Applications are now open for the AFS Global STEM Academies, a full scholarship program for teens with a keen interest in sustainability and a desire to collaborate on solving some of today’s biggest global challenges. Global STEM scholars enrich their sustainability knowledge and STEM skills through an interactive, hands-on curriculum, while developing critical global competencies, including problem-solving, analytical skills, intercultural understanding, and social innovation.
The program is run by AFS Intercultural Programs, a global not-for-profit intercultural learning organization, and the scholarships are sponsored by bp, a global integrated energy company. The program is designed to equip the next generation of STEM leaders and changemakers with access to the education, skills, and knowledge needed to help the world transition to a more sustainable future.
Students ages 15-17.5, spanning 15 countries worldwide, are welcome to apply.
Applications are due January 15, 2024. Learn more: afs.org/global-stem/academies.
What are the AFS Global STEM Academies?
The Academies are full-scholarship, 16-week study abroad programs for students interested in STEM and sustainability. All scholars begin with a 12-week virtual curriculum (online) in sustainability and social innovation, co-developed by AFS and the University of Pennsylvania Center for Social Impact Strategy. Then, scholars travel for four weeks to one of five Academy destinations in 2024: Brazil, China, Egypt, India, or the USA. Upon successful completion, scholars earn the Advanced Certificate on Global Competence for Social Impact, awarded by AFS and the University of Pennsylvania CSIS, and join the AFS global alumni community.
Why apply for this program?
The AFS Global STEM Academies provide a unique way for students to:
- Gain key global competencies through interactive, intercultural experiences, and develop the skills necessary to thrive in global organizations.
- Develop critical STEM skills and explore social impact through real-life case studies, innovations, and careers, including opportunities to meet STEM industry leaders.
- Earn a certificate from AFS & the University of Pennsylvania Center for Social Impact Strategy to reflect new skills in STEM and social impact.
- Gain the skills, experience, and confidence to become a changemaker.
- Become part of a global community. Program alumni are invited to access networking events, professional development opportunities, a global youth conference, and more.
The program is part of the broader AFS Global STEM Changemakers Initiative, a five-year plan set to provide more than 5,000 diverse young people and educators with immersive learning experiences through STEM, global competence, and sustainability-focused intercultural exchange programs worldwide.
About AFS
AFS Intercultural Programs is a global not-for-profit network that provides intercultural learning opportunities to help people develop the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to create a more just and peaceful world. Through international exchange programs, education initiatives, volunteerism and advocacy, AFS empowers people from all backgrounds with essential global skills—and the passion for making a difference. AFS Intercultural Programs leverages the power and reach of 56 National AFS Organizations working together to accelerate local, global, and collective impact. www.afs.org.
About bp
Bp is a global integrated energy company that is reimagining energy for people and our planet. It has set out an ambition to be a net zero company by 2050, to help the world reach net zero, and a strategy for delivering on that ambition.