Global Undergraduate Exchange Program - Fully Funded Scholarships (Global UGRAD)

The Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD) in Pakistan, administered by the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP), offers a unique opportunity for Pakistani students to study in the United States for one semester as part of a non-degree program. This program is designed to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the United States through cultural and academic exchange.

What is UGRAD?

The Global UGRAD program is a prestigious international exchange program funded by the U.S. Department of State. It provides Pakistani undergraduate students with the opportunity to experience American higher education, learn about American culture, and share their own culture with their peers in the United States. The program is highly competitive and selects students based on their academic performance, leadership potential, and commitment to community service.

The program covers all expenses, including tuition, room and board, travel, and health insurance. Participants are placed at accredited U.S. universities and colleges, where they enroll in undergraduate courses in their fields of study. In addition to academic coursework, students are required to engage in community service activities and complete a cultural exchange component that includes giving presentations about Pakistan and participating in American cultural events.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Global UGRAD program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Citizenship: Applicants must be Pakistani citizens and currently reside in Pakistan.
2. Age: Applicants should be between 18 and 24 years old.
3. Educational Status: Applicants must be enrolled in a university in Pakistan and have completed at least one semester of their undergraduate degree at the time of application. Typically, students in their 14th year of education, which is the 2nd year of a Bachelor’s degree program, are considered.
4. Academic Performance: Applicants should have a strong academic record, with a minimum of 50% marks in their previous academic year.
5. English Language Proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through their academic records or standardized tests like TOEFL, though the TOEFL exam is not required at the time of application.
6. Commitment to Returning to Pakistan: Applicants must commit to returning to Pakistan upon completion of the program and to completing their degree at their home institution.

Ineligibility Criteria

Certain individuals are ineligible for the Global UGRAD program, including:

• U.S. citizens or dual nationals.
• Individuals who have already completed an undergraduate degree.
• Employees of USEFP, the U.S. Department of State, or related entities, and their immediate family members.
• Previous participants in the Global UGRAD program or any other U.S. government-funded exchange program.

General Program Information

The Global UGRAD program is more than just an academic exchange. It is designed to help students develop their leadership skills, enhance their understanding of global issues, and foster long-lasting ties between Pakistan and the United States. During their stay in the U.S., participants are not only expected to excel academically but also to participate in cultural exchange activities that allow them to share Pakistani culture with Americans and learn about American life and values.

Participants will live in on-campus housing with other students, providing them with the full American university experience. They will have access to a wide range of resources, including libraries, laboratories, and extracurricular activities.

Application Process

The application process for the Global UGRAD program is highly competitive and involves several steps:

1. Online Application: Applicants must complete an online application form on the USEFP website. The application requires personal information, academic records, and essays on specific topics.
2. Supporting Documents: Applicants must submit academic transcripts, two letters of recommendation, and a copy of their CNIC or passport.
3. Shortlisting: After the initial review, shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews.
4. Interviews: The interview is an essential part of the selection process and helps the selection committee assess the applicant's communication skills, leadership potential, and motivation for participating in the program.
5. Final Selection: Successful candidates are selected based on their academic performance, interview results, leadership potential, and commitment to community service.

Selection Process

The selection process for the Global UGRAD program is rigorous and seeks to identify students who not only excel academically but also demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to community service. The selection committee evaluates applications based on the following criteria:

• Academic Merit: Strong academic performance is essential for selection.
• Leadership Potential: Applicants who have demonstrated leadership in their academic or community activities are given preference.
• Interpersonal Skills: The ability to adapt to a new environment and work effectively with others is crucial for success in the program.
• Cultural Adaptability: The program seeks students who are open to new experiences and are willing to share their culture with others.

During the Program

While in the United States, Global UGRAD participants are required to:

• Enroll in Full-Time Courses: Students must enroll in a full course load as defined by their host institution. They are expected to maintain good academic standing throughout the semester.
• Participate in Community Service: A key component of the Global UGRAD program is community service. Participants are required to complete a minimum of 20 hours of community service during their stay.
• Engage in Cultural Exchange: Participants are encouraged to engage in cultural exchange activities, such as giving presentations about Pakistan, participating in cultural events, and interacting with American students and community members.

Post-Program

Upon returning to Pakistan, Global UGRAD alumni are expected to:

• Complete Their Degree: Participants must return to their home university to complete their undergraduate degree.
• Share Their Experience: Alumni are encouraged to share their experiences in the United States with their peers, family, and community. Many alumni engage in outreach activities, such as giving presentations, writing articles, or participating in social media campaigns.
• Join the Alumni Network: Global UGRAD alumni become part of a global network of exchange program alumni. This network provides opportunities for continued professional development, networking, and community service.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How can I apply for the Global UGRAD program?

   • Applications are submitted online through the USEFP website. Be sure to review the eligibility criteria and prepare the required documents before applying.

2. Do I need to take the TOEFL exam?

   • While English language proficiency is required, the TOEFL exam is not necessary at the time of application. However, selected candidates may be required to take the TOEFL as part of the pre-departure process.

3. What expenses are covered by the program?

   • The program covers tuition, room and board, travel, health insurance, and a small allowance for books and incidentals.

4. Can I work while studying in the U.S. under the Global UGRAD program?

   • No, participants are not allowed to work during the program. The focus is on academics, cultural exchange, and community service.

5. What happens after I complete the program?

   • After completing the program, participants return to Pakistan to complete their degree. They are also encouraged to engage with the Global UGRAD alumni network.

For more detailed information and to apply, visit the Global UGRAD page on USEFP’s website.