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Emergency Information for American Citizens

Opportunities for Student and Young Professionals
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16 MINUTE READ

Overview

U.S. Embassy Saudi Arabia offers many different programs and exchange opportunities for students and emerging leaders from a variety of fields.  
 

Contact:  

For information on program dates, deadlines, and questions, please contact us.  

  • U.S. Embassy Riyadh Cultural Affairs Office: 011-835-4000 ext. 4778 
  • U.S. Consulate Jeddah Cultural Affairs Office: 012-220-5000 ext. 3095   
  • U.S. Consulate Dhahran Cultural Affairs Office: 013-839-5700 ext. 25850 / 25802 

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Saudi Young Leaders Exchange Program (SYLEP)

SYLEP equips emerging Saudi leaders with the skills and connections to excel in their chosen fields through professional development training in Saudi Arabia and a fully funded 3-week exchange experience in the United States.  

WHO IS ELIGIBLE? Saudi citizens, ages 24-30, who have working-level English proficiency. Nominees should not have prior experience studying in the United States. 

TIMELINE: Nominations are finalized annually in December. 

 

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Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD)

Global UGRAD LogoGlobal UGRAD is a one-semester fully funded academic and cultural exchange semester abroad at an assigned U.S. college or university. The program includes pre-academic English language training (if needed), academic coursework, service-learning opportunities, professional development workshops, and cultural enrichment activities. All academic fields of study are eligible. All participant costs, including international and domestic travel, housing, meals, and health coverage for the duration of the program, are covered.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE? Saudi citizens currently studying in Saudi Arabia (dual U.S./Saudi citizens are ineligible). Must be over 18 years of age and currently enrolled in full-time undergraduate programs, having completed at least their first semester of study. Participants must have at least one semester left to complete at their home institution following the Global UGRAD Program. Must demonstrate a good command of written and spoken English. Applicants will be asked to take the TOEFL test. 

TIMELINE: Applications open in late October, with application deadlines in December.  

WEBSITE: https://www.worldlearning.org/program/global-undergraduate-exchange-program/  

 

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Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES)

The YES program brings high school students to the United States to study in a U.S. high school for an academic year. YES students serve as “youth ambassadors” of their home country, promoting mutual understanding by forming lasting relationships with their host families and communities. Participants live with a host family, attend an American high school, acquire leadership skills, and engage in activities to learn about U.S. society and values; they also help educate Americans about their home country and culture. 

WHO IS ELIGIBLE? Saudi citizens ages 15-17; must be currently enrolled in a Saudi high school and demonstrate a good command of written and spoken English. 

TIMELINE: Applications are due in late October; interviews are conducted in November; final selections are made in December. 

WEBSITE: https://www.amideast.org/our-work/find-a-scholarship/high-school-and-younger/yes-program  

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EducationUSA Academy

The EducationUSA Academy is a pre-college academic enrichment program for international high school students offering specialized college preparatory content, college-level writing workshops, campus visits, and cultural activities. Students gain an insider’s perspective on higher education in the United States while getting the chance to experience and enjoy campus life.

Website: https://www.edusaacademy.org/  

Education