Deadline: 20-Jan-2026
The TechGirls Program 2026 invites female students aged 15–17 to participate in a U.S.-based exchange focused on STEM education and careers. The fully funded program covers airfare, visa, housing, meals, local transportation, cultural events, and health insurance, and includes a community-based project upon return. Applications are limited to the first 125 complete submissions per country and close on January 20, 2026, at 12:00 PM EST.
Fully Funded Exchange for Aspiring Women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math
The TechGirls Program is a prestigious exchange opportunity for young women interested in pursuing education and careers in STEM fields. The program empowers participants through hands-on STEM learning, cultural immersion, and professional development in the United States.
Program Benefits
Participants receive a fully funded experience, including:
• Visa fees and processing
• Round-trip international airfare to the United States
• Housing in double-occupancy dormitories
• All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
• Local transportation for group events
• Cultural activities organized by Legacy International
• Emergency health insurance
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
• Age: 15–17 at program start on July 11, 2026 (born between July 12, 2008 and July 11, 2011)
• STEM Skills: Advanced knowledge and strong interest in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics
• English Proficiency: Advanced intermediate level or higher
• Education Commitment: Must attend at least one additional semester of secondary school after returning home
• Project Commitment: Complete a community-based project after the program
• Personal Qualities: Demonstrate maturity, flexibility, and open-mindedness
• U.S. Experience: Preference for candidates with limited or no prior U.S. experience
Ineligible Candidates
• Family members of U.S. Embassy or Consulate staff, U.S. Department of State employees, Legacy International staff, or partner organizations
• Dual U.S. citizens living abroad
• Applicants who have participated in another ECA exchange program within the last three years
Application Requirements
• Independent completion of the application
• All written responses must be original, created without assistance from others or AI tools
• Any plagiarism or use of AI tools (including ChatGPT) will result in disqualification
Selection Process
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Review: Applications are evaluated by independent selection committees of industry leaders and regional experts
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Interviews:
• International semi-finalists: Interviews conducted by U.S. embassy personnel in the candidate’s home country
• U.S. semi-finalists: Interviews conducted by Legacy International -
Evaluation Criteria: Applicants are assessed on STEM aptitude, leadership potential, personal qualities, and community engagement plans
Important Deadlines and Submission Limits
• Application Deadline: January 20, 2026, at 12:00 PM EST
• Submission Limit: Only the first 125 fully completed applications per country will be considered; submissions close automatically once the limit is reached
Why This Program Matters
The TechGirls Program encourages young women to pursue STEM careers, develop leadership skills, and engage in community-based projects. It fosters international connections, cultural exchange, and hands-on STEM learning in a supportive environment.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
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Verify eligibility (age, STEM interest, English proficiency)
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Prepare original written responses and required documents independently
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Submit the application via the official TechGirls portal
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Participate in interviews if selected as a semi-finalist
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Complete all program requirements and a community-based project after returning home
Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Waiting until the last day to submit (applications may close early once 125 submissions per country are received)
• Using AI tools or receiving assistance for written responses
• Failing to meet the age, STEM, or language requirements
• Ignoring the post-program community-based project commitment
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who is eligible to apply?
Female students aged 15–17 with advanced STEM skills, strong English proficiency, and interest in STEM careers.
2. What costs are covered?
The program is fully funded, covering airfare, visa, housing, meals, transportation, cultural activities, and health insurance.
3. Can applicants who have been to the U.S. before apply?
Preference is given to those with limited or no prior U.S. experience; applicants from prior exchanges within three years are not eligible.
4. Can I use AI tools for the application?
No. All responses must be original; any AI assistance will result in disqualification.
5. How many applications will be accepted per country?
Only the first 125 fully completed applications per country will be considered.
6. What happens after the program ends?
Participants are required to complete a community-based project in their home country.
7. When does the program start?
The program begins on July 11, 2026, in the United States.
Conclusion
The TechGirls Program 2026 is a unique, fully funded opportunity for young women to pursue STEM education, gain international experience, and develop leadership and community engagement skills. Timely and careful submission of the application is essential due to the limited slots available per country.
For more information, visit TechGirls.
