educational programs and scholarships
The Iraqi Young The Iraqi Young Leaders Exchange Program (IYLEP)
November 28, 2007
APPLICATION DEADLINE: THURSDAY, JANUARY 3, 2008
The United States Embassy in Iraq and U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs are pleased to offer a rewarding exchange program for young Iraqi high school students in the United States for Summer 2008. The program is part of a 2006 Presidential Initiative. It was announced by President Bush in agreement with Prime Minister Nouri Al-Maliki during a visit of the Prime Minister to the White House. It is a one-month scholarship program for high-school students, ages 15-17, to participate in leadership development and civic education. The program covers all participants’ expenses including travel, accommodation, living allowance, funding for academic material and health insurance.
This year’s program is being administered by three non-profit organizations: American Development Foundation, Amideast and Relief International. All interested students are encouraged to apply through any of the organizations’ web sites. Students will have the unique opportunity of living with an American family, improving their English skills and participating in leadership programs and training. This year’s program is looking to send 160 qualified young men and women from Iraq using the following criteria:
- Are able to obtain a G passport by March 1, 2008 if chosen
- Born between September 1, 1990 and June 15, 1993
- Have excellent record of academic achievement
- Are citizens of Iraq and currently living in the country
- Demonstrate flexibility and commitment to promoting cross cultural understanding
- Are nationals of Iraq currently living in Iraq
- Are not U.S. citizens or U.S. permanent residents, and were not born in the United States
- Meet minimum English proficiency requirement
- Have not previously participated in a U.S.-government sponsored exchange program
Any questions regarding the IYLEP program can be addressed to:
Patrick Ventrell, Assistant Cultural Affairs Officer
U.S. Embassy- Baghdad, Iraq
Email: VentrellPH@state.gov