TechGirls Program 2026 – Fully Funded STEM Exchange for Young Girls

Job Description

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Applications are now open for the TechGirls Program 2026, a prestigious, fully funded U.S.-based summer exchange initiative designed to empower young girls in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

TechGirls expands the global STEM talent pipeline by providing hands-on learning, mentorship, and real-world exposure to future career pathways. The program targets girls aged 15–17 from the United States and select countries worldwide who demonstrate strong academic ability and passion for technology and innovation.

Program Overview

In 2026, TechGirls will bring together 111 international participants from 37 eligible countries alongside 13 U.S. peers for a transformative experience that combines:

• A 3-week immersive experience in the United States
• A 7-month mentorship and leadership journey (pre- and post-exchange)

Core Experience

• 23-day interactive STEM program hosted in partnership with Virginia Tech University
• Hands-on technology camps exploring emerging technologies and STEM career paths
• Exposure to academic and professional opportunities in science and technology fields

Community & Career Immersion

After the university program, participants travel to one of the following U.S. cities for deeper community engagement and career exploration:

• Austin
• Cincinnati
• Denver
• Detroit
• Kansas City
• Seattle

Post-Program Impact

Upon returning home, participants lead community-based STEM projects supported by seven months of mentorship. Since 2012, TechGirls alumni have reached over 44,000 community members worldwide through these initiatives.

Program Benefits (Fully Funded)

The TechGirls Program covers all major expenses, including:

• U.S. visa fees (for international participants)
• Round-trip international airfare to and from the United States
• Domestic travel within the U.S. (where applicable)
• Accommodation throughout the program
  • Dormitory housing at Virginia Tech (double occupancy)
  • Hotel accommodation in Washington, D.C. (double occupancy)
• All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
• Local transportation for program activities
• Educational, cultural, and networking events
• Emergency health insurance coverage

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be female students aged 15–17 at the start of the program (July 11, 2026)
  • Born between July 12, 2008 – July 11, 2011
• Be citizens and current residents of one of the 2026 participating countries or territories
• Demonstrate strong academic performance and interest in STEM disciplines
• Intend to pursue higher education or careers in STEM, especially technology
• Possess advanced intermediate English proficiency
• Show maturity, adaptability, and openness to new cultures
• Commit to returning to at least one additional semester of secondary school
• Be willing to complete a community-based STEM project after the exchange

Eligible Regions & Countries

• Sub-Saharan Africa: Cameroon, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, Zambia
• East Asia & Pacific: Cambodia, Fiji, Indonesia, Mongolia, Taiwan, Vietnam
• Europe & Eurasia: Albania, Cyprus, Greece, Kosovo, Montenegro, Türkiye
• Middle East & North Africa: Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, Palestinian Territories, Tunisia
• South & Central Asia: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
• Western Hemisphere: Costa Rica, Ecuador, Panama, Peru, Suriname
• United States of America

Additional Notes

• Preference is given to applicants with little or no prior travel to the United States
• Applicants who have participated in other U.S. Department of State exchange programs within the last three years are not eligible
• Immediate family members of U.S. Embassy staff, U.S. Department of State employees, or partner organizations are not eligible
• Dual U.S. citizens living abroad are not eligible for participation

Application Timeline

• Application Opens: December 11, 2025 — 8:00 AM (EST)
• Application Closes: January 20, 2026 — 12:00 PM (Noon EST)

Why Apply?

The TechGirls Program offers more than a summer experience — it builds future STEM leaders, global networks, and real-world impact. If you’re a young girl passionate about technology and ready to explore global opportunities, this program is designed for you.