November 7, 2024

Human Rights and Legal Research Centre

Strategic Communications for Development

Career Opportunity: Apply Now for 2023 TechGirls leadership program in USA

4 min read

Deadline: Friday, December 16 at 12:00 PM EST

If you are interested in being a TechGirl, our Summer 2023 application period is Monday, October 17 at 8:00 AM EDT to Friday, December 16 at 12:00 PM EST.

The world needs young women interested in creating solutions for a better world.

Selection Process

TechGirls participants are selected based on the eligibility requirements below. Independent selection committees composed of industry leaders and regional experts review applications. United States Embassy personnel in your country of permanent residence interview semifinalists.

If you are a U.S. applicant please see the U.S.A. TechGirls page.

2023 Eligibility Requirements

Students eligible to apply are those who:

  • Are citizens of one of the eligible countries/territories and living in that country/territory at time of exchange:
      • Sub-Saharan Africa (AF) – Cameroon, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, and South Africa
      • East Asia and Pacific (EAP) – Cambodia, Fiji, Indonesia, Mongolia, Taiwan, and Vietnam
      • Middle East and North Africa (NEA) – Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, Palestinian Territories, and Tunisia
      • South and Central Asia (SCA) – Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan
      • Western Hemisphere (WHA) – Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Costa Rica, Honduras, and Suriname
      • Europe and Eurasia (EUR) – Albania, Cyprus, Greece, Kosovo, Montenegro, and Turkey
      • United States of America
  • Are between the ages of 15 and 17 at the start of the exchange July 8th, 2023 (Born on or between July 9, 2005 and July 8, 2008);
  • Have demonstrated advanced skills and a serious interest in science, technology, engineering, and/or math in their academic studies;
  • Intend to pursue higher education and/or careers in STEM, especially technology;
  • Have strong English language skills (advanced intermediate English skills);
  • Exhibit maturity, flexibility, and open-mindedness;
  • Will attend at least one additional semester of secondary school upon their return to their home country;
  • Are committed to completing a community-based project upon their return home; and
  • Meet U.S. J-1 visa eligibility requirements (for instance, U.S. citizens are not eligible for J-1 visa).
  • Eligible candidates must be citizens and current residents of participating countries. Third country nationals permanently living in an eligible country should contact us to determine eligibility prior to applying.
  • Preference will be given to those who have limited or no prior experience in the United States. You are not eligible if you have travelled to the United States in the last three years as part of any other ECA exchange program.

Please note that family members of U.S. Embassy or Consulate staff. U.S. Department of State employees, family members of the administering organization or partner organizations are not eligible to apply.

TechGirls encourages people with diverse backgrounds and skills to apply, including individuals with disabilities.

Selection Timeline

The TechGirls application for 2023 will open on Monday, October 17 at 8:00 AM EDT. The application will then close on Friday, December 16 at 12:00 PM EST. Applicants will be notified of their status in March.

COVID-19 Contingencies

Legacy International is working closely with the U.S. Department of State, local and global health professionals to plan a program that adheres to the best public health practices. As the global health situation stabilizes, we hope to conduct the program in person in summer 2023.

Click HERE to Apply for the TechGirls Program

Award Details

Covered Costs

The TechGirls program covers the following costs:

  • Visa Fee
  • Roundtrip international airfare from participant home country to the United States
  • Housing during program
    • Double occupancy dormitory accommodations
  • Meals during program
    • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Local transportation to group program events
  • Cultural events organized by Legacy International
  • Emergency health insurance

A safe environment:

At TechGirls, we encourage youth leadership and responsibility and create an environment of trust. We clearly explain the schedule and expect TechGirls to be on time and ready for each activity.  The schedule created helps everyone get most out of the three week intensive learning experience.

Supervision: TechGirls are supervised 24 hours a day. An environment is created to address problems and concerns swiftly. Staff assist youths with cultural adjustments, mentor and counsel as needed. Staff are First Aid and CPR certified to speedily address any health care needs.

Respect for all Religions: The TechGirls staff make sure that the students wishing to practice specific religious observances are given the space and opportunity to do so. The daily schedule is structured to allow for the five daily prayers for Muslims. On Fridays, we allow  time for a longer prayer time at mid-day or for attendance at a congregational Jummah prayer. For those who attend regular Sunday services, we make arrangements for you. Regarding dietary rules, we make sure to carefully show each participant what is halal at buffets and try to arrange meals at halal restaurants when possible.

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