AFS Global STEM Accelerators for Young Women

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

The AFS Global STEM Accelerators is an extraordinary, full scholarship program for girls who are active global citizens and energized to help solve some of today’s biggest global challenges.
Women around the world currently make up more than half of the college-educated workforce.  However, STEM fields are made up of only 28% of women. Women and girls who desire to learn more about STEM often face a challenging set of circumstances in fields that are traditionally dominated by men. (See the American Association of University Women for more details). That’s why AFS has created a program dedicated to the future of women in STEM fields. By providing an opportunity for girls from around the world to explore their interests in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, AFS intends to change this trend and open up more possibilities for the perspectives of women with the greater goal of reaching a sustainable future.

BENEFITS
Scholarship winners will participate in 12-week all-virtual programs focusing on emerging and critical STEM skills and fields, global competence education, and social impact (co-developed with the University of Pennsylvania). Scholars will enrich their STEM knowledge and skills through interactive, hands-on curriculum, while developing critical global competencies, including problem-solving, analytical skills, intercultural understanding, and the ability to build bridges across cultures. 

PROGRAM STRUCTURE
The program culminates with team projects and presentations that offer potential solutions to real-world challenges, with an emphasis on climate change and the energy transition. Scholars who complete the program 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.

Applications for Cohort 2 are open until 25 June 2023.

ELIGIBILITY
Applications for the 2023 Global STEM Accelerators are open to young women from anywhere in the world who meet the following criteria:

• Birthdate: 1 October 2005 through 1 September 2008.
  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.
• Interests: Interest in STEM, sustainability, and global competencies
  Curiosity and willingness to interact with diverse global peers and explore new cultures
• 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 wifi connection*
  *if internet or technology accessibility is an issue, AFS may be able to help.
• Diversity:
  Talented young women from all backgrounds who reflect the diversity of populations around the world, particularly underrepresented populations, and students with high financial need, are strongly encouraged to apply!

PROGRAM TIMELINE
Cohort 2 of the Global STEM Accelerators exchange program will run virtually for 12 weeks.
Date: 26 August – 19 November, 2023

APPLICATION
Click on this link to access the Application Form
View the Official Page to learn more about the program