U.S. Department of State TechGirls Exchange Program 2026 for Young Women in STEM (Fully Funded to the United States)

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Application Deadline: January 20, 2026, at 12:00 PM (Noon EST)

Applications are now open for the 2026 U.S. Department of State TechGirls Exchange Program—a prestigious, fully funded summer exchange program that empowers the next generation of young women leaders in STEM. Designed to expand the global talent pipeline in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, TechGirls connects outstanding teenage girls from around the world with hands-on learning, mentorship, and cultural exchange in the United States.

About the TechGirls Program

Since its inception, the TechGirls program has inspired and equipped hundreds of young women to pursue careers in STEM. The 2026 edition will host 111 young women from 37 countries and territories, alongside 13 U.S. peers, in a transformative three-week U.S.-based exchange complemented by a seven-month mentorship program.

The heart of the program is a 23-day intensive STEM experience held in partnership with Virginia Tech University, where participants explore emerging technologies and career pathways in science and engineering through an engaging tech camp. Afterward, the TechGirls will travel to U.S. cities such as Austin, Cincinnati, Denver, Detroit, Kansas City, and Seattle for community immersion and job-shadowing experiences.

This unique structure ensures that participants not only gain technical skills but also leadership, teamwork, and cross-cultural collaboration abilities. Upon returning home, each TechGirl leads a community-based project with continued guidance from mentors—impacting thousands of peers. Since 2012, TechGirls alumnae have reached over 44,000 people through these community initiatives.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Be citizens and residents of one of the participating 2026 countries/territories:
    • 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
  • Be 15–17 years old as of July 11, 2026 (born between July 12, 2008, and July 11, 2011).
  • Demonstrate strong academic performance and interest in STEM fields.
  • Intend to pursue higher education or careers in STEM, particularly technology.
  • Possess advanced intermediate English proficiency.
  • Exhibit maturity, adaptability, and cultural openness.
  • Commit to completing a community project upon returning home.
  • Have at least one semester of secondary school remaining after returning.

Preference is given to candidates with limited or no prior experience in the U.S.. Applicants who have participated in other U.S. Department of State programs within the last three years or have close family ties to U.S. Embassy or Consulate staff are not eligible.

Program Benefits

TechGirls is a fully funded program—all major expenses are covered, including:

  • Roundtrip international and domestic airfare
  • Visa fees
  • Accommodation (shared dorms at Virginia Tech and hotels in Washington, D.C.)
  • Meals throughout the program
  • Local transportation to all scheduled events
  • Educational and cultural activities
  • Comprehensive emergency health insurance

Program Schedule

  • July 11, 2026: Arrival and orientation in Washington, D.C.
  • July 13–25, 2026: Tech camp at Virginia Tech University, Blacksburg, Virginia
  • July 25–29, 2026: Community immersion and job shadowing in select U.S. cities
  • July 29–August 1, 2026: Cultural and professional visits in Washington, D.C.
  • August 2, 2026: Program conclusion and departures

Past TechGirls have visited notable institutions such as NASA, Capitol Hill, and the U.S. Department of State, and participated in professional networking and cultural activities.

Why Apply?

TechGirls offers more than an exchange—it’s a launchpad for young women who aspire to become innovators, changemakers, and global STEM leaders. The experience combines high-level technical training, cultural exchange, and lifelong mentorship to help participants realize their full potential.

For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE

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