AFS Global STEM Changemakers: A Virtual Exchange Program

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Scholarship winners for the 2026 Global STEM Changemakers virtual exchange program will be announced by 14 August 2026.

The AFS Global STEM Changemakers is a 12-week digital program (from home), engaging in content on global competence skills, social impact, and sustainability-focused workshops, with content co-developed by AFS and the University of Pennsylvania. This program culminates with student-led social impact 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.

• The 12-week virtual program consists of both “live” synchronous activities (dialogue sessions on Zoom with your global peers, with AFS facilitators) each week, as well as self-paced/asynchronous content (online, interactive modules, games, and quizzes). 
• Over the course of the 12 weeks, you’ll learn about sustainability and social innovation, collaborate with your global peers, and design your very own social impact project–which you’ll record and present digitally to the University of Pennsylvania Center for Social Impact Strategy.
• Participation will require approximately 3-4 hours of your time each week. 
• The virtual program is designed to be flexible enough that it can fit around your school schedule.
• The live sessions will be offered at multiple times to accommodate diverse time zones and schedules.
• Participants will be able to indicate desired scheduling preferences for the live sessions.
• Please be advised that participation in the virtual curriculum is mandatory for all Global STEM Changemakers scholars.

• Participants must be 15-20 years old at the program start date (Birthdate: 1 Dec 2005 – 1 September 2011).
• Must be able to participate fully online in a program conducted entirely in English.
• Demonstrated interest in sustainability, STEM, and interacting with different cultures.

• 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 the following forms:

• Parent/Guardian Permission Form (only required for minors)
• Recommendation Letter

These forms can be accessed from your application portal. Please refer to the due date in the application portal. Late forms will not be accepted, and applications with missing forms will be considered incomplete.

The parental consent form, academic history form, and recommendation letter form can be verified with a handwritten signature or a digital signature. Both are acceptable.

Please include your grades from your most recently completed academic year or term. You will also need to include your grades from the two previous years.

You may request a letter of recommendation from any teacher, tutor, mentor, or counselor who can provide us with more information about your academic and extracurricular merits.

We strongly recommend against the sole use of ChatGPT or other AI tools on your application. Your essays and program communications should be in your own words and should not be written by someone else on your behalf.

Those who have previously received a scholarship to participate in the AFS Global STEM Accelerators, AFS Global STEM Academies or AFS Global STEM Changemakers: Australia – New Zealand are not eligible to apply.