English Access Microscholarship Program (Access)

The English Access Microscholarship Program (Access) provides a foundation of English-language skills to talented 13- to 20-year-olds from disadvantaged sectors around the world through after-school classes and intensive summer sessions in their home communities. As part of their course work, Access students gain an appreciation for American culture and democratic values, increase their ability to participate in their countries’ socioeconomic development and better prepare themselves to compete for future U.S. exchange and study programs. The program also provides U.S.-based professional development and English-language workshops for selected teachers and students. Since the U.S. Department of State launched the program in 2004, approximately 200,000 students in more than 90 countries have participated in the Access Program.