The AFS Global STEM Accelerators 2026, a transformative Virtual STEM Empowerment Hub, hosted by AFS Intercultural Programs, invites aspiring female innovators to a 12-week online scholarship program, co-developed with the University of Pennsylvania Center for Social Impact Strategy (Penn CSIS). Launched in 2021 with 5,000+ scholars from 100+ countries, this initiative tackles gender barriers in STEM, where women hold only 28% of roles despite comprising 50%+ of the college-educated workforce. Conducted via Zoom and AFS’s digital platform, it equips young women with cutting-edge STEM skills, global competence, and social impact strategies, generating 80,000+ social media impressions.

The curriculum emphasizes three core pillars: STEM Innovation, mastering data literacy and design thinking; Sustainability, addressing climate change and energy transitions solar initiatives; and Intercultural Leadership, fostering cross-cultural collaboration. Past scholars, like 2024’s Cohort 2, developed 50+ prototypes, with 85% reporting enhanced problem-solving skills. Facilitated by AFS mentors and Penn CSIS experts, the program requires 3–4 hours weekly, blending live Zoom dialogues with self-paced modules like interactive quizzes and sustainability games, a trending approach in virtual education. Flexible scheduling accommodates global time zones, ensuring accessibility.

Participants access pre-program orientations, refining analytical skills and project design under AFS’s Global Competence Framework. Virtual immersions, such as UN SDG workshops and climate hackathons, connect scholars to global challenges, with 90% of participants citing deepened sustainability awareness. Networking events, including Global STEM Alumni Q&As and Penn CSIS webinars, generate 40,000+ impressions. Capstone projects at Penn CSIS’s virtual stage address issues like renewable energy, aligning with UN’s 2030 Agenda and 1.5°C climate goals.

Since 2021, the AFS Global STEM Accelerators have empowered change-makers like 2023’s from Nigeria, whose solar-powered irrigation prototype impacted local farming. Conducted in English with a 3–4-hour weekly commitment, it fosters inclusivity for diverse scholars. The AFS Framework, rooted in intercultural learning, social justice, and sustainability, is endorsed by UNESCO and UN forums. The cohort aims to engage 1,000+ scholars, advancing gender equity, STEM innovation, and global citizenship. Participants explore AFS’s virtual ecosystem, from climate simulation tools to alumni networks, immersing in a global STEM community.

Join aspiring female innovators to ignite STEM breakthroughs, shape sustainable futures, and drive transformative impact at AFS Global STEM Accelerators 2026!

AFS Global STEM Accelerators:

Host Body:

•AFS.

Program Mode:

•Virtual.

Program Duration:

•12-weeks program.

Benefits of the AFS Global STEM Accelerators:

•Intercultural understanding will be developed.
•Problem-solving skills will be developed.
•Analytical skills will be developed.
•The cross-cultural exchange will be promoted.
•Certificate on Global Competence for Social Impact.

Eligibility Criteria of the AFS Global STEM Accelerators:

1. Young women from around the world can apply.

2. It should be between 15 to 17.5 years old.

3. Must be fluent in English communication.

4. Must be curious and willing to collaborate with global peers and explore new cultures.

5. Must be interested in STEM, sustainability, and global competencies.

6. Must be computer literate.

7. Must have an integrated microphone for participation in sessions.

8. You must have a stable internet connection.

9. Underrepresented young women are encouraged to apply.

10. Women with high financial needs should apply.

11. Applicants must pay a USD 19 registration fee.

Documents Required for the AFS Global STEM Accelerators:

1. Recommendation letter (if available).

2. Certificate of student status/Certificate of Academic degree.

3. Academic transcript (if required).

4. Proof of Language proficiency (English)/ Medium of Instruction (English).

5. CV (if required).

6. Additional Documents for Special Circumstances.

7. Copy of Valid Passport (Photo and Information Page).

8. Passport Size Photocopy (Professional photo with White Background and size less than 2 MB).

9. Parental consent form.

Program Deadline:

• Registration deadline for 2025 has passed.

• Registration for 2026 is now open with a tentative deadline in March 2026!

Note:
We initiate the application process for current year as well as in advance for the next academic year to maximize your chances of success.