently enrolled as an undergraduate with at least one semester remaining after the exchange.
- Minimum age 18, no prior US study or travel in the last 5 years.
- Strong English proficiency; TOEFL or other proof may be required at finalist stage.
- Commitment to return home and complete your home-country degree.
What the award covers
- J-1 visa support and SEVIS fee
- Round-trip international travel from your home country to the US host campus
- Tuition, mandatory fees, room and board at the host university
- Monthly stipend for incidentals and books
- Accident and sickness insurance for the program duration
- Pre-departure and arrival orientations
How to apply
- Open the country-specific application portal on the World Learning UGRAD site when calls open (usually October–January).
- Prepare two essays (about 650 words each) — academic interest plus civic-engagement plan.
- Secure two academic references familiar with your coursework.
- Upload your official transcript and proof of current enrolment.
- Submit before the country deadline — late entries are not reviewed.
Frequently asked questions
Is Global UGRAD a degree program?
No. UGRAD is a one-semester non-degree exchange; you take credits at a US university and return to finish your degree at home.
Which African countries are eligible?
Most Sub-Saharan and North African countries cycle through the program. Check the current call on the World Learning UGRAD website for your country's open application window.
Do I need IELTS or TOEFL?
Not at first-round application. Finalists may be asked to take an English test before placement; UGRAD also offers some pre-academic English programming.
Can I choose my host university?
No. UGRAD places you at a US partner campus based on your academic field and program fit. Placements are confirmed a few months before arrival.
What does 'civic engagement' mean for UGRAD?
Every UGRAD scholar completes at least 20 hours of community service during the semester — examples include tutoring, environmental projects, and youth mentoring.