Applications for the Tomorrow’s Leaders Program Academic Year 2025–2026 are now open(Fully-funded for youth in MENA)
The Tomorrow’s Leaders Program, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI), is now accepting applications for the 2025–2026 academic year. This prestigious program offers fully funded undergraduate and graduate scholarships to exceptional students from socioeconomically underserved backgrounds in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
About the Program
Launched in 2006, the Tomorrow’s Leaders Program equips students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary for effective leadership. Participants study at top American-style universities in the region, such as the American University of Beirut, the American University in Cairo, and the Lebanese American University. These institutions emphasize liberal arts education, fostering critical thinking and creative problem-solving.
Beyond academics, students engage in internships, civic activities, and enrichment workshops, applying their classroom knowledge to real-world challenges. The program also includes a vibrant community, mentorship, and personal development support. Undergraduate participants have the opportunity to study in the U.S. for a semester, broadening their global perspectives. Graduates join a network of over 1,000 alumni making a difference across the MENA region.
What Does the Program Cover?
- Tuition and Enrollment Fees (Up to 4 years for undergraduate students, 2 years for graduate students)
- University Health Insurance
- Entrance Visa and Residency Permit Fees
- Student Housing
- Monthly Living Stipend (During TL activities)
- Textbook Allowance
- Laptop (For use during the program)
- Two Round-Trip Tickets to home country per year
- Civic Leadership and Career-Oriented Workshops
- Internship Opportunities
- Faculty Mentorship and Guidance
- Study Abroad Opportunity in the U.S. (Undergraduate students only)
- Graduate Assistantships or Research Assistantships (Graduate students only)
Application Timeline
- August 30, 2024: Application opens
- November 29, 2024: Application deadline
- December 2024: Initial application review
- January 2025: Interviews with program staff, U.S. Embassy representatives, and alumni
- February–April 2025: Standardized tests (TOEFL, SAT) and university consideration
- May–July 2025: Conditional offers from partner universities
- June–July 2025: Online English intensive for applicants with low TOEFL/IELTS scores
- August 2025: Pre-departure orientation and leadership workshops, followed by travel to universities
Fields of Study
Participants can pursue a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs at the American University of Beirut, the American University in Cairo, and the Lebanese American University. Graduate applicants may need to complete separate applications for the partner institutions, depending on the university.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must be citizens of one of the following MENA countries: Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Syria, Tunisia, West Bank/Gaza, or Yemen. U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents are not eligible.
- Undergraduate Applicants: High school seniors or 2024 graduates, with additional eligibility for 2023 graduates from specific countries. Applicants must demonstrate strong academic credentials, English proficiency (TOEFL iBT score of 80), financial need, and leadership potential.
- Graduate Applicants: Must meet the host university’s admission requirements, demonstrate financial need, and possess strong academic credentials and leadership potential.
FAQs
For more information about the program, eligibility, and the application process, please visit the program’s FAQ section.
Apply Now
Applications for the Tomorrow’s Leaders Program for the 2025–2026 academic year are open. Don’t miss this opportunity to become a future leader in the MENA region.
