Deadline: 02-Aug-2026
The EducationUSA Opportunity Funds Program (OFP) is an initiative by the U.S. Embassy in Harare aimed at expanding access to U.S. higher education for talented Zimbabwean students.
It helps students overcome financial barriers related to:
- University application processes
- Standardized testing requirements
- Admissions and financial aid guidance
- Travel and pre-departure expenses
The program is implemented through a selected Zimbabwean organization that manages student support activities.
Key Focus Areas
The program supports:
- Access to U.S. undergraduate and graduate education
- Standardized test and application fee coverage
- Intensive academic advising and mentoring
- Financial aid and scholarship guidance
- Online and alternative accredited study pathways
- Pre-departure and travel preparation support
- National coordination of EducationUSA activities in Zimbabwe
Funding Details
- Total grant award: up to US $54,000
- Administrative cost allowance: up to 10%
- Implementation structure: Two-phase program
- Delivery mode: Can be implemented virtually
Program Structure
Phase One: Application and Preparation Support
Activities include:
- Payment of standardized testing fees
- Coverage of application-related expenses
- Certification and documentation support
- Intensive EducationUSA advising sessions
- Guidance on admissions and financial aid
- Support for online and alternative education pathways
- Stipends for regional advisers involved in delivery
Phase Two: Placement and Pre-Departure Support
Activities include:
- Travel arrangement support for admitted students
- Pre-departure orientation and logistics
- Assistance for students entering U.S. institutions (2027–2028 academic year)
- Support for participants in online study programs
Target Beneficiaries
The program primarily supports:
- High-achieving Zimbabwean undergraduate students
- Graduate-level applicants pursuing U.S. studies
- Students facing financial barriers to international education
Selection criteria are developed by EducationUSA advisers and the Public Diplomacy Section in Zimbabwe.
Who is Eligible to Apply?
Eligible implementing organizations include:
- Zimbabwean not-for-profit organizations
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
- Civil society organizations (CSOs)
- Think tanks
- Public and private educational institutions
Applicants must have the capacity to manage student support and program administration.
Who is NOT Eligible?
Generally not eligible:
- Individual applicants
- For-profit companies (unless structured as eligible educational institutions)
- Organizations without legal registration in Zimbabwe
- Entities without experience in education or student support programming
Program Objectives
The initiative aims to:
- Increase access to U.S. higher education for Zimbabwean students
- Reduce financial barriers to international education
- Strengthen EducationUSA advising capacity in Zimbabwe
- Support academic mobility and global learning opportunities
- Improve awareness of U.S. universities and scholarship pathways
Implementation Approach
The program may be delivered:
- Virtually or in hybrid formats
- Through centralized national coordination
- With regional adviser support
- In collaboration with EducationUSA advisers in Zimbabwe
Why This Program Matters
The EducationUSA Opportunity Funds Program helps bridge the gap between talented students and global education opportunities.
It supports:
- Educational equity and access
- International academic mobility
- Student preparedness for U.S. admissions
- Long-term human capital development in Zimbabwe
- Strengthened U.S.–Zimbabwe educational cooperation
Conclusion
The U.S. Embassy Harare EducationUSA Opportunity Funds Program (2026–2027) provides up to US $54,000 to support Zimbabwean organizations in helping talented students access U.S. higher education. Through financial support, advising, and logistical assistance, the program removes barriers and strengthens pathways to international academic success.
For more information, visit Grants.gov.