Deadline: 28-Feb-22
Applications are now open for the AFS Global STEM Academies, a full-scholarship study abroad programs for active global citizens who are energized to help solve some of today’s biggest global challenges.
The AFS Global STEM Academies combine digital and in-person learning, gathering youth from more than 14 countries worldwide, in which scholars enrich their sustainability knowledge and STEM skills through interactive, hands-on curriculum, while developing critical global competencies, including problem-solving, analytical skills, intercultural understanding, and social innovation.
The Academies begin with a 12-week virtual e-learning curriculum (from home), engaging in global competence skills, social impact, and sustainability-focused workshops, with content co-developed by AFS and the University of Pennsylvania Center for Social Impact Strategy. The virtual portion of the program culminates with student-led social impact projects and presentations that offer potential solutions to real-world challenges, with an emphasis on sustainability and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, including the topics of climate change and the energy transition.
After completing the virtual curriculum, Academy scholars travel on a 4-week immersive experience to one of the five Academy destinations: Brazil, Egypt, India, the USA, or Belgium & the United Kingdom. Academy programming focuses on critical STEM skills and intercultural understanding for global sustainability, as well as local cultural immersion. Scholars participate in community service and have the opportunity to visit local innovative, sustainability focused operations to see first-hand how companies and organizations are using STEM skills in practice to address industry and societal challenges, particularly around sustainability.
Program scholars earn the Advanced Certificate on Global Competence for Social Impact, awarded by AFS and the University of Pennsylvania Center for Social Impact Strategy.
What’s included in your experience?
- Orientations during your time abroad
- Cultural Tours
- Field Trips
- Worldwide Presence
- 70 Years Experience
- Housing
- Meals
- Airfare
- Airport Pick-up
- Domestic Transport
- Medical Insurance
- 24/7 Emergency Support
- Continuous Support
- Assistance with Application Process
- Visa Application Assistance
Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality: Azerbaijan, Belgium, Brazil, China, Egypt, Germany, India, Indonesia, Mexico, Oman, South Africa, Trinidad & Tobago, United Kingdom and USA.
- Participant age: Must be 15-17.5 years old at the program start date.
- Language: Ability to participate fully, both online and in a classroom setting, in a program conducted entirely in English.
- Interests
- Interest in STEM, sustainability, and global competencies
- Curiosity and willingness to interact with diverse global peers and explore new cultures
- Ability to Travel: Ability and willingness to travel abroad, unaccompanied, to each of the five Academy destinations: Brazil, Egypt, India, USA, Belgium & the United Kingdom. Although applicants can rank their destination preference, AFS will select all scholarship winners’ destinations.
- Technology
- A computer, smartphone or other digital device to access the virtual program content
- An integrated webcam and microphone for participation in online dialogue sessions
- Stable internet or wifi connection
- Diversity: Talented young people from all backgrounds who reflect the diversity of populations around the world, particularly young women, underrepresented populations, and students with high financial need, are strongly encouraged to apply!
For more information, visit https://afs.org/global-stem/academies/#afs-nav-about-the-academies