FLEX (Future Leaders Exchange) Abroad Scholarship is an international educational exchange program funded by the U.S. Department of State.
The scholarship aims to promote mutual understanding between the United States and countries of the former Soviet Union by offering scholarships to high school students.
The FLEX Abroad Scholarship provides an opportunity for students from participating countries to spend an academic year in the United States, living with a host family and attending an American high school.
The program is designed to develop leadership skills, foster intercultural understanding, and promote English language proficiency.
The selected participants receive a scholarship that covers the cost of travel to and from the United States, a monthly stipend for living expenses, health insurance, and support services throughout the program. The scholarship also includes pre-departure orientation, on-program support, and re-entry support upon completion of the exchange year.
FLEX participants are expected to actively engage in their host communities, attend school regularly, participate in community service activities, and serve as cultural ambassadors for their home countries. The program provides an immersive cultural experience and encourages participants to develop lifelong connections and leadership skills.
Who is Eligible?
Applicants must be a:
•U.S. citizen
•15-18.5 years of age at start of program
•Enrolled in high school at the time of application
•Do not have any immediate family members who work at the U.S. Department of State, U.S. Agency for International Development, or public or private organizations that are under contract or grant agreement with the U.S. Department of State on U.S. Department of State exchange programs
•Have not previously participated in the Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Abroad, National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y), Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX), Youth Leadership Program (participants who traveled overseas only), or Youth Ambassadors Program.
How to Apply?
Applying for the FLEX Abroad Scholarship is a straightforward process:
Create an AIS account and fill out the online application form provided by the scholarship program.
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Benefits of the Scholarship
The FLEX Abroad Scholarship offers a range of benefits that extend far beyond financial assistance. Here are some benefits for recipients:
Educational Opportunities: The scholarship provides students with the chance to study abroad, often in the United States, for an entire academic year. This immersive experience exposes them to new educational systems, teaching methods, and curriculum, broadening their knowledge and perspectives.
Cultural Exchange: Living and studying in a different country exposes scholarship recipients to diverse cultures, customs, and traditions. They develop cross-cultural understanding, adaptability, and respect for different viewpoints. These skills are invaluable in an increasingly globalized world.
Language Proficiency: The FLEX Abroad Scholarship offers an excellent opportunity for students to improve their English language skills. Immersion in an English-speaking environment enhances fluency, communication abilities, and confidence in using the language effectively.
Personal Growth: Studying abroad encourages personal growth and independence. Scholars learn to navigate new environments, overcome challenges, and develop resilience. They gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their own cultural identity, fostering self-awareness and maturity.
Networking and Connections: The scholarship program facilitates connections with students from different countries, as well as professionals and mentors.