Study of the United States Institutes (SUSIs) for Secondary Educators and Teachers

The U.S. Embassy in Ukraine invites applications for the 2026 Study of the United States Institutes (SUSIs) for secondary educators and teachers. These intensive summer programs provide opportunities to study American history, culture, and society while preparing participants to enhance U.S.-focused education in Ukraine.

Programme Overview

Institutes use multi-disciplinary and interdisciplinary approaches to explore America250 themes, highlighting U.S. excellence and innovation.
Participants gain resources to teach American history, including key readings such as the Gettysburg Address and the U.S. Constitution, and visit historical and natural U.S. landmarks.
The institutes are not focused on English language teaching; candidates aiming to learn English teaching methods are not prioritized.

Target Audience

Experienced secondary school educators, administrators, teacher trainers, curriculum developers, textbook writers, and Ministry of Education officials.
Candidates should be mid-career professionals, typically aged 30–50, highly motivated, and with substantial experience in secondary education or administration.
Priority given to participants with plans to enhance, update, or develop U.S.-focused curricula or educational materials.

Programme Structure

Duration: Five to six weeks in summer 2026, including a four-week academic residency and a one-week integrated study tour in the U.S.
Two institutes:
- Secondary Educators Institute: Overseen by the University of Montana, Missoula, with sessions at The Institute for Training and Development, Amherst, Massachusetts.
- Administrators Institute: Conducted at California State University, Chico.

Costs and Support

All program costs covered by the U.S. Department of State, including administration, international and domestic travel, housing, subsistence, books, cultural activities, and incidental allowances.

Eligibility

Ukrainian citizens residing in Ukraine.
Must be eligible for a U.S. J-1 student exchange visa.
English language fluency required; semi-final candidates will be interviewed in English.
U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and relatives of U.S. Embassy or Fulbright employees are not eligible.

Expectations

Full participation in all lectures, activities, and assigned readings.
Engagement with participants from diverse backgrounds.

Application Deadline

January 19, 2026, at 23:59 Kyiv time

FAQs
Who can apply? Experienced secondary educators or administrators in Ukraine, aged 30–50.
What is covered? All program-related costs including travel, accommodation, meals, books, and cultural activities.
Do participants need English proficiency? Yes, the program is conducted entirely in English.
Where are the institutes held? Secondary Educators: Montana and Massachusetts; Administrators: California.
Is it for English teaching? No, focus is on U.S. history, culture, and civics.

Conclusion
The 2026 SUSIs offer a unique opportunity for Ukrainian educators to deepen their knowledge of U.S. history and culture, strengthen teaching practices, and develop resources that bring U.S.-focused education into classrooms across Ukraine.