Applications are now open for the AFS Global STEM Changemakers 2026 Program, a prestigious fully funded virtual exchange initiative designed to empower young people from around the world with the knowledge, skills, and global perspective needed to address today’s most pressing sustainability challenges.
Organized by AFS Intercultural Programs and developed in collaboration with the University of Pennsylvania Center for Social Impact Strategy, this unique 12-week virtual learning experience provides young changemakers with an opportunity to strengthen their STEM knowledge, develop intercultural competencies, and create innovative solutions to real-world environmental and social challenges.
The program is offering 200 full scholarships to eligible youth globally, ensuring that talented students from diverse backgrounds can participate regardless of their financial circumstances.
About the AFS Global STEM Changemakers Program
The AFS Global STEM Changemakers Program is an immersive virtual exchange experience that combines STEM education, intercultural learning, social innovation, and sustainability leadership.
As global challenges such as climate change, environmental degradation, energy transition, and social inequality continue to affect communities worldwide, there is an increasing need for young leaders who can think critically, collaborate across cultures, and develop innovative solutions.
This program has been specifically designed to prepare the next generation of changemakers by providing practical learning experiences that bridge science, technology, sustainability, and social impact.
Participants will engage with students from different countries and cultural backgrounds while exploring some of the world’s most urgent sustainability issues.
What Participants Will Learn
Throughout the 12-week program, scholars will participate in an engaging and interactive curriculum focused on:
1. Sustainability and Global Challenges
Participants will gain a deeper understanding of:
- Climate change
- Environmental sustainability
- Sustainable development
- Energy transition
- Global sustainability goals
- Community resilience
2. STEM Education and Innovation
Students will strengthen their knowledge and skills in STEM-related fields through:
- Interactive learning activities
- Problem-solving exercises
- Analytical thinking projects
- Design thinking methodologies
- Innovation-based learning approaches
3. Intercultural Competence
A major focus of the program is helping participants develop the ability to work effectively across cultures.
Students will learn:
- Cross-cultural communication
- Global citizenship
- Intercultural understanding
- Inclusive leadership
- Collaboration in diverse teams
- Bridge-building across communities
4. Social Innovation and Social Impact
Participants will explore:
- Social entrepreneurship concepts
- Community-centered problem solving
- Human-centered design
- Sustainable impact creation
- Innovation for social good
Social Impact Capstone Project
One of the most exciting aspects of the program is the final capstone project.
During the program, participants will work on social impact presentations that propose innovative solutions to real-world sustainability challenges.
The capstone focuses particularly on:
- Climate action
- Environmental sustainability
- Energy transition
- Community development
- Social innovation
This practical component allows students to apply what they learn while developing solutions that could positively impact communities around the world.
Scholarship Benefits
Selected scholars will receive a comprehensive package of benefits, including:
Full Scholarship Coverage
- Complete participation in the AFS Global STEM Changemakers Program
- Access to all virtual learning sessions
- Participation in collaborative projects and workshops
- Engagement with global peers and mentors
Advanced Certificate
Upon successful completion of the program, participants will earn:
Advanced Certificate on Global Competence for Social Impact
This certificate is jointly awarded by:
- AFS Intercultural Programs
- University of Pennsylvania Center for Social Impact Strategy
Global Alumni Network Access
Graduates will gain access to an exclusive AFS Global STEM alumni platform that offers:
- Continued learning opportunities
- Networking opportunities
- Global connections
- Professional development resources
- Mentorship opportunities
Future Leadership Opportunities
Program alumni become eligible to participate in the AFS Youth Assembly, an international gathering that brings together young leaders working toward the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Dedicated Scholarships for African Youth
As part of its commitment to expanding access and inclusion, AFS has allocated 100 scholarships specifically for young people from:
- Angola
- Ghana
- Nigeria
- Mauritania
- Senegal
This targeted scholarship allocation aims to support youth leadership and innovation across Africa while ensuring greater representation in global sustainability discussions.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
AFS strongly encourages applications from students representing diverse backgrounds.
Importantly:
- A minimum of 20% of scholarship places are reserved for indigenous and native community students.
- Refugees are encouraged to apply.
- Displaced students are encouraged to apply.
- Students from underrepresented communities are highly encouraged to participate.
This commitment reflects the program’s goal of ensuring diverse voices contribute to solving global challenges.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the AFS Global STEM Changemakers 2026 Program, applicants must:
- Be between 15 and 20 years old at the start of the program.
- Have a birthdate between 1 December 2005 and 1 September 2011.
- Demonstrate interest in STEM fields.
- Show enthusiasm for sustainability and social impact.
- Be willing to engage in intercultural learning experiences.
- Participate actively throughout the virtual exchange program.
Program Timeline
Applicants should take note of the following important dates:
Application Opens
2 June 2026
Application Deadline
2 August 2026
Scholarship Decision Announcement
14 August 2026
Program Duration
31 August 2026 – 22 November 2026
Note: The timeline is subject to change.
Why This Opportunity Stands Out
The AFS Global STEM Changemakers Program is more than a virtual exchange initiative. It is a leadership development experience that combines STEM education, sustainability, intercultural competence, and social innovation.
Participants not only gain valuable academic and professional skills but also become part of a global network of young leaders committed to creating a more sustainable and equitable future.
For students passionate about science, technology, climate action, and social impact, this fully funded scholarship represents a unique opportunity to learn, collaborate, and make a difference on a global scale.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit their applications through the official AFS Global STEM Changemakers application portal before the deadline.
Application Deadline: 2 August 2026
For more information about this opportunity, visit here.
Discover more Global Scholarship Opportunities on OFY here.
