The U.S. Embassy Dhaka is currently accepting applications for the 2021-2022 Global UGRAD Exchange Program.

Global UGRAD is an intensive academic program with a purpose to provide undergraduate student leaders with in-depth exposure to U.S. society, culture, and academic institutions by engaging in substantive academic exchanges at colleges and universities across America. This program will provide full scholarships to outstanding students from countries around the world– including Bangladesh – for one semester of non-degree undergraduate study at accredited U.S. institutions for a semester in fall 2020 or spring 2021. Priority will be given to underrepresented and underserved applicants. All academic fields of study are eligible. Scholarships will be awarded for one semester (approximately four months) depending upon the applicant’s interests and availability, as well as placement options and the availability of funds.

Global UGRAD participants will be enrolled full-time in undergraduate course work chosen from a host institution’s existing curriculum to allow students ample opportunity for substantive interaction with U.S. faculty and students and exposure to U.S. academic and classroom culture. In addition, to help ensure students are successful in their new academic environments, host institutions will offer tailored instruction on topics including academic research and writing, critical thinking, time management, note-taking, and studying for and taking tests. Participants will live on campus with American peers.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible to apply for the scholarship, interested candidates must:

• Be Bangladeshi citizens under 25 years of age (at least 18 years of age) and not dual citizens or permanent residents of the U.S., or any other country.
• Be currently enrolled as full-time undergraduate students, having completed at least one semester or have one semester remaining upon return to their home institution.
• Be proficient in both written and spoken English at a level sufficient to engage in university-level study.
• Have demonstrated leadership skills.
• Be committed to returning to their Bangladesh universities upon completion of the program.
• Have little or no prior experience in the United States.
• Be willing and able to fully participate in an intensive academic program and community service.
• Be adaptable and ready to engage in American university life, prepared to share accommodations with Americans of diverse backgrounds, religions, and ethnicities, and able to adjust to cultural and social practices different than those in Bangladesh.

For more information, visit US Embassy.