Call for Applications: Join the World Learning’s STEAM Innovations engaging 8-week virtual exchange program

Ednah Carrick January 14, 2026

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Closing Date: 15 February 2026

Call for Applications: Join the World Learning’s STEAM Innovations engaging 8-week virtual exchange program

Program Description

World Learning’s STEAM Innovations effectively prepares 700 college/university-aged youth from Algeria, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and the United States for successful exploration of future STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) specialties and careers.

STEAM Innovations includes an engaging 8-week virtual exchange program focused on the following topics: STEAM discovery, career planning, community engagement, language learning and practice, and an introduction to entrepreneurship. The program will foster global understanding and equip participants with critical skills, a global perspective, and the ability to contribute meaningfully to their communities.

As an alum, you’ll join a global network and unlock opportunities to continue growing your skills, connections, and impact:

Recognition & Credentials: Certificate of Completion and weekly digital badges.
Professional Growth: Access to a digital portfolio template, YouTube resource library, and ongoing professional development workshops.
Exclusive Opportunities: Peer mentor roles, guest speaking, and eligibility for alumni awards such as Innovator or Community Builder.
Community & Connection: Alumni reunions, spotlights on social media, a quarterly newsletter, and membership in both the Virtual Programs Alumni Network and the U.S. Department of State’s International Alumni Network.

The program is implemented by World Learning and is supported by the J. Christopher Stevens Virtual Exchange Initiative (JCSVEI). JCSVEI is a U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs program administered by the Aspen Institute.

Program Dates & Fee

Program dates: March 16- April 26, 2026
Orientation: Starts on March 9, 2026
Time commitment: 2-4 hours/week
Program fee: Fully funded (Free!)

Application

The application is open! Apply now.

Priority deadline: January 19, 2026
Final admissions deadline: February 15, 2026

Watch the information session video to learn more.

Alumni Benefits

The journey doesn’t end when the program does. As a STEAM Innovations alum, you’ll join a global community of changemakers and gain access to exclusive opportunities designed to support your growth, showcase your achievements, and keep you connected.

Recognition & Credentials: Certificate of Completion and weekly digital badges.
Professional Growth: Access to a digital portfolio template, YouTube resource library, and ongoing professional development workshops.
Exclusive Opportunities: Peer mentor roles, guest speaking, internships, and eligibility for alumni awards such as Innovator or Community Builder.
Community & Connection: Alumni reunions, spotlights on social media, a quarterly newsletter, and membership in both the Virtual Programs Alumni Network and the U.S. Department of State’s International Alumni Network.

Program Goals

Discover and explore a variety of STEAM disciplines and gain hands-on experience.
Identify career strengths and set ambitious goals.
Develop community engagement and leadership skills to positively impact the community.
Sharpen problem-solving and creative thinking skills while transforming innovative ideas into practical solutions.
Collaborate in teams to address a global challenge.

Expected Outcomes

700 college/university-aged students in the United States, Algeria, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq complete the virtual exchange program and benefit hands-on learning, global collaboration and exchange, and a comprehensive curriculum.

About World Learning

World Learning believes that the best hope for peace, justice, and sustainability lies in bringing people together. Through cultural immersion, experiential learning, and information sharing, World Learning programs equip others to collaboratively address the most pressing issues of our time. World Learning programs help participants understand other cultures, master new skills, and cultivate networks. World Learning teaching and training methodologies empower them to find locally relevant, sustainable, and implementable solutions. Its approaches emphasize flexibility and adaptability that help them tackle real-world problems. They, in turn, make extraordinary changes in their lives and communities. Please join World Learning and those they work with and serve around the world—in its pursuit to create a brighter and better future for all.