The TechGirls Summer Exchange Program 2026 is a fully funded initiative by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, designed to empower young women interested in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). The program facilitates an immersive experience in the United States, combining hands-on learning with cultural exchange.

  • 🗓️ Application Dates: Opens Dec 11, 2025 at 8:00 AM EST; closes Jan 20, 2026 at 12:00 PM EST.
  • ⏳ Limited Slots: Only the first 125 fully completed applications per country/territory will be considered; no exceptions.
  • 🏆 Selection Process: Applications reviewed by independent committees; interviews conducted by U.S. embassy personnel for international candidates and Legacy International for U.S. candidates.
  • 🌍 Eligibility – Countries: Sub-Saharan Africa, East Asia & Pacific, Europe & Eurasia, Middle East & North Africa, South & Central Asia, Western Hemisphere, and USA.
  • 🎂 Eligibility – Age: Must be 15–17 years old at exchange start (July 11, 2026); born between July 12, 2008 and July 11, 2011.
  • 🔬 STEM Focus: Demonstrated advanced skills and interest in science, technology, engineering, and math; aim to pursue higher education or careers in STEM.
  • 🗣️ Language & Character: Strong English skills, maturity, flexibility, open-mindedness, and commitment to community project post-exchange.
  • 🎓 Education Requirement: Must attend at least one more semester of secondary school after returning home.
  • 🌐 Travel Restrictions: Preference for candidates with limited/no U.S. experience; ineligible if visited the U.S. under ECA programs in the last 3 years or are family of U.S. Embassy/Legacy staff.
  • 🤖 AI & Originality Rule: All application responses must be original; use of AI tools (like ChatGPT) or copying from others is prohibited and leads to disqualification.

Designation

Participant in the TechGirls Summer Exchange Program

Research Area

10 Master’s Students at Universität Hamburg, Germany
Read more10 Master's Students at Universität Hamburg, Germany

STEM Education and Career Development

Location

Various cities in the United States, including Austin, Cincinnati, Denver, Detroit, Kansas City, and Seattle.

Eligibility/Qualification

  • Age between 15-17 years (born between July 12, 2008, and July 11, 2011).
  • Must be from one of the eligible countries listed below.
  • Demonstrable passion for STEM topics with advanced skills.
  • Intent to pursue a STEM education and career.
  • Proficiency in the English language.
  • Commitment to completing community-based initiatives following the program.

Eligible Countries:

  • Sub-Saharan Africa (AF): Cameroon, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, Zambia
  • East Asia and Pacific (EAP): Cambodia, Fiji, Indonesia, Mongolia, Taiwan, Vietnam
  • Europe and Eurasia (EUR): Albania, Cyprus, Greece, Kosovo, Montenegro, Türkiye
  • Middle East and North Africa (NEA): Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, Palestinian Territories, Tunisia
  • South and Central Asia (SCA): Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
  • Western Hemisphere (WHA): Costa Rica, Ecuador, Panama, Peru, Suriname

Job Description

Italian Government Scholarship for MSc and PhD Students
Read moreItalian Government Scholarship for MSc and PhD Students

Participants will engage in an Interactive Tech Camp at Virginia Tech for three weeks, focusing on cutting-edge technology and exploring various STEM career options. The program also includes educational tours of multiple U.S. cities to enhance participants’ understanding of STEM careers and their practical implications.

How to Apply

Interested candidates can apply online for the TechGirls Summer Exchange Program. For detailed information and to access the application, visit the official program page.

Last Date to Apply

20 January 2026

Apply