The Global UGRAD 2023 Program is an exchange program administered by the public diplomacy initiative, World Learning. This fully funded exchange experience is a 9-month international educational program designed to enrich the personal and professional lives of young professionals from all over the world. Through this program, students will gain access to study, service-learning, and internships abroad, as well as have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the culture of the host country.
Overview of the Exchange Program
World Learning’s Global UGRAD 2023 program is a nine-month exchange program that provides participants with an exciting opportunity to study abroad in either the United States or Canada. This distinctive exchange experience brings together a cohort of up to 100 participants from twenty-five different countries to undertake experiential learning accompanied by structured leadership development activities. The maximum duration of the program is nine months but can be shorter depending on the visa requirements of the student’s host country. During their stay, Global UGRAD 2023 participants will have the chance to attend college courses, take part in professional internships, participate in community service projects, and use free online academic resources.
In addition to the academic and professional opportunities, Global UGRAD 2023 participants will also have the chance to explore the culture and history of their host country. They will be able to take part in cultural activities, visit historical sites, and attend cultural events. This exchange program is an excellent opportunity for participants to gain a deeper understanding of the world and to develop their leadership skills.
Eligibility Requirements
In order to be eligible to participate in the Global UGRAD 2023 program, participants must meet the following criteria: they must be between 18-23 years of age, they should currently live in one of the 25 eligible countries, they must be engaged in meaningful community service or extra-curricular activities at the time of application, they must demonstrate sufficient proficiency in English, and they should have strong academic records. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate that they have meaningfully participated in at least one community service activity or another social engagement initiative.
Furthermore, applicants must have a valid passport and be able to travel to the United States for the duration of the program. They must also be able to provide proof of financial support for the duration of their stay in the United States. Finally, applicants must be able to commit to the full duration of the program, which is typically six months.
Benefits of Participating in the Exchange Program
Participating in the Global UGRAD2023 Program provides participants with the chance to gain invaluable leadership skills and international experiences that would prepare them for successful careers after graduation. This exchange experience offers participants broad access to educational resources, professional internships, community service projects, and the opportunity to learn about different cultures and societies. Additionally, participating in the Global UGRAD 2023 Program allows participants to develop cross-cultural communication skills and global citizenship perspectives through strong ties with their host communities.
The exchange program also provides participants with the opportunity to build a global network of contacts and friends. Through the program, participants can gain access to a wide range of resources and support from the Global UGRAD alumni network. This network can provide participants with valuable advice and guidance on career paths, job opportunities, and other professional development opportunities. Furthermore, the exchange program can help participants develop a better understanding of the world and its people, which can be beneficial for their future endeavors.
Application Process
The Global UGRAD 2023 Program application process consists of two steps. First, applicants must complete an online application form to be reviewed by the World Learning staff. This form includes questions about the applicant’s academic background, leadership abilities, language proficiency, hobbies and interests, and community service experience. Once this initial step is completed, applicants must submit official university transcripts, two letters of recommendation, and any other Supporting documents as requested. There is no cost to apply or participate in the exchange program.
Applicants should be aware that the application process is highly competitive and that only a limited number of students will be selected for the program. It is important to take the time to carefully complete the application form and provide all the necessary documents. Additionally, applicants should be prepared to participate in an interview with the World Learning staff as part of the selection process.
Timeline for Program Participation
The timeline for participation in the Global UGRAD 2023 Program is as follows: application submission deadline – typically mid-December of the prior year; notification of acceptance – typically mid-February; visa applications due typically three weeks prior to travel; program start date – typically mid-June; orientation program – usually runs for two weeks; group activities and events – usually occur throughout the duration of the program; end of program celebrations – usually takes place in April; departure from the host country – usually in late April.
During the program, participants will have the opportunity to engage in a variety of activities, such as cultural excursions, volunteer activities, and professional development workshops. Participants will also have the chance to build relationships with their peers from around the world and gain a better understanding of the host country’s culture and customs. Upon completion of the program, participants will receive a certificate of completion and will have the opportunity to share their experiences with their home communities.
Financial Aid Opportunities
World Learning provides financial aid awards for participants in the Global UGRAD 2023 Program. These awards vary based on financial need and potential benefits to the participant’s home country. Participants who receive financial aid awards must operate within the bounds of the award conditions, which include such factors as necessary visa fees and cost of living expenses. Additionally, there are special scholarships available that are reserved for applicants from certain countries.
Applicants must submit a complete financial aid application to be considered for an award. The application includes a detailed budget outlining the estimated costs of the program, as well as a statement of financial need. All financial aid awards are subject to review and approval by World Learning. Applicants should be aware that the amount of financial aid awarded may not cover the full cost of the program.
Cultural Immersion Opportunities
As part of its mission to promote global citizenship and cross-cultural understanding, World Learning offers Global UGRAD 2023 participants a number of unique cultural immersion opportunities. These activities include special cultural excursions to local museums and parks, traditional arts and crafts classes, homestays with local hosts, and volunteer projects in underserved communities.
Academic Resources Available
Participants in the Global UGRAD 2023 Program have access to a wide variety of online academic resources such as online services provided by World Learning, a digital library featuring articles from renowned journals, language resources for English language learners, and online workshops from top universities. Although much of this content is freely available online, World Learning provides additional guidance aimed at helping students get the most out of their academic research and pursuits.
Support Services for Exchange Participants
World Learning believes that giving participants the resources they need to maximize their exchange experience is key to their success while abroad. As such, they provide a comprehensive range of support services to ensure that their participants are safe and comfortable. These services include pre-departure orientations that introduce participants to the culture of their host country and help them connect with other exchange participants before they even leave their home country.
Alumni Testimonials
Alumni of the Global UGRAD 2023 Program have much to share — their stories are filled with adventure, cultural discovery, and personal growth. Through its Crossroads August 2019 Alumni Edition magazine, World Learning has collected over twenty testimonials from former participants who recount how their exchange experiences profoundly shaped their perspectives and opened new doors of opportunity. It’s clear that members of the World Learning community come away from the exchange program feeling inspired and empowered.
