Dreaming of studying in the U.S. for a semester? The Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (UGRAD) offers Indian students a fully funded opportunity to experience American academic life, engage in cultural exchange, and build lifelong connections. If you’re ready to broaden your horizons and grow as a leader, this program is your gateway!
The Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (UGRAD) offers a life-changing opportunity for undergraduate students to study in the U.S. for one semester. Managed by the U.S. Department of State, the program promotes diversity and inclusion, empowering students from different backgrounds to build global connections, develop leadership skills, and bring positive change to their communities.
🔵 Mode: Full-time in-person
🏛️ Organization: U.S. Department of State
⏳ Deadline: Annually in December
💰 Stipend: Full funding (tuition, airfare, insurance, and monthly stipend)
🗺️ Countries Eligible: Over 60 countries, including India
🏷️ Tags: Undergraduate, cultural exchange, leadership
🌐 About Organization:
The Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (UGRAD) is run by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Its mission is to promote global understanding and mutual cooperation by bringing students from different parts of the world to the U.S. for a semester. The program emphasizes diversity and inclusion by supporting students from underrepresented backgrounds.
By participating in UGRAD, students get the chance to experience U.S. academic life and culture firsthand, allowing them to build cross-cultural networks and develop leadership skills. They return to their home countries as cultural ambassadors, bringing new knowledge and perspectives that benefit their communities. The UGRAD program aligns with the broader U.S. foreign policy goal of strengthening international friendships and cooperation.
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🚀 About Scholarship:
The Global UGRAD program is a one-semester, non-degree exchange opportunity for undergraduate students from various countries, including India. This program offers a well-rounded educational experience, where students not only take courses relevant to their field of study but also engage in extracurricular activities, community service, and volunteering.
Through these activities, participants enhance their academic and personal growth while building lasting friendships across cultures. The UGRAD program also encourages students to share their home culture with others, fostering mutual learning. Additionally, participants attend workshops and cultural events, enriching their knowledge beyond the classroom. After completing the semester, students become part of the UGRAD alumni network, gaining access to leadership programs, conferences, and lifelong connections.
🏆 Benefits
- Fully funded tuition and accommodation: Covers tuition fees and living arrangements for the entire semester.
- Monthly stipend: Helps with daily expenses, making it easier to focus on academics and personal development.
- Round-trip airfare: Covers the cost of flights from the student’s home country to the U.S. and back.
- Health insurance: Provides medical coverage throughout the program.
- Access to networking and alumni events: Opportunities to connect with peers, experts, and leaders through events and lifelong alumni networks.
🎓 Eligibility Criteria
- Indian citizen currently enrolled in an undergraduate program in India.
- Age between 18-25 years at the time of application.
- Proficient in English (TOEFL or other language proficiency test may be required).
- No prior long-term study experience in the U.S. (Students who have participated in long-term U.S. programs are not eligible).
The UGRAD program welcomes students from all fields of study, encouraging those with diverse backgrounds and experiences to apply. It particularly seeks applicants who show strong leadership potential and a willingness to engage in community service activities upon returning home.
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📝 Application Process
- Online application submission: Complete the application form through the official U.S. Embassy or Fulbright website.
- Upload academic transcripts and recommendation letters: Provide official transcripts showing your academic achievements and letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors.
- Prepare personal essays and a CV: Write essays detailing your goals, how this program fits into your academic journey, and how you plan to use the experience to benefit your community.
- Shortlisting and interview: Some applicants may be called for interviews as part of the selection process.
- Final selection: Selected students will receive guidance on visa processes and pre-departure preparations.
The Global UGRAD program is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Indian undergraduate students to experience the best of U.S. academic and cultural life. This fully-funded exchange builds skills, leadership abilities, and lifelong friendships, preparing participants to become global citizens who contribute meaningfully to their home countries. If you’re passionate about learning, service, and intercultural exchange, this program is perfect for you!
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