The Community Engagement Exchange Program 2026 (CEE) offers an exceptional opportunity for emerging civil society leaders from across the globe to participate in a fully funded, one-year professional and leadership development experience in the United States. Sponsored by the U.S. Government and implemented by IREX, the program brings together passionate young changemakers to build more cohesive and resilient communities.
This prestigious exchange program focuses on civic engagement, inclusive leadership, and cross-cultural collaboration, empowering participants with the tools, networks, and practical experience needed to lead transformational initiatives in their home countries. Through immersive placements, mentorship, training, and global networking opportunities, the CEE Program equips participants to make meaningful, lasting changes.
The Community Engagement Exchange Program 2026 is an invaluable experience for future leaders committed to creating a just, inclusive, and sustainable world. Don’t miss out on this unique chance to grow your leadership potential while building bridges between cultures. You can also apply for the Miami University Presidential Fellowship Program in the USA 2025 (Fully Funded)
Community Engagement Exchange Program 2026 Details:
- Host Country: United States of America
- Program Duration: One Year
- Organized By: IREX
- Funded By: U.S. Department of State
- Eligibility: International civil society leaders
Benefits of the Community Engagement Exchange Program 2026:
- Full support for J-1 visa application process
- Round-trip airfare from the home country to the U.S.
- Monthly stipend to cover housing, meals, and living expenses
- Health insurance throughout the program
- Hands-on placement at a U.S.-based host organization
- Online and in-person leadership training
- Global networking opportunities with civil society professionals
- Access to resources, mentorship, and ongoing support
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Eligible Countries for the CEE Program 2026:
- Africa
Botswana, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Angola, Guinea.
- East Asia & Pacific
Brunei, Burma (Myanmar), Cambodia, Fiji, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Micronesia, Mongolia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Vietnam, Republic of the Marshall Islands.
- Europe & Eurasia
Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Estonia, Georgia, Hungary, Kosovo, Latvia, Lithuania, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Turkey, Ukraine.
- Middle East & North Africa
Algeria, Egypt, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Syria, Tunisia, West Bank and Gaza.
- South & Central Asia
Bangladesh, Bhutan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan.
- Western Hemisphere
Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru, Trinidad and Tobago, and Uruguay.
Eligibility Criteria for the Community Engagement Exchange Program 2026:
- Must be aged between 21 and 28 at the time of application.
- Be a citizen and resident of one of the eligible countries.
- Have at least two years of professional or volunteer experience in civil society or community development.
- Must be living and working in their home country.
- Demonstrate strong leadership potential and a commitment to civic engagement.
- Must be able to communicate proficiently in English (no TOEFL/IELTS required but may be beneficial).
Required Documents:
- Completed online application form
- CV/Resume outlining relevant experience
- Personal statement and short essays about leadership and community work
- Valid passport copy (if available)
- Optional: letters of recommendation and supporting documents
Deadline:
The application deadline for the Community Engagement Exchange Program 2026 is May 22, 2025.
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How to Apply for the Community Engagement Exchange Program 2026?
To apply for the CEE Program 2026, follow these steps:
- Visit the Official Website: Access the application portal via the IREX official website.
- Create an Account: Register using your email address and set up a secure password.
- Complete the Online Application: Fill in all sections including personal info, academic background, leadership experience, and essays.
- Upload Required Documents: Attach your CV, passport copy, and any other relevant materials.
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