AFS Global STEM Innovators: United States

The AFS Global STEM Innovators program consists of two parts. The program begins with a 5-week, virtual global competence education program, and culminates with an in-person sustainability workshop. The online program and workshop will focus on STEM, global competence, and sustainability, with an emphasis on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

• Full program tuition for the 5-week online course and 1-week local workshop.
• AFS Global Competence Certificate, validating your program experience and reflecting your new skills.
• All costs and activities associated with the local workshop, including full room & board.
• Domestic travel to the in-person workshop.
• 24/7 Emergency support.

Age: Applicants must be 15–17 years old at the program start date (Birthdate: Between 1 January 2009 – 30 April 2011).

Residence: The Innovators programs are designed to create positive local impact. Applicants should be legal residents of the United States. 

Once the application closes, all applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Scholarship winners for the 2026 Global STEM Innovators: United States will be announced on May 1 via email.

• 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 you are unable to access any of the above, AFS may be able to help.

In addition to filling out your online application you will also be asked to submit a:

• Parent/Guardian Permission form
• Proof of Identification

Mandatory to-do items can be accessed in the application portal once you complete your pre-application.

Your Global STEM Innovators application must be completed no later than 10 April, 2026. Late forms will not be accepted, and applications with missing forms will be considered incomplete and not be considered for the scholarship.

The Parental Consent form can be verified with a handwritten signature or a digital signature. Both are acceptable.

Those who have previously received a scholarship to participate in the AFS Global STEM Innovators are not eligible to participate a second time. However, Innovators scholars are welcome to apply for the Global STEM Academies and Accelerators programs in future years, as long as applicants meet the eligibility requirements.