The AFS Global STEM Academies combine digital and in-person learning, gathering youth from 15 countries worldwide, in which scholars enrich their sustainability knowledge and STEM skills through interactive, hands-on curriculum, while developing critical global competencies, including problem-solving, analytical skills, intercultural understanding, and social innovation.
The Academies begin with a 12-week virtual e-learning curriculum (from home), engaging in global competence skills, social impact, and sustainability-focused workshops, with content co-developed by AFS and the University of Pennsylvania Center for Social Impact Strategy. The virtual portion of the program culminates with student-led social impact projects and presentations that offer potential solutions to real-world challenges, with an emphasis on sustainability and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, including the topics of climate change and the energy transition.
After completing the virtual curriculum, Academy scholars travel on a 4-week immersive experience to one of the four Academy destinations: Brazil, China, Egypt, or India.
Program scholars 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.
Requirements
Nationality/Citizenship or Country of Legal Residence*
Azerbaijan
Brazil
China
Egypt
Hungary
India
Indonesia
Japan
Malaysia
Mexico
Singapore
South Africa
Spain
Trinidad & Tobago
United Kingdom
USA
1 September 2007 through 1 April 1 2010
Participant Age: Must be 15-17.5 years old at the program start date
Language
English
Ability to participate fully, both online and in a classroom setting, in a program conducted entirely in English.
Ability to travel
Ability and willingness to travel abroad, unaccompanied, to any of the four Academy destinations: Brazil, China, Egypt, and India. Although applicants can rank their destination preference, AFS will select all scholarship winners’ destinations.
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 Wi-Fi connection*
Benefits
Orientations during your time abroad
Cultural Tours
Field Trips
AFS Worldwide Presence
Intercultural Learning & Emotional Support
Housing
Meals
Airfare
Airport Pick-up
Domestic Transport
Medical Insurance
24/7 Emergency Support
Continuous Support
Assistance with Application Process
Visa Application Assistance
After the mandatory virtual exchange, for approximately 4 weeks, scholars will travel to and participate in of the four Academy destinations. The dates of the 2025 in-person Academies are listed below.
Brazil: July 12 – August 8, 2025
China: July 8 – August 7, 2025
Egypt: July 18 – August 17, 2025
India: July 18 – August 17, 2025
