Application Deadline: July 1st, 2024
Applications are now open for the 2024 AFS Global STEM Accelerators Program. Scholarship winners will participate in 12 week all-virtual programs focusing on emerging and critical STEM skills and fields, global competence education, and social impact (co-developed with the University of Pennsylvania). Scholars will enrich their STEM knowledge and skills through interactive, hands-on curriculum, while developing critical global competencies, including problem-solving, analytical skills, intercultural understanding, and the ability to build bridges across cultures.
The program culminates with team projects and presentations that offer potential solutions to real-world challenges, with an emphasis on climate change and the energy transition. Scholars who complete the program earn the Advanced Certificate on Global Competence for Social Impact, awarded by AFS and the University of Pennsylvania Center for Social Impact Strategy. bp, a global energy company, provides funding that supports these scholarships.
Eligibility Requirement
Participant age:
- Must be 15-17.5 years old at the program start date
English
Ability to participate fully, both online and in a classroom setting, in a program conducted entirely in English.
Interest
- Interest in STEM, sustainability, and global competencies
- Curiosity and willingness to interact with diverse global peers and explore new cultures
Technology
- A computer, smartphone or other digital device to access the virtual program content*
- An integrated webcam and microphone for participation in online dialogue sessions*
- Stable internet or wifi connection*
*if internet or technology accessibility is an issue, AFS may be able to help.
Diversity
- Talented young women from all backgrounds who reflect the diversity of populations around the world, particularly underrepresented populations, and students with high financial need, are strongly encouraged to apply!
Dates:
The 12-week all-virtual Global STEM Accelerators exchange program will run in two cohorts in 2024:
Cohort 1: May 4 – August 4, 2024
Cohort 2: August 24 – November 24, 2024
Selection Criteria
Benefit
- AFS Global STEM Accelerators are 12-week digital programs (from home), engaging in content on global competence skills, social impact, and sustainability-focused workshops, with content co-developed by AFS and the University of Pennsylvania. This program culminates with student-led social impact projects and presentations that offer potential solutions to real-world challenges, with an emphasis on climate change and the energy transition.
- Scholars who complete the program earn the Advanced Certificate on Global Competence for Social Impact, awarded by AFS and the University of Pennsylvania Center for Social Impact Strategy.
Timeline:
- May 1: Application for Cohort 2 opens
- May 4 – Aug 4: Cohort 1 virtual exchange
- Jul 1: Application deadline for Cohort 2
- Jul 24: Admissions decisions for Cohort 2 announced via email
- Aug 24 – Nov 24: Cohort 2 virtual exchange
For More Info: AFS Global STEM Accelerators Program
