Open Call for English Access Microscholarship Program (Iraq)

The English Access Microscholarship Program for Central and Southern Iraq provides educational opportunities for Iraqi youth through English-language instruction, helping participants improve language skills, access higher education, employment opportunities, international exchange programmes, and global engagement. The U.S. Embassy Baghdad Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) is seeking qualified organizations to implement the programme with available funding of up to USD 500,000.

Overview of the English Access Microscholarship Program

The English Access Microscholarship Program for Central and Southern Iraq is an education initiative designed to provide English-language learning opportunities for Iraqi youth.

The programme is supported by the U.S. Embassy Baghdad Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) and aims to strengthen young people’s educational and professional opportunities through English language development.

The programme supports youth by improving:

• English communication skills
• Academic readiness
• Career opportunities
• Access to international exchange programmes
• Participation in global communities

Purpose of the Programme

The main goal of the English Access Microscholarship Program is to help Iraqi youth gain practical English language skills that can improve their future opportunities.

The programme contributes to:

• Higher education access
• Employment preparation
• International communication
• Youth development
• Cross-cultural understanding

By strengthening English proficiency, participants can better engage with educational institutions, professional networks, and global opportunities.

Key Focus Areas

The programme will focus on:

English Language Instruction

Activities should provide structured English learning opportunities, including:

• Language classes
• Communication skills development
• Reading and writing improvement
• Listening and speaking practice

Youth Educational Development

The programme supports youth by helping them:

• Prepare for academic opportunities
• Develop confidence in English communication
• Access learning resources
• Improve future career prospects

Global Engagement Opportunities

English skills can enable participants to:

• Participate in exchange programmes
• Connect with international communities
• Access global educational resources
• Engage in cross-cultural activities

Funding Details

The U.S. Embassy Baghdad Public Diplomacy Section is providing funding support for implementation of the programme.

Total estimated programme funding:

• USD 500,000

Award ceiling:

• USD 500,000

Award floor:

• USD 450,000

The selected organization will use the funding to design, manage, and deliver English-language educational activities for Iraqi youth.

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

• U.S. nonprofit organizations
• Foreign nonprofit organizations
• Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
• Civil society organizations
• Think tanks
• Public educational institutions
• Private educational institutions
• Public international organizations
• Government institutions

Required Organizational Experience

Applicants should demonstrate:

• Experience developing educational programmes
• Experience managing youth-focused initiatives
• Ability to deliver English language instruction programmes
• Experience managing similar international projects

Organizations must also demonstrate one of the following:

• Ability to operate directly in Iraq, or
• Active partnerships with organizations working in Iraq

Why This Programme Matters

English language skills are increasingly important for education, employment, and international participation.

The programme supports Iraqi youth by addressing barriers related to:

• Limited access to quality English education
• Reduced opportunities for international engagement
• Challenges in accessing global academic and professional networks

Improved English skills can help young people:

• Pursue university education
• Improve employability
• Participate in international programmes
• Build professional confidence

How to Apply

Organizations interested in implementing the programme should prepare an application demonstrating their technical and operational capacity.

Step 1: Review Eligibility Requirements

Applicants should confirm that they:

• Are an eligible organization type
• Have relevant programme experience
• Can operate in Iraq or work through Iraqi partners

Step 2: Develop a Programme Proposal

The proposal should explain:

• Educational approach
• English teaching methodology
• Target youth groups
• Programme activities
• Implementation timeline
• Monitoring and evaluation approach
• Organizational capacity

Step 3: Demonstrate Local Capacity

Applicants should describe:

• Previous experience in Iraq
• Local partnerships
• Community engagement strategies
• Ability to reach youth participants

Step 4: Submit Application

Applications will be reviewed based on organizational experience, programme design, feasibility, and alignment with U.S. Mission Iraq objectives.

Selection Considerations

Applications will be assessed based on:

Programme Experience

Reviewers will consider:

• Previous implementation of similar education programmes
• Experience managing youth development activities
• English teaching expertise

Operational Capacity

Applicants should demonstrate:

• Ability to manage funding effectively
• Qualified staff and resources
• Ability to deliver activities in Iraq

Programme Quality

Strong proposals should include:

• Clear learning objectives
• Effective teaching methods
• Realistic implementation plans
• Measurable outcomes

Tips for a Strong Application

Applicants should:

• Highlight previous English education projects
• Demonstrate understanding of Iraqi youth needs
• Include strong monitoring and evaluation systems
• Explain partnerships and local networks
• Present realistic budgets and timelines

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applicants should avoid:

• Submitting proposals without Iraq-based implementation capacity
• Providing unclear education strategies
• Failing to explain youth engagement methods
• Missing evidence of previous programme experience
• Providing incomplete implementation plans

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the English Access Microscholarship Program?

It is an educational programme that provides English language instruction to Iraqi youth to improve access to higher education, employment, and international opportunities.

Who will benefit from the programme?

The programme is designed for Iraqi youth in Central and Southern Iraq who need improved English language skills and educational opportunities.

Who can apply for funding?

Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, NGOs, educational institutions, think tanks, international organizations, and government institutions.

What is the available funding amount?

The programme provides estimated funding of USD 500,000, with awards ranging from USD 450,000 to USD 500,000.

Do organizations need to operate in Iraq?

Applicants must either have the capacity to operate in Iraq or maintain active partnerships with organizations working in Iraq.

What type of activities will be funded?

Supported activities include English language instruction, youth education programmes, communication skills development, and activities supporting academic and professional advancement.

What experience is required?

Applicants must demonstrate experience developing and managing similar educational programmes, particularly those focused on youth and language learning.

Conclusion

The English Access Microscholarship Program for Central and Southern Iraq provides an important opportunity to expand English education access for Iraqi youth. Through qualified implementing organizations, the programme will strengthen language skills, improve educational and employment pathways, and help young people connect with global opportunities.