Change through Exchange

Press Releases

2024

  • Islamabad, January 15, 2024 - Funded by the U.S. Mission to Pakistan and in collaboration with the Pakistan-U.S. Alumni Network (PUAN), the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) organized the 17th Annual Fulbright Alumni Conference from January 12-14 on the theme of climate change. Around 250 alumni of the Fulbright Program, most of whom have completed Master's or PhD degrees in the United States, gathered in Islamabad to discuss the challenges of climate change and report on actions they and their organizations are taking to reduce its impact on communities across Pakistan.

    "The United States invests in exchanges like the Fulbright Program because we know that no country can tackle seemingly intractable challenges - like climate change - alone. Exchange programs, and the Pakistan-U.S. Alumni Network, deepen people-to-people ties and provide opportunities for all of us to connect, to problem solve, and to make a positive difference together. PUAN members like you are making an impact here in Pakistan and around the world," said U.S. Ambassador Donald Blome.

    The keynote address was given by Senior Humphrey Fellow Dr. Amjad Saqib, Founder of the Akhuwat Foundation and winner of the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2021.

    Fulbright alumni highlighted their efforts to develop smart solutions to the climate crisis and learned from one another in a highly collaborative setting. From the role of education in addressing climate change to the importance of green business and urban planning in making cities more resilient, the alumni shared ideas and research that can help the government and private sector manage the crisis more effectively. The conference included seven panel discussions focusing on ecology, agriculture, climate action, and technology and concluded with a tour of Rawal Dam.

    USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar welcomed the honored guests and participants, noting, "Nowhere in the world is the Fulbright Program having a greater impact than in Pakistan. The Fulbright Pakistan alumni community represents a diverse and dynamic pool of professionals contributing to the country's socio-economic development, including low-income educational opportunities, disability inclusion, access to information, public libraries, district/provincial/federal administration, energy, transportation, banking and finance, and health. Everywhere you go in Pakistan, whether in terms of geography or economic sector, you will find Fulbright alumni leading and contributing to progressive change."

    The Fulbright Program in Pakistan is funded by the United States government. Since 2005, Pakistan has had the world's largest Fulbright foreign student program. More than half of these more than 3,000 alumni are women, and they represent every province and region of Pakistan.

    USEFP is a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of the United States and Pakistan. Since its inception, more than 8,800 Pakistanis and 945 Americans have participated in USEFP-managed exchange programs. Its mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of Pakistan through exchange programs.

2023

  • Islamabad, December 19, 2023 - The U.S. government has awarded 54 Pakistani undergraduate students scholarships to study for one semester under the Global Undergraduate Exchange (Global UGRAD) Program. Administered by the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP), the exchange program provides participants a unique opportunity to enrich their education by spending one semester of nondegree study at a U.S. university or college. During the program, students will also volunteer for community engagement projects in American host communities to strengthen their leadership skills.

    USEFP organized a pre-departure orientation in Islamabad to equip the students with essential information about American culture, campus life, visa requirements, and travel guidelines.

    The spring 2024 cohort represents all four provinces, Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and the Islamabad Capital Territory, with women making up 61 percent of the group. Since its inception in 2010, the Global UGRAD Program has supported approximately 2,500 participants who now serve as emerging leaders in their communities across Pakistan. These alumni have been honored with national and international awards for their impactful initiatives in fields including climate change, health, sports, and education.

    Minister Counselor for Public Affairs Bettina Malone shared well wishes with the students as they prepared to embark on the semester exchange. "Your Global UGRAD experience will be life-changing. Be open, be curious, say yes to opportunities - to join clubs, events, and happenings. Make the most of your time in the United States."

    USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar congratulated the students on being selected for this great opportunity, noting that thousands of students from all over Pakistan apply for this merit-based program. "Global UGRAD participants are selected for their potential not just to excel in higher education but to bring change and development to their communities. The Program gives students a chance to engage in community service activities and builds a spirit of volunteerism, as well as the opportunity to study at excellent colleges and universities in the United States. This semester exchange helps build new friendships and mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the United States."

    USEFP is a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of the United States and Pakistan. Since its inception, more than 8,600 Pakistanis and around 950 Americans have participated in USEFP-administered exchange programs. Its mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the people of the United States through educational and cultural exchange programs. For more information, visit www.usefp.org

  • Islamabad, December 27, 2023 - The U.S. Mission to Pakistan, in partnership with the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP), is now accepting applications for the prestigious 2025 Fulbright Student Program. The Fulbright Program in Pakistan is funded by the United States Government and is the world's largest in terms of financial contribution. Applications are welcome from all disciplines, including energy, water, agriculture, health, education, environmental science, and climate change. While clinical medicine is not included in the Fulbright Program, non-clinical public health applications are encouraged. Interested applicants can apply at www.usefp.org before the deadline on February 28, 2024.

    The premier academic exchange program covers graduate studies, tuition, maintenance, insurance, and air travel. All applicants are required to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and must have a minimum score of 145 in both the Verbal and Quantitative sections of the exam. Shortlisted candidates will be required to take the Duolingo English Test.

    On the impact of the Fulbright Program in Pakistan, U.S. Ambassador Donald Blome remarked: "Pakistani Fulbrighters have solved social problems, written new laws, advanced policies to ensure equal access and voices to all, and so much more. They do this all for one purpose: to create a better, safer, and more prosperous Pakistan. In this goal, the United States and Pakistan are united."

    Under the Fulbright Program, nearly 3,000 Pakistani students have received fully funded scholarships to study for graduate study since 2005. These awardees have completed their studies and research and are now making significant contributions to the public and private sectors with their knowledge and expertise.

    In a message to potential applicants, USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar encourages talented students and working professionals to consider applying. "We especially want to encourage applicants from public universities and under-served areas. Fulbright is a merit-based program, but in defining merit, the program considers the obstacles and challenges applicants have faced as well as their achievements. One of the goals of the program is to build human capacity in Pakistan, so successful applicants will plan to return to Pakistan on completion of their degrees and use their new skills and knowledge for the benefit of the country."

    USEFP is a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of the United States and Pakistan. Since its inception, more than 8,600 Pakistanis and 941 Americans have participated in USEFP-managed exchange programs. Its mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of Pakistan through exchange programs.

  • Islamabad, September 27, 2023 - EducationUSA's South Asia Tour brought U.S. higher education institutions (HEIs) to Pakistan for the second time this year this September, with five of the 14 participating universities visiting Pakistan for the first time. Representatives from these U.S. HEIs shared information about each university's academic programs, scholarships and financial aid, application procedures, and campus life with thousands of Pakistani students at large university fairs in Karachi, Islamabad, and Lahore. The fairs saw a combined footfall of 4050 students and parents, in alignment with the upward trend in interest recorded in the Institute of International Education's 2022 Open Doors report, which documents Pakistan among countries with the highest rise in number of students headed to the United States.

    Along with the university fairs, EducationUSA Pakistan also incorporated other activities to benefit local and U.S. educators. Networking high teas in all three cities facilitated interaction between visiting U.S. HEI representatives and Pakistan high school and university counselors and representatives, enabling participants to identify avenues for future collaborations. Structured school and university visits showcased the talent and drive of Pakistan students, giving the visiting U.S. representatives a first-hand look into the untapped potential in the country.

    "The face-to-face interaction and information sharing that happens during EducationUSA's South Asia Fair is so important - it always leads to meaningful, productive connections that open doors for so many talented Pakistani students," said USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar. "Once again, we're thrilled to host representatives from across the United States so they can see for themselves all that this country has to offer."

    EducationUSA is the official U.S. government source of information on U.S. higher education. It offers accurate, comprehensive, and current information on accredited postsecondary institutions in the United States, and free guidance and assistance to students interested in applying to U.S. colleges and universities. In Pakistan, EducationUSA is hosted at USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the Governments of Pakistan and the United States. USEFP also administers the prestigious Fulbright Student Program and several other scholarships and fellowships for Pakistani students interested in studying in the United States. For more information, visit educationusa.pk and usefp.org.

    Held at the Movenpick Hotel in Karachi, the Avari Hotel in Lahore, and the Serena Hotel in Islamabad, the PDO agenda this year included breakout sessions led by alumni and EducationUSA advisers on topics aimed at easing the transition to a new environment, interactive games, raffle draws, and meaningful discussions about American campus life and culture.

    For more information, visit educationusa.pk and usefp.org.

  • Islamabad, August 5, 2023 - Over 160 U.S.-bound students from across the country participated in EducationUSA's Pre-Departure Orientation (PDO) in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad this week. Geared towards those who will commence their bachelor's, master's, and PhD degree programs in the United States in Fall 2023, this annual event was attended by students, their parents, U.S. Embassy and Consulate Staff, and alumni from U.S. universities.

    According to the Institute of International Education's 2022 Open Doors report, Pakistan saw a substantial increase in the number of students headed to the USA last year and the upward trend is expected to continue. More than 8,000 Pakistanis currently study at U.S. institutions and the myriad of educational opportunities, unique academic programs, and unmatched diversity make the United States a leading destination for students. American universities also greatly benefit from the presence of Pakistani students, as they - and other international students - foster a diverse and culturally enriching learning and campus environment.

    "Studying in the United States opens up a world of professional, academic, and personal opportunities for Pakistani students," said Acting Deputy Chief of Mission William Ostick. The U.S. government is proud to support EducationUSA's free and comprehensive advising services, which make it possible for smart and motivated Pakistani students to have positive, life-changing experiences in the United States and become future leaders of their country."

    The annual PDO is the final step in EducationUSA's five-step advising process which guides thousands of Pakistani students each year through school search, admissions, and enrollment at U.S. colleges and universities. It is also a celebratory moment to recognize the hard work of students and celebrate their successes before they depart.

    Held at the Movenpick Hotel in Karachi, the Avari Hotel in Lahore, and the Serena Hotel in Islamabad, the PDO agenda this year included breakout sessions led by alumni and EducationUSA advisers on topics aimed at easing the transition to a new environment, interactive games, raffle draws, and meaningful discussions about American campus life and culture.

    "A U.S. education has the power to shape Pakistani students into truly global citizens who can address the big problems of an ever-changing world. We are deeply committed to ensuring that high achieving students are not only accepted to top schools in the United States but are also well prepared when they physically get there," said USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar. "Our EducationUSA advisers, who are U.S. graduates themselves, work hard to make sure students are equipped for the life-changing experience ahead of them. We are pleased to be able to offer EducationUSA's annual Pre-Departure Orientation to students and their parents about to embark on a higher education journey in the United States and give them some of the tools that will help make it successful and fun."

    EducationUSA is the official U.S. government source of information on U.S. higher education. It offers accurate, comprehensive, and current information on accredited postsecondary institutions in the United States, and free guidance and assistance to students interested in applying to U.S. colleges and universities. In Pakistan, EducationUSA is hosted at USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the Governments of Pakistan and the United States. USEFP also administers the prestigious Fulbright Student Program and several other scholarships and fellowships for Pakistani students interested in studying in the United States.

    For more information, visit educationusa.pk and usefp.org.

  • Islamabad, August 4, 2022 - Fifty-four undergraduate students from across Pakistan received scholarships from the U.S. Government to study in the United States for one semester under the Global Undergraduate Semester Exchange (UGRAD) Program. The Global UGRAD Program provides grantees the opportunity to enrich their education and pursue non-degree academic study at U.S. college campuses. The students will attend undergraduate classes at 51 U.S. colleges and universities, participate in workshops to strengthen leadership skills, and engage in community service projects.

    The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) hosted the students for a two-day pre-departure orientation in Islamabad to share information about campus life, American culture, and visa and travel requirements.

    "Undergraduate exchanges between the United States and Pakistan create important opportunities for the students who travel and the people they interact with and are an important part of strengthening the relationship between our two countries," said Acting Deputy Chief of Mission William Ostick. "The U.S. Government is proud to fund these life-changing opportunities, and we look forward to all they will accomplish as future leaders in Pakistan."

    Hailing from all four provinces, Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and the Islamabad Capital Territory, the cohort represents a wide range of fields of study, including business administration, social sciences, and STEM. Since the Global UGRAD Program launched in 2010, approximately 2,440 Pakistani students, more than half of whom are women, have received this prestigious one-semester scholarship to study in the United States.

    USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar encouraged the students to take full advantage of the academic, extracurricular, and community service activities available in the United States. "This year, again, we received a record number of applications from all over Pakistan. Participants are selected on merit, but in determining merit, we try to take into account obstacles students have had to overcome on their road to success. We look for students with the potential not just to excel in higher education but to bring change and development to their communities. We are confident that their American classmates will learn a lot from this group of talented students and that their classmates in Pakistan will learn a lot about America through them when they share their experiences on their return. The UGRAD Program is a wonderful opportunity to build new friendships and mutual understanding between the people of both countries."

    USEFP is a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of the United States and Pakistan. Since its inception, more than 9,621 Pakistanis and over 941 Americans have participated in USEFP-managed exchange programs. Its mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the people of the United States through educational and cultural exchange programs. For more information, visit www.usefp.org.

    The U.S. Government invests more than $40 million annually on exchange programs for Pakistani citizens to visit and study in the United States. Over 1,000 Pakistanis participate each year in high school, undergraduate, graduate, and professional U.S.-sponsored exchanges. Since the alumni network began in 2008, Americans have provided more than 18,000 college scholarships for Pakistani students.

  • Islamabad, July 17, 2023 - The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) is pleased to announce that 170 accomplished Pakistanis have been awarded the prestigious Fulbright Scholarship to study and conduct advanced research at leading U.S. universities. The flagship academic exchange program of the U.S. Government, the Fulbright Program, enables students from around the world to attend universities across the United States.

    The 2023 cohort gathered in Islamabad for a two-day pre-departure orientation to prepare for their educational journey and learn about the American culture, life on campus, and opportunities for exchange students in the United States.

    The U.S. Acting Deputy Chief of Mission, William Ostick congratulated the students on securing the scholarship and advised them to connect with fellow students and learn from each other's experiences.

    "While in the United States, you will be cultural ambassadors, strengthening ties between the people of Pakistan and the people of the United States. You will connect with Americans eager to learn more about Pakistan. And when you return, you can help explain America - its people, its values, and its character - to your own communities."

    This year's 170 participants belong to 44 public and private universities. Among these are 129 Master's and 41 PhD students and 7 Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant (FLTA) fellows. Women represent 61 percent of this year's departing cohort. The recipients will begin their educational journey this fall at 81 U.S. universities in various disciplines, including engineering, energy management, and social sciences.

    "This year's cohort of Fulbrighters continues to represent the rich diversity of Pakistan with grantees drawn from every province and region of the country. The prestigious scholarship is merit-based, but the merit is not just grades and examination results. Fulbrighters are selected for their potential to contribute to the social and economic development of Pakistan and for their ability to represent and build bridges between our two cultures. We hope that bright and gifted individuals studying and teaching at universities across Pakistan will be encouraged to consider applying if they have a vision for how their higher education in the United States can help them uplift and support their communities in the future."

    Operated in 160 countries, the Fulbright Program is administered by binational commissions and U.S. embassies. The Fulbright Commission in Pakistan, also known as USEFP, manages the largest program in the world in terms of U.S. government contribution. The Government of Pakistan, through the Higher Education Commission (HEC), also provides significant financial support. To strengthen the partnership in the education sector, the HEC funds 25 PhD grantees annually.

    Since 2005, 2,785 Pakistanis have received the Fulbright award to study, conduct research, exchange ideas, and contribute to finding solutions to shared international concerns.

    USEFP is a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of the United States and Pakistan. Since its inception, more than 9,621 Pakistanis and over 941 Americans have participated in USEFP-managed exchange programs. For more information, visit www.usefp.org

  • Islamabad, February 15, 2023 - After a three-year hiatus, EducationUSA resumed the South Asia Tour which brought 20 U.S. higher education institutions (HEIs) to the country, with six of those universities touring Pakistan for the first time. Representatives of the institutions shared relevant information about academic programs, campus life, financial aid options, and application procedures with thousands of Pakistani students during school and university visits and college fairs in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad.

    According to the Institute of International Education's 2022 Open Doors report, Pakistan saw a significant percentage increase - one of the highest in the region - in the number of students headed to the United States last year. With a wealth of educational opportunities, flexible and unique academic programs, and unmatched diversity in the student body, the United States is a premier destination for students from across the world.

    "Nearly 8,800 Pakistanis study at universities and colleges across the United States," said Minister Counselor for Public Affairs William Ostick. "The Open Doors report showed an increase of 17.4 percent over the previous year, and we want that number to continue to rise further. The U.S. government is very proud to support the South Asia Tour, which will help Pakistani students choose a U.S. university."

    Through valuable information sharing and in-person interaction between top U.S. HEIs and students, parents, counselors, and key school administrators, EducationUSA's tour underscored the countless higher education opportunities available in the United States for Pakistanis while also showcasing the talent and drive of Pakistani students for the representatives.

    "This fair has been a wonderful opportunity for reps from across the United States to visit Pakistan, tour our schools and universities, and see first-hand what value our talented students can add to their campuses," said USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar. "This face-to-face interaction and information sharing has opened up higher education possibilities in America to Pakistani students while also allowing reps to build lasting and productive connections with local school and university counselors."

    EducationUSA is the official U.S. government source of information on U.S. higher education. It offers accurate, comprehensive, and current information on accredited postsecondary institutions in the United States, and free guidance and assistance to students interested in applying to U.S. colleges and universities. In Pakistan, EducationUSA is hosted at USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the Governments of Pakistan and the United States. USEFP also administers the prestigious Fulbright Student Program and several other scholarships and fellowships for Pakistani students interested in studying in the United States.

    For more information, visit educationusa.pk and usefp.org.

  • Islamabad, January 12, 2023 - The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) invites Pakistanis to apply for the prestigious 2024 Fulbright Student Program. Funded by the United States Government, the Fulbright Program in Pakistan is the world's largest in terms of financial contribution. The highly competitive and merit-based scholarship covers graduate study, including tuition, maintenance, insurance, and air travel. The application is available at www.usefp.org, with a deadline of April 12, 2023.

    USEFP welcomes applicants in all disciplines, including energy, water, agriculture, health, education, environmental science, and climate change. While clinical medicine is not included in the Fulbright Program, non-clinical public health applications are encouraged. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is required for all applicants. Under the new scoring system, a minimum score of 145 is required in the Verbal and Quantitative sections of the exam.

    "The Fulbright program is the United States' premier academic exchange program, connecting people and nations and fostering mutual understanding since 1946", noted the U.S. Embassy's Country Public Affairs Officer Will Ostick. "The U.S. Mission to Pakistan is proud to support one of the largest programs in the world and we look forward to meeting this year's candidates for this prestigious academic exchange."

    For the academic year 2023, USEFP received 1,157 applications and selected a record number of 217 Pakistanis for the Fulbright Program. We are proud to share that of these grantees, 60 percent are women. In the past two decades, 2,568 Pakistanis have been awarded these scholarships to study, conduct research, exchange ideas, and contribute to finding solutions to shared international concerns.

    In a message to potential applicants, USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar encourages talented students and working professionals to learn more about the program. "Graduate programs in the United States are the best in the world. Anyone who is academically ambitious and wants to work for the social and economic improvement of Pakistan should consider applying. Fulbright is a merit-based program, but merit encompasses hopes and plans for the future and not just past achievements. Therefore, people who have big dreams but, so far, few opportunities should not count themselves out."

    USEFP is a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of the United States and Pakistan. Since its inception, more than 9,000 Pakistanis and over 935 Americans have participated in USEFP-managed exchange programs. Its mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of Pakistan through exchange programs.

2022

  • Islamabad, December 20, 2022 - In collaboration with the U.S. Department of State and the Humphrey Alumni Association of Pakistan (HAAP), the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) organized the 4th Annual Humphrey Alumni Conference in Islamabad. Titled "Combating Climate Change: Finding a Broad-Based Remedy for the Future" the conference aims to find multidisciplinary solutions to the climate crisis and devise strategies to address catastrophic floods in Pakistan. Around 90 alumni from across Pakistan attended the conference and discussed global climate policies, adaptation plans, and risk reduction for developing countries, including Pakistan.

    Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Academic Programs for the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) Ethan Rosenzweig met the participants and appreciated their efforts to bring knowledge and skills back to Pakistan to fight the global challenge. Fellows discussed approaches to the climate crisis through the lens of education, community resilience, public health, sustainable agriculture and more.

    "It was so invigorating to see Humphrey alumni in action, sharing their experiences and knowledge with one another to find solutions to a shared global challenge. The United States will continue to be their partner in this work," said Deputy Assistant Secretary Rosenzweig.

    The Humphrey alumni examined key factors behind climate change and its impact on the economy, residents, and the environment through panel discussions. They emphasized building resilience to climate change, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and implementing strategies to protect against extreme weather conditions.
    USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar welcomed the participants and thanked them for continuing to build on their Humphrey Fellowship experiences and contacts in the United States to combat the challenges facing Pakistan due to climate change. "Humphrey alumni are spread throughout Pakistan and are contributing hugely to policy formation and implementation for resilience in response to climate change. This conference provides an opportunity to showcase this important work and to network and collaborate across a range of important issues," she noted.

    The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program, a Fulbright exchange, provides emerging leaders and policymakers with education and experience in U.S. society, culture, and the academic and professional sectors. Since its inception, 300 Pakistanis from diverse fields have gained valuable knowledge and experience in the United States. This event is part of a series of Alumni Global Policy Dialogues organized in anticipation of the 45th anniversary of the Humphrey Fellowship Program.

    USEFP is a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of the United States and Pakistan. Since its inception, more than 9,300 Pakistanis and over 935 Americans have participated in USEFP-managed exchange programs. For more information, visit www.usefp.org.

  • Islamabad, December 19, 2022 - Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Academic Programs for the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) Ethan Rosenzweig congratulated Pakistani students traveling to the United States for the Global Undergraduate Semester Exchange (Global UGRAD) Program. Funded by the U.S. Department of State, the program provides participants the opportunity to enrich their education and experience full-time academic study.

    Prior to their departure from Pakistan, the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) welcomed the students to a two-day pre-departure orientation in Islamabad to learn about campus life, American culture, and visa and travel requirements.

    "We are eager to welcome these outstanding student leaders on our university campuses, where they will share their culture and perspectives with their American peers, helping to connect the Pakistani and American people," said Deputy Assistant Secretary Rosenzweig.

    During their stay in the U.S., the students will attend undergraduate classes at 47 colleges and universities and participate in community projects to strengthen their leadership and academic skills. The students come from all regions of Pakistan and represent 30 public and private universities.
    Since the Global UGRAD Program launched in 2010, approximately 2,442 Pakistani students have previously received this prestigious one-semester scholarship to study in the United States.

    USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar encouraged the students to take full advantage of the academic, extracurricular, and community service activities available in the United States. "This year, we received a record number of applications from all over Pakistan. We've tried to prioritize students who have not had travel experience and who come from under-represented communities, in addition to all of them having excellent academic records. This group represents the rich diversity of Pakistan, and their American classmates will learn a lot from them. The opportunity to experience higher education in the United States is life-changing and lays the foundation for new friendships and mutual understanding between the people of both countries."

    USEFP is a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of the United States and Pakistan. Since its inception, more than 9,300 Pakistanis and over 935 Americans have participated in USEFP-managed exchange programs. Its mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the people of the United States through educational and cultural exchange programs. For more information, visit www.usefp.org.

  • Islamabad, November 14, 2022 - For the academic year 2023, a record number of 217 Pakistanis have been selected to receive the prestigious Fulbright Scholarship to pursue Master's and PhD degrees in the United States. The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) recently completed the selection process and is pleased to announce that this is the largest cohort ever representing Pakistan. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the U.S. - Pakistan relations, and Fulbright is one example of the U.S. Government's commitment to promoting mutual understanding between both countries through educational and cultural exchanges.

    The Fulbright Program is the flagship scholarship of the U.S. Department of State, offered in 160 countries. Since 2005, Pakistan's Fulbright Program has been the world's largest in terms of financial contribution from the U.S. Government. This year, USEFP received 1,157 applications. After a rigorous selection process, 217 grantees (152 Master's and 65 PhDs) from 44 public and private universities have been nominated for the awards. Of these candidates, 60 percent are women.

    "The United States Government is proud to sponsor the highly competitive and prestigious Fulbright exchange program, which brings together the very best scholars from many backgrounds and areas of study to advance their academic and leadership goals," noted the Embassy's Country Public Affairs Officer William Ostick. "We congratulate this year's scholars and look forward to watching you strengthen your communities and the ties between our two countries." The Fulbright is a merit-based, competitive scholarship that fully funds graduate degree study at leading U.S. universities, including tuition, maintenance, insurance, and air travel. The selected cohort will depart in the fall 2023 and study a wide variety of academic disciplines, including engineering, social sciences, public policy/administration, education, fine arts, communications, technology, law, and health. After completing their studies, the Fulbrighters return to Pakistan and play a leading role in the country's continuing development.

    Executive Director Rita Akhtar stated, "USEFP congratulates all of the successful candidates and encourages all of the talented candidates who applied but were not selected this year to reapply for 2024. We are proud that the 2023 cohort includes nominees from all of Pakistan's provinces and such a significant percentage of women. The Fulbright Program in Pakistan is producing leaders and innovators in all sectors of economy and society and represents a significant investment in Pakistan's future."

    In the past two decades, 2,568 Pakistanis have been awarded these scholarships to study, conduct research, exchange ideas, and contribute to finding solutions to shared international concerns. USEFP is a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of the United States and Pakistan. Since its inception, more than 9,300 Pakistanis and over 935 Americans have participated in USEFP-managed exchange programs. For more information, visit www.usefp.org.

  • Islamabad, July 29, 2022 - To promote educational and cultural exchange between the United States and Pakistan, 189 students have been awarded the prestigious Fulbright Scholarship to pursue advanced studies and research at leading U.S. universities. The awardees will start their higher education journey at 82 universities this fall in various disciplines, including environmental studies, energy management, and social sciences.

    Fulbright is the flagship scholarship program of the United States Government, operating in 160 countries. Pakistan has the largest Fulbright program in the world in terms of U.S. government contribution, with $18.44 million dollars this year to support 189 students. This is a testament to the U.S commitment to our cooperation in Pakistan, now celebrating our 75th anniversary. The Government of Pakistan, through the Higher Education Commission, also supports a significant number of PhD scholarships.

    This year's 189 students attended a two-day pre-departure orientation organized by the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) in Islamabad to prepare for the journey, their exchange programs, life on university campuses, and American culture. U.S. Ambassador Donald Blome congratulated the grantees on their achievement. "Pakistani Fulbrighters have solved social problems, written new laws, advanced policies to ensure equal access and voices to all, and so much more. They do this all for one purpose: to create a better, safer, and more prosperous Pakistan. In this goal, the United States and Pakistan are united," Ambassador Blome said. He further stressed that the United States invests in education because it strengthens the American relationship with Pakistan, builds stability in the region, and leads to shared economic prosperity.

    The 2022 Fulbright cohort is one of the largest ever for Pakistan, with students from 47 public and private universities representing all regions of Pakistan. This year, 125 Master's and 64 PhD (31 Fulbright PhD and 33 Fulbright-HEC PhD) students and 7 Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant (FLTA) fellows were selected for these awards. Half of the grantees are women.

    The scholarship covers travel, living stipends, health insurance, and tuition for the entire study period. Since the program began in Pakistan in 1951, 4,100 Pakistanis have received the Fulbright award to study, conduct research, exchange ideas, and contribute to finding solutions to shared international concerns. In just the past two decades, 2,568 Pakistanis have been awarded these scholarships. When they return, Fulbright students join a community of over 32,000 Pakistanis who have participated in a U.S. Government-sponsored exchange or English language program over the years.

    The United States Government also supports Pakistani higher education in other ways because investing in education strengthens our bilateral relationship. This includes thousands of merit and needs based scholarships for students to attend Pakistani universities; a variety of partnerships with 99 Pakistani universities to develop faculty and collaborate on research, such as in green energy and climate resiliency; and efforts to develop a new set of university English language courses with the Higher Education Commission.

    "The Fulbright Exchange Program represents a life-changing opportunity for its recipients, providing a top-tier academic experience and exceptional cultural and social enrichment," noted USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar. "It is also a great contribution to both countries more broadly. Americans benefit from the experience and insight of Pakistan's brightest young scholars, and Pakistanis benefit from the contribution these Fulbrighters make when they return with all their new knowledge and experience. More than 2,000 Fulbright alumni already returned and currently working in Pakistan are proof that Fulbright is a great investment in the future and a key component in building mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the people of the United States."

    USEFP is a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of the United States and Pakistan. Since its inception, more than 9,300 Pakistanis and over 935 Americans have participated in USEFP-managed exchange programs. For more information, visit www.usefp.org.

  • Islamabad, July 22, 2022 - Approximately 50 Pakistani undergraduate students received scholarships from the American Government to study in the United States for one semester under the Undergraduate Semester Exchange (UGRAD) Program for Pakistan. During their stay in the USA, the students will attend undergraduate classes at 42 colleges and universities, participate in workshops to develop leadership skills, and engage in community service projects.

    Before leaving Pakistan, the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) welcomed the students to a two-day pre-departure orientation in Islamabad to learn about campus life, American culture, and visa and travel requirements. The Acting Deputy Chief of Mission from the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad personally greeted the students in the orientation. "The United States has a long tradition of embracing international students," he noted, and "while it seems obvious that you are gaining a life-changing experience, it is actually a two-way street. We in the United States also gain so much from your examples of hard work and dedication to your studies, as well as your willingness to share Pakistani culture with us."

    The students come from all regions of Pakistan and represent 27 public and private universities. Since the UGRAD Program launched in 2010, approximately 2,391 Pakistani students have previously received this prestigious one-semester scholarships to study in the United States.

    USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar encouraged the students to take full advantage of the academic, extracurricular, and community service activities available in the United States. "Global UGRADs are selected on merit from thousands of applicants from every part of Pakistan. In many cases, they are the first person from their locality ever to travel to the United States. They spend a semester studying in colleges and universities in parts of the United States where there are very few other Pakistanis, so American students also learn a lot about Pakistan through this exchange. We hope you meet a lot of interesting people on your adventure and that you share your U.S. experiences widely when you come home to Pakistan."

    USEFP is the official U.S. - Pakistan binational Fulbright commission. It was established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States and is one of 49 such commissions throughout the world. Since its inception, more than 9,300 Pakistanis and over 935 Americans have participated in USEFP-managed exchange programs. Its mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the people of the United States through educational and cultural exchange programs. For more information, visit www.usefp.org.

  • Islamabad, February 19, 2022 - The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) is pleased to announce the 2023 Fulbright Student competition. The application form is available online at www.usefp.org, with a deadline of May 11, 2022.

    The competition is part of the prestigious Fulbright Program, which is the flagship scholarship of the U.S. Department of State, offered in 160 countries. The program fully funds graduate degree study at leading U.S. universities, including tuition, maintenance, insurance, and air travel. Upon completing their degrees, returning Fulbright participants contribute to Pakistan's development and growth by teaching at Pakistani universities or otherwise engaging in important civic and government service.

    Since 2005, Pakistan's Fulbright Program has been the world's largest in terms of financial contribution from the U.S. Government. In 2022, USEFP received 1,191 applications. After a rigorous selection process, 213 grantees (138 Master's and 75 PhDs) from 51 different universities were selected. Out of this number, the Government of Pakistan partners with the United States to annually fund 25 of the PhD students.

    In a message to potential applicants, USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar encourages anyone who is eligible, plans to work for the social or economic improvement of Pakistan, and dreams of studying in the United States to consider applying. "Fulbrighters," she notes, "come from all over Pakistan, about half are women, some are working professionals and others are fresh graduates, and a number are differently-abled," she noted.

    The scholarship is merit-based, with merit defined broadly and not simply restricted to grades and test scores.

    "Just as leadership in the United States cuts across the full range of American society, so too does the Fulbright program, which takes a broad view of what constitutes high achievement and leadership," as noted by the Embassy's Cultural Attache, Farah Chery-Medor. "The U.S. Mission is proud to support this rigorous, competitive program that builds solid connections between Americans and Pakistanis, and seeks applicants with diverse academic interests and extracurricular activities."

    While all disciplines except clinical medicine are eligible, USEFP especially welcomes applicants in the disciplines of energy, water, agriculture, health, education, environmental science, and social sciences. Please note that while clinical medicine is not included in the Fulbright Program, non-clinical public health applications are encouraged.

    USEFP is a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of the United States and Pakistan. Since its inception, more than 9,000 Pakistanis and over 935 Americans have participated in USEFP-managed exchange programs. Its mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of Pakistan through exchange programs.

  • Islamabad, February 16, 2022 - In celebration of 75 years of the U.S. - Pakistan relations, the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) held a groundbreaking ceremony for its new headquarters in Islamabad. As a symbol of binational cooperation, USEFP was allotted plot in Islamabad's H-8 education sector by the Government of Pakistan to build its first-ever headquarters. The U.S. Government is contributing to the cost of the facility. The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by the U.S. Mission, Ministry of Education representatives, Higher Education Commission of Pakistan officials, USEFP Board members, vice-chancellors, guests, and alumni. Located in the center of the capital, the office will be accessible to students, applicants, test-takers, and alumni.

    The Chargé d'affaires of the U.S. Embassy, Angela P. Aggeler, noted in today's ceremony that "we are all connected through the experiences we share, the challenges we face and the opportunities we have. The work of USEFP has brought and will continue to bring the U.S. and Pakistani people even closer together now and for decades to come."

    The pre-eminent architecture firm of Nayyar Ali Dad & Associates is overseeing the design and construction of the facility, which will include a library, an auditorium, and standardized testing labs for the use of Pakistanis aspiring to pursue higher education in the United States.

    USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar used the opportunity to thank all of the individuals and organizations whose support made the building possible. "USEFP has been promoting educational exchange between Pakistan and the United States for more than 70 years. Since 1950 we have sent more than 9000 Pakistanis to the U.S. and brought nearly a thousand Americans to Pakistan on a variety of academic programs, including the prestigious Fulbright Program. This event celebrates the fact that USEFP will finally not have to operate out of rented premises and continue its mission of promoting mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of Pakistan in a purpose-built facility."

    Currently, USEFP has offices in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi. Among educational and cultural exchange opportunities, USEFP offers world-class standardized examinations for students and professionals. The EducationUSA Pakistan is also hosted at USEFP and is the official U.S. government source of information on U.S. higher education. For more information on USEFP managed programs, visit www.usefp.org.

2021

  • Islamabad, November 20, 2021 - The U.S. Mission in Pakistan and EducationUSA marked International Education Week (IEW), November 15-19, 2021, with a series of virtual events and activities encouraging students, parents, and school counselors to consider U.S. colleges and universities as the premier higher education destination. With top-notch academic programs, unmatched international student experiences, and over 4,000 accredited institutions from which to choose, the United States offers a wealth of higher-education opportunities for students globally and across Pakistan.

    "Each year, the U.S. government sends approximately 800 Pakistanis to the United States to study, including fully funded fellowships for 100 masters and 50 PhD candidates through our prestigious Fulbright Program, and we would like to see even more students take advantage of the opportunities to study in our world-class colleges and universities," said the U.S. Embassy's Minister Counselor for Public Affairs Ray Castillo. "These experiences promote economic growth by preparing students to enter the global job market. And by building life-long connections, these exchanges also create a platform for future leaders to work together to solve the world's toughest challenges."

    International Education Week brought together senior university representatives, including vice-chancellors, faculty members, and students for a virtual panel discussion, co-hosted by the U.S. Embassy, on the benefits of international education and the value of U.S. exchange programs for Pakistani students. The program was opened by Minister Counselor Ray Castillo, and the panel included former Dean and Director of the Institute of Business Administration, Karachi, and former Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan, Ishrat Hussain, Executive Director of the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP), Rita Akhtar and U.S. exchange alumni, Humzah Yazdani, Maryam Noor, and Nimrah Shakeel.

    "American study abroad experiences provide students with an academically rigorous and culturally diverse environment in which to learn and thrive," said USEFP Executive Director, Rita Akhtar. "While earning a U.S. degree, students not only gain valuable insight into American culture and our way of life but also have a unique opportunity to share stories of Pakistan's rich heritage with students from around the world. IEW events and activities highlight these benefits, further strengthening our commitment to support U.S. higher education aspirations of students across Pakistan."

    This year's festivities also included a High Achievers' and Counselors' Recognition Ceremony to honor outstanding students and recognize hard-working counselors from local high schools in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi. The event highlighted the important role guidance counselors play, alongside parents, in shaping Pakistan's future leaders. Other virtual events involved activities aimed at building students' confidence by improving their communication skills and self-expression through filmmaking, recitals of prose and poetry, and gamifying webinars to encourage virtual participation.

    EducationUSA is the official U.S. government source of information on U.S. higher education. It offers accurate, comprehensive, and current information on accredited postsecondary institutions in the United States, and free guidance and assistance to students interested in applying to U.S. colleges and universities. In Pakistan, EducationUSA is hosted at USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the Governments of Pakistan and the United States. USEFP also administers the prestigious Fulbright Student Program and several other scholarships and fellowships for Pakistani students interested in studying in the United States.

    For more information, visit educationusa.pk and usefp.org.

  • Islamabad, October 27, 2021 - Nineteen Pakistani post-doctoral scholars received Fulbright Scholar grants to conduct groundbreaking research at leading U.S. universities. Funded by the United States Government, the Fulbright Scholar Program is a 12-month program consisting of lectures and post-doctoral research.

    At a pre-departure orientation for the 19 scholars hosted by the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP), the Deputy Cultural Attaché of the U.S. Embassy, Phillip Assis, said that "the Fulbright scholar program is not only highly competitive and an honor for those who receive it, but it also advances the academic and professional ties of American and Pakistani scholars and communities. The United States Government is proud to sponsor this program and celebrate the many years of academic cooperation between our two countries."

    The 2021 Fulbright Scholar group includes professors in the fields of psychology, entomology, agriculture, finance, South Asian history, computer science, and biotechnology. They have been accepted as researchers at Harvard University, Stanford University, Johns Hopkins University, and Purdue University, among other prestigious universities.

    USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar congratulated the scholars on their selection, noting that more than 425 potential scholars had applied. "We are proud and happy that you will have the opportunity to share your knowledge and experience with American colleagues as well as bring back new experiences, both academic and cultural, to share with your students," she said.

    The 2022 Fulbright Scholar Program was announced with a deadline of November 10, 2021. For details about the eligibility criteria and application, please visit www.usefp.org. The grant funds airfare, an incidental research allowance, a living stipend, and health insurance. Since the commencement of the program in 1950, over 400 scholars have embarked on the program. Their research has been published in leading journals. Moreover, 14 alumni currently serve as vice chancellors of leading public and private universities across Pakistan.

    USEFP is a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of the United States and Pakistan. Since its inception, more than 9,000 Pakistanis and over 935 Americans have participated in USEFP-managed exchange programs. Its mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the people of the United States through exchange programs. For more information, visit www.usefp.org.

  • Islamabad, August 12, 2021 - As part of the U.S.-Pakistan educational cooperation, 139 Pakistanis received prestigious Fulbright scholarships to pursue graduate studies and research at leading universities in the United States. Funded by the United States Government, the departing students attended a virtual pre-departure orientation organized by the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) to learn about the Fulbright Program, life on university campuses, and American culture. The 2021 Fulbright cohort hails from 52 universities across Pakistan, with women representing 71 percent of the group. This year, 93 Master's and 39 Ph.D. students and seven Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant (FLTA) fellows were selected for these awards. They will attend 78 U.S. universities and pursue a wide variety of academic disciplines, including engineering, energy management, and social sciences.

    "For over 70 years, Pakistan and the United States have been sending people to each other's shores, enriching our communities and creating lasting bonds between tens of thousands of Americans and Pakistanis," noted the U.S. Embassy's Acting Minister Counselor for Public Affairs, Julia Fendrick. "Through this experience, you will become envoys and bridge builders. You will connect and deepen the relationship between the United States and Pakistan."

    Fulbright is the flagship academic exchange program of the U.S. Department of State that covers travel, living stipends, health insurance, and tuition for the entire period of study. Since 2005, 2,401 Pakistanis have received the Fulbright award to study, conduct research, exchange ideas, and contribute to finding solutions to shared international concerns.

    Earlier this year, the Higher Education Commission and USEFP signed an extension to a Memorandum of Understanding to support 125 Pakistanis to pursue Ph.D. studies in the United States, 25 per year for five years. This extends an agreement that already funded 125 Fulbright-HEC Ph.D. scholarships between 2021 and 2025.

    USEFP is a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of the United States and Pakistan. Since its inception, more than 9,000 Pakistanis and over 935 Americans have participated in USEFP-managed exchange programs. Its mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the people of the United States through exchange programs. For more information, visit www.usefp.org.

  • Islamabad, August 2, 2021 - Approximately 142 Pakistani undergraduate students received scholarships to study in the United States for one semester under the Global Undergraduate Exchange (Global UGRAD) Program funded by the United States Government. Starting this month, the participants will attend undergraduate classes at 78 U.S. colleges and universities and participate in professional development workshops to enhance their academic standing and cultural immersion in the United States.

    "The Global UGrad scholarship provides the tools for its recipients to become leaders in their professions and communities," noted Ray Castillo, the Minister Counselor for Public Affairs at the United States Embassy, during a virtual pre-departure orientation hosted by the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) on July 29 to prepare the students for this life-changing exchange program. "We are proud to provide this opportunity for these high achieving students to pursue their academic and career goals," he added, noting that the scholarship "will develop the cross-cultural understanding and leadership skills that are essential for today's inter-connected world."

    The students in this latest Pakistani Global UGRAD cohort represent a wide range of fields of study, including humanities, engineering, and business administration. The scholarship recipients hail from all four provinces, Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and the Islamabad Capital Territory. Eighty-two percent of the students are women. The virtual orientation provided grantees the opportunity to learn about campus life, American culture, and visa and travel requirements while interacting with fellow students.

    Since the Global UGRAD Program launched in 2010, approximately 2,200 Pakistani students have received one-semester scholarships to study in the United States. USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States, is one of 49 Fulbright Commissions throughout the world. Since its inception, around 9,000 Pakistanis and more than 935 Americans have participated in USEFP-managed exchange programs. Its mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the people of the United States through educational and cultural exchange programs. For more information, visit www.usefp.org.

  • Islamabad - June 24, 2021: In a step toward expanding U.S.-Pakistan educational cooperation, the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to support 125 Pakistanis to pursue PhD studies in the United States, 25 per year for five years. The MoU extends an agreement that funded 125 Fulbright-HEC PhD scholarships between 2016 and 2020. Acting HEC Chairman Dr. Shaista Sohail and USEFP Executive Director Ms. Rita Akhtar signed the MoU on June 16, through which the Government of Pakistan will contribute USD 5 million per year to the Fulbright-HEC PhD Program.

    Fulbright is the flagship scholarship program of the U.S. Department of State, operating in 165 countries. Since 2005, Pakistan has had the world's largest Fulbright Program in terms of U.S. government financial contribution, with approximately 100 master's and 25 PhD scholarships funded annually. The HEC-USEFP MoU funds an additional 25 PhDs per year, bringing the total to 50.

    "This MoU provides funding for 125 exceptional Pakistanis to complete PhD programs at some of the best universities in the United States," explained USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar. "It represents a spectacular contribution to the social and economic development of Pakistan as well as to mutual understanding and friendship between the two countries. Our Fulbright grantees return to Pakistan to apply new skills and knowledge in every field and sector of Pakistan's economy."

    "The U.S. government is very proud of its long partnership with Pakistan in promoting higher education for its citizens, and the Fulbright program is a highlight of this partnership," said U.S. Embassy Chargé d'affaires Angela P. Aggeler. "In particular, it is very important to us that Fulbright students represent the rich diversity of Pakistan. For this reason, we strongly encourage women, people with disabilities, and students from rural and underrepresented areas to apply."

    According to U.S. Embassy Chargé d'affaires Les Viguerie, "The U.S.-Pakistan education partnership is among the best in the world, and the United States values the Pakistani students who enrich American campuses across our country."

    The Fulbright Program is a fully funded, merit-based program that provides the opportunity to conduct research and implement skills and ideas. The participants hail from different regions of Pakistan and study at leading universities in the United States.

    USEFP is a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of the United States and Pakistan. Since its inception, more than 9,000 Pakistanis and over 935 Americans have participated in USEFP-managed exchange programs. Its mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the people of the United States through exchange programs.

  • Islamabad - March 10, 2021: The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) has announced the opening of the 2022 Fulbright Student competition. The prestigious Fulbright Program is the flagship academic scholarship program of the U.S. Department of State and is offered in 160 countries. Since 2005, Pakistan's Fulbright Program is the world's largest in terms of financial contribution from the U.S. Government. The Government of Pakistan, through the Higher Education Commission (HEC), has also provided generous support. Every year approximately 100 Pakistanis begin master's programs, and another 50 begin PhD studies on Fulbright scholarships at leading U.S. universities.

    This year marks the 75th anniversary of the Fulbright program, which has been operating in Pakistan for 71 years. The Pakistan Fulbright Student Program fully funds graduate degree study, including tuition, maintenance, insurance, and air travel. On completing their degrees, returning Fulbright participants contribute to Pakistan's development and growth by teaching at Pakistani universities, or otherwise engaging in important civic and government service. The scholarship is merit-based, but merit is defined broadly and not restricted to grades and test scores. The application form is available online at www.usefp.org, and the application deadline is June 09, 2021. This year the Graduate Record Examination (GRE General) will be required of all applicants, and the cumulative grade point average (CGPA) requirement set for last year has been removed.

    USEFP especially welcomes applicants in the disciplines of energy, water, agriculture, public health, education, social sciences, journalism, mass communication, arts and culture management, urban and regional planning, environmental science, security and peace studies, and data science. Please note that clinical medicine is not included in the Fulbright program.

    "The U.S. government is very proud of its long partnership with Pakistan in promoting higher education for its citizens, and the Fulbright program is a highlight of this partnership," said U.S. Embassy Chargé d'affaires Angela P. Aggeler. "In particular, it is very important to us that Fulbright students represent the rich diversity of Pakistan. For this reason, we strongly encourage women, people with disabilities, and students from rural and underrepresented areas to apply."

    "I would like to encourage anyone who is eligible and interested in graduate education to consider applying to the prestigious Fulbright Program. Fulbrighters come from all regions of Pakistan. The 2021 cohort was drawn from 38 different universities. Among successful applicants, some are fresh graduates, others are working professionals, and in recent years more than half are women," said USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar.

    USEFP is a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of the United States and Pakistan. Since its inception, more than 9,000 Pakistanis and over 935 Americans have participated in USEFP-managed exchange programs. Its mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the people of the United States through exchange programs.

2020

  • Islamabad - February 19, 2020: Amid rising Pakistani interest in U.S. higher education, representatives from 13 U.S. universities met thousands of Pakistani students during visits to schools, universities, and college fairs in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi as part of EducationUSA's 16th South Asia Tour. Representatives of top universities from around the United States shared valuable information about their institutions' academic programs, campus life, financial aid options, and application procedures.

    As noted in the Institute of International Education's 2019 Open Doors report, Pakistan is among the world's fastest growing emerging market places of origin for students in the United States. The thousands of academic programs, world-class institutions, and unmatched flexibility of U.S. higher education make the United States the world's premier destination for university students.

    "Nearly 8,000 Pakistanis study at universities and colleges across the United States," said Minister Counselor for Public Affairs Lisa Heller. "That is an increase of 5.6 percent over the previous year, and we want that number to continue to rise further. The U.S. government is very proud to support the South Asia Tour, which will help Pakistani students choose a U.S. university."

    "Each year, the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) looks forward to hosting the South Asia Tour and introducing U.S. universities to Pakistan's brilliant student body," said Rita Akhtar, Executive Director of USEFP. "This year, for the first time, we are providing visiting representatives a chance to connect with Pakistani alumni and admitted students of their institutions. We've learned over the years that the personal connections forged during face-to-face conversations with representatives encourage more Pakistani students to enroll in U.S. colleges and universities."

    EducationUSA Pakistan is the only free and official source for higher education in the United States and a part of the U.S. Department of State's network of more than 425 international student advising centers in more than 175 countries. Pakistan's EducationUSA team is made up exclusively of U.S. graduates, allowing advisers to share firsthand experience with applicants. In Pakistan, EducationUSA is managed by USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the Governments of Pakistan and the United States.

    To learn more about EducationUSA's free advising services, please visit: www.usefp.org.

  • Islamabad - February 9, 2020: The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) invites Pakistani students to apply for the prestigious 2021 Fulbright Student Program (Master's and PhD) and Fulbright-Higher Education Commission PhD Program, which fully funds PhD study at top universities in the United States. The application form is available online at www.usefp.org, and the application deadline is May 13, 2020.

    U.S. Ambassador Paul Jones said, "For almost 70 years, the U.S.-Pakistan education partnership has supported Pakistani and U.S. students and faculty to study or teach in each other's countries under the Fulbright program. Education exchanges remain a cornerstone of U.S.-Pakistan ties, and the U.S. government is pleased to support Pakistani students with diverse backgrounds in obtaining graduate-level education of the highest standard. The knowledge and expertise these scholars gain will boost Pakistan's human capital and contribute to its long-term economic development -- a great example how the United States and Pakistan are #partners4prosperity."

    The Fulbright Program in Pakistan covers travel, living stipends, health insurance, and tuition for the entire period of study. Women, people with disabilities, and students from rural and underrepresented areas are highly encouraged to apply. All disciplines are eligible except clinical medicine. Applicants studying energy, water, agriculture, public health, education, social sciences, journalism, mass communication, arts and culture management, including heritage conservation and museum studies, urban and regional planning, environmental science/studies, security/peace studies, and data science disciplines are strongly encouraged to apply.

    "I would like to encourage anyone who is eligible and interested in graduate education to consider applying to the prestigious Fulbright Program. Among successful applicants, some are fresh graduates, others are working professionals, and in recent years more than half are women," said USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar.

    USEFP is a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States. Since its inception, more than 7,500 Pakistanis and 900 Americans have participated in USEFP-managed exchange programs. Its mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the United States through exchange programs.

  • Islamabad - January 14, 2020: In December, the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan held a pre-departure orientation for 98 Pakistani undergraduate students who received scholarships to study in the United States for one semester under the Global Undergraduate Semester Exchange Program (Global UGRAD), funded by the U.S. government. The participants have now arrived at their U.S. campuses.

    "Study abroad is one the best educational tools for students to gain new skills and a global perspective," said U.S. Ambassador Paul Jones. "When you return home, I know you will use your experience and knowledge to help move your communities and country toward a brighter future."

    Participants were competitively selected and represent a broad geographic cross-section of Pakistan. Sixty-eight percent of the students are women. The participants will take undergraduate classes at leading U.S. colleges and universities, as well as engage in community service as part of their academic and cultural immersion in the United States.

    "These students represent the best of Pakistan and will be wonderful ambassadors for their country," said the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) Executive Director Rita Akhtar.

    Abdul Salam Mehsood, a Fall 2018 Global UGRAD alumnus, shared how the community service experience inspired him to become a motivational speaker, social activist, and trainer in Pakistan. "During my program in the United States, I volunteered as an assistant coach. Not only did I want to share my love of soccer with youth in my new community, but I wanted to show others that a person with a disability can still actively and openly take part in society, they can still pursue their goals," said Abdul Salam.

    Since the Global UGRAD Program launched in 2010, approximately 1,970 Pakistani students have received one-semester scholarships to study in the United States. USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States, is one of 49 Fulbright Commissions throughout the world. Since its inception, around 7,500 Pakistanis and more than 900 Americans have participated in USEFP-managed exchange programs. Its mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the United States through educational and cultural exchange programs. For more information, visit www.usefp.org

2019

  • Islamabad - December 16, 2019: More than 200 Fulbright alumni participated December 13-16 in the 16th annual Fulbright Alumni Conference. This year's theme "Global Best Practices in a Local Context" highlighted the diverse ways in which Fulbright alumni are blazing new paths for Pakistan in agriculture, education, the arts, and media. The Fulbright Student Program, jointly funded by the American and Pakistani governments, is the largest in the world and offers scholarships for hundreds of Pakistanis every year to pursue master's and doctoral programs in the United States.

    During the conference, U.S. Ambassador Paul Jones congratulated the alumni on their accomplishments and their continued commitment to applying the skills they developed in the United States to make advancements in key sectors in Pakistan.

    "The Fulbright Program remains one of the most prestigious academic exchange programs in the world. Fulbright alumni return to Pakistan enriched academically, with new global networks in their field of study. We appreciate the knowledge and commitment of alumni as bridge-builders between our peoples and our nations," said Ambassador Paul Jones at the event.

    Conference participants are part of a growing alumni network of more than 29,000 Pakistanis of U.S. Government-funded exchange programs, the largest of its kind in the world.

    The Fulbright Program, sponsored by the Department of State, is the U.S. Government's flagship international exchange program and is supported by the people of the United States and partner countries around the world. Since 1946, the Fulbright Program has provided more than 390,000 participants from over 155 countries with the opportunity to study, teach, conduct research, exchange ideas, and contribute to finding solutions to shared international concerns. Notable Pakistani Fulbright alumni include former Prime Minister Moeenuddin Ahmad Qureshi; Dr. Hassan Askari Rizvi, who served as caretaker Chief Minister of Punjab; Dr. Shamshad Akhtar, who served as the caretaker Finance Minister and who served as the 14th Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan, the first woman to assume this position; Dr. Razia Sultana, Vice Chancellor of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Women University, Peshawar; and Muhammad Khalid Masud, Director General of the Islamic Research Institute, International Islamic University.

    The U.S. Educational Foundation in Pakistan (Fulbright Commission) administers the Fulbright Program in Pakistan. For more information, please visit http://www.usefp.org.

  • Islamabad - December 4, 2019: More than 250 Pakistani higher education officials from across the country attended the first-ever international conference on higher education quality assurance December 4-5 in Islamabad. The Higher Education Commission (HEC) and the United States Educational Foundation in (USEFP) organized the conference, funded by the United States government. Titled "Quality Assurance System, Standards and Policies: Issues and Challenges," the conference featured Council of Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) President Judith Eaton from the United States and international education leaders from many other countries. Conference participants shared best practices, heard from industry experts, and discussed mutual challenges in increasing quality in higher education sectors worldwide.

    President of Pakistan Dr. Arif Alvi, Minister of Federal Education and Professional Training Mr. Shafqat Mahmood, and HEC Chairman Dr. Tariq Banuri spoke at the opening ceremony. Minister Mahmood and Dr. Banuri cited the long history of U.S.-Pakistan education collaboration, including Minister Mahmood's own Humphrey scholarship to study in the United States.

    In the opening ceremony, U.S. Ambassador Paul Jones, Chargé d'Affaires a.i., congratulated the Pakistani government, Vice Chancellors, and other senior officials in attendance for their commitment to improving the quality of higher education across the country.

    "As Pakistan looks to address challenges and issues in assessing its higher education sector, and looks to build a future that is both more inclusive and more prosperous for its people, Pakistan's youth must be prepared to lead the way, and that process can start now with the leaders in this room," said Ambassador Paul Jones at the event.

    According to the HEC, global demand for higher education enrollment is projected to increase by 200 percent by 2040 with implications for the demand for quality assurance services. These services must meet both local and international standards. The conference is an important step for Pakistan to establish a CHEA South Asia Chapter and meeting this goal.

    USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States, is one of 49 Fulbright Commissions throughout the world. For more information, please visit www.usefp.org.

  • Islamabad - November 22, 2019: The U.S. Embassy and EducationUSA celebrated International Education Week (IEW), November 18 to 22, by encouraging future Pakistani leaders to study in the United States, home of the world's top universities. More than 7,900 Pakistanis currently study at universities across the United States, and the U.S. government would like to increase that number.

    "More Pakistanis are studying in the United States this year than last year - a five percent increase. In fact, Pakistan is among the fastest growing emerging market places of origin for international students in the United States," said Lisa Heller, the U.S. Embassy's Minister Counselor for Public Affairs in Islamabad. "The U.S. government is committed to supporting educational opportunities and academic exchanges for Pakistani students from all backgrounds."

    2019 IEW activities included: the annual High Achievers' and Counselors' Recognition Ceremony in Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi, which honored outstanding students from local high schools and highlighted the hard work of counselors; a networking event co-hosted by the U.S. Consulate in Karachi that brought together notable Vice Chancellors and Pakistani alumni of U.S. government exchanges; and "Study Beyond Borders" sessions in Islamabad and Karachi focusing on the benefits of U.S. exchange programs. The U.S. Embassy also hosted a Power 99 radio "Tea-Time" and "Facebook Live" interview on the benefits of studying in the United States.

    "IEW activities are planned and organized by EducationUSA advisers who have firsthand experience of study in the United States and are well-positioned to guide students through their applications," said Rita Akhtar, Executive Director of the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) which runs the EducationUSA program. She encouraged students to participate in the free events and opportunities to learn about studying in the United States, adding, "Through exposure to new cultures, ways of thinking, and friendships with people from around the world, studying abroad prepares Pakistani students to thrive in an increasingly globalized world."

    EducationUSA offers free guidance and assistance to students interested in applying to or learning about U.S. colleges and universities. It has offices in Islamabad, Karachi and Lahore and its advisers travel throughout the country to provide advice studying in the United States. USEFP is a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States. For more information, please visit www.usefp.org.

  • Islamabad, July 25, 2019 - After receiving the prestigious Fulbright Scholarship, 156 Pakistani students will pursue Master's and Ph.D. studies or teach at top universities in the United States. U.S. Embassy Islamabad Chargé d'Affaires a.i. John Hoover congratulated the Pakistani students at an event preparing the recipients for the exchange program.

    "The American government believes in the power of education, and we're investing accordingly," Chargé Hoover said, adding, "We do so because we believe that investing in these programs strengthens our relationship, builds stability, and leads to mutual economic prosperity."

    The 2019 Fulbright cohort hails from 42 universities across Pakistan, with women representing 58 percent of the group. The 156 new Fulbright students will attend more than 80 U.S. universities across academic disciplines, including engineering, energy management, and social sciences.

    "This group is about to embark on an experience that will enrich their lives," noted U.S. Education Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) Executive Director Rita Akhtar. "They were selected on merit - not just grades and test scores, but also their achievements in the context of their opportunities. They will return to Pakistan with advanced degrees and join our proud Fulbright alumni to enrich the lives of others by contributing to Pakistan's development in nearly every sector."

    2013 Fulbright alumna Shima Bibi, the first woman in her family and her home village to earn a Ph.D., encouraged the participants to take full advantage of their experience in the United States. "By sitting a multicultural class with people from all over the world, you will not only gain knowledge, but will also grow in all aspects of your life," said Shima.

    Since its inception, over 7,100 Pakistanis and more than 900 Americans have participated in USEFP-managed exchange programs. In addition to the Fulbright program, USEFP manages a number of scholarship programs for undergraduates, teachers, journalists, and other professionals. For more information, visit www.usefp.org.

  • Islamabad, July 19, 2019 - Approximately 144 Pakistani undergraduate students received scholarships to study in the United States for one semester under the Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD) program funded by the U.S. government.

    Starting this September, the participants will take undergraduate classes at leading U.S. colleges and universities, as well as attend service-learning programs and professional development workshops as part of their academic and cultural immersion in the United States.

    "The United States has a long tradition of embracing international students. I am confident you will represent your nation with honor," said Christopher Fitzgerald, Acting Deputy Chief of Mission at an event preparing the scholarship recipients for the exchange. "When you come home to Pakistan, I know you will become leaders in your own communities and bring what you learned in the United States to those around you."

    "The group of students here today represent the best of Pakistan," said the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan Executive Director Rita Akhtar. "They are selected on merit from thousands of applicants from every part of this country: from Tharparkur to Hunza, from Gwadar to Swat."

    Ujala Bashir, a spring 2018 Global UGRAD alumna, shared her exchange journey and how the community service experience at HAVEN in Bozeman, Montana, inspired her to develop a crisis center for domestic violence survivors in Pakistan. "My greatest accomplishment was when a survivor I had coached on the phone contacted HAVEN to tell me that I had saved her life," said Ujala.

    Since the Global UGRAD Program launched in 2010, approximately 1,850 Pakistani students have received one-semester scholarships to study in the United States. For more information about Global UGRAD and together U.S. educational and cultural exchange programs, please visit: www.usefp.org.

  • Islamabad, July 17, 2019 - More than 80 students gathered at the Islamabad Serena Hotel to prepare to travel to the United States for university studies. EducationUSA at the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) hosted this annual pre-departure orientation (PDO) - one of three such events across Pakistan - to prepare approximately 200 students that participated in EducationUSA advising programs for undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate studies in the United States.

    "Studying abroad in an American university will allow for invaluable academic, professional and personal growth, and open up a variety of career opportunities for Pakistani students," noted Christopher Fitzgerald, the Minister Counselor for Public Affairs at the United States Embassy. "Living and studying with a diverse range of people in the United States enhances any student's ability to interact with people from other cultures and analyze issues with a global perspective, both essential skills for success in any field."

    The PDO is the final step in EducationUSA's advising process, which guides hundreds of Pakistani students each year through the application process for admission to colleges and universities in the United States. The PDO is a moment to recognize students' hard work throughout the previous year, and to celebrate their successes before they depart for campuses across the United States.

    "It was really nice to be in a room full of people embarking on the same journey as I was," said Alezeh Mumtaz, who attended the 2018 PDO in Islamabad before starting her undergraduate studies at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. "Being able to connect with people beforehand made me feel like I wasn't alone."

    According to the Institute of International Education's Open Doors Report, over 7,500 Pakistanis studied in the United States during the 2017-2018 academic year, a 7.4 percent increase over the previous year and the highest total in six years.

    Rita Akhtar, Executive Director USEFP, said, "It is a goal of our organization to expand opportunities for Pakistani students to study in the United States. With more than 4,000 U.S. universities to choose from, many offering some type of financial assistance, Pakistani students have study opportunities of which they may not be aware. We are pleased to work with EducationUSA to help Pakistani students achieve their higher education dreams."

    Many of these students are familiar faces to EducationUSA advisers in Pakistan, who work with prospective students on all parts of the application process, from compiling a list of schools to which students will apply, to securing financial aid, tackling application requirements, and applying for visas. EducationUSA is a U.S. Department of State network with 450 advising centers in more than 175 countries and is the official source on U.S. higher education. All EducationUSA advisers in Pakistan have U.S. degrees.

    In addition to signing up for free advising services offered at USEFP, students are encouraged to attend a wide variety of free workshops and seminars held throughout the year. USEFP also manages the prestigious Fulbright Student Program and several other scholarships and fellowships for Pakistani students interested in studying in the United States.

    Students interested in pursuing higher education in the United States should contact advising@usefp.org and visit www.usefp.org to learn more about scholarship programs and other services.

  • Representatives from 41 U.S. universities met with thousands of students and their parents across Pakistan

    Islamabad, February 22, 2019 - To promote higher education opportunities for Pakistani students, representatives of 41 U.S. universities traveled to Pakistan last week on EducationUSA Pakistan's 14th bi-annual South Asia Tour. This is largest South Asia Tour organized by EducationUSA at the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) ever to visit Pakistan. In addition to visits to selected schools and universities, a U.S. College Fair was held in Karachi, Lahore and Faisalabad that provided thousands of Pakistani students, parents, counselors, and local university officials an opportunity to learn about these universities, explore a wide range of academic programs, and receive first-hand guidance on applying for admission.

    "By encouraging more Pakistanis to study in the United States, we enhance mutual understanding between both countries," said Chargé d'Affaires a.i. Ambassador Paul Jones. "That is why the U.S. government has invested so much to fund exchange programs for Pakistanis and remains committed to supporting Pakistani students interested in pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees programs in the United States."

    "Once again this South Asia Tour is breaking records for the number of participating universities," said USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar. "This shows that U.S. universities are pleased with the quality of students they are meeting in Pakistan. According to the representatives, Pakistani students are talented and well-prepared for study in the United States and they are ready to welcome more, often providing some financial assistance."

    Of these 41 U.S. universities, 10 were visiting Pakistan for the first time. They include Drake University, Indiana University - Bloomington, McNeese State University, New York Film Academy, Northern Illinois University, San Jose State University, Springfield College, University of Vermont, University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire, and Youngstown State University.

    About EducationUSA: EducationUSA Pakistan is your official source on higher education in the United States and a part of a U.S. Department of State network of over 425 international student advising centers in more than 175 countries. EducationUSA Pakistan adheres to the highest ethical standards and is staffed with professional advisers with first-hand experience of study in the United States and offers free advising services. In Pakistan, EducationUSA is managed by USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the Governments of Pakistan and the United States. It is one of 49 Fulbright Commissions located throughout the world. For further information about EducationUSA Pakistan's free advising services, please visit www.usefp.org.

  • Islamabad, February 12, 2019 - The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) invites Pakistani students to apply for the prestigious 2020 Fulbright Student (Master's and PhD) and Fulbright-Higher Education Commission (HEC) PhD Program, which fully funds Master's or PhD study at top universities in the United States. The application form is available online at www.usefp.org, and the application deadline is May 15, 2019. Women, people with disabilities, and students from rural and underrepresented areas are highly encouraged to apply. All disciplines are eligible except clinical medicine. Applicants studying energy, water, agriculture, public health, education, social sciences, journalism, mass communication, arts and culture management, including heritage conservation and museum studies, urban and regional planning, environmental science/studies, security/peace studies, and data science disciplines are strongly encouraged to apply.

    "The Fulbright Program is a cornerstone of the strong ties between the American and Pakistani people," said Christopher Fitzgerald, Minister Counselor for Public Affairs at the United States Mission in Pakistan. "Fulbright is not just an academic scholarship - it is a program that produces strong leaders who return to Pakistan upon completion of their studies and make a difference in improving their communities. And because Pakistani Fulbrighters come from diverse backgrounds and regions, the impact is felt nationwide across society, spanning the nearly seven decades of Fulbright in Pakistan. We expect the Fulbright program to receive applications from dedicated students who seek to develop academically, participate in the opportunities the United States offers, and who will build a more secure and prosperous Pakistan."

    The Fulbright Program in Pakistan covers travel, living stipends, health insurance, and tuition for the entire period of study.

    "I would like to encourage anyone who is eligible and interested in graduate education to consider applying to the prestigious Fulbright Program. Among successful applicants, some are fresh graduates, others are working professionals, and in recent years more than half are women. To become a Fulbrighter, it's important to have a good academic record but it's just as important to have a commitment to returning to Pakistan and using the degree to make a positive difference," said USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar.

    USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States, is one of 49 Fulbright Commissions throughout the world. Since its inception, over 7,000 Pakistanis and more than 900 Americans have participated in USEFP-managed exchange programs. Its mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the United States through educational and cultural exchange programs. In addition to the Fulbright program, USEFP manages a number of scholarship programs for undergraduates, teachers, journalists, and other professionals.

    The Fulbright-HEC PhD program is made possible through financial support from the Higher Education Commission. Demonstrating their commitment to higher education and the U.S.-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor, the Government of Pakistan has agreed to provide more than $25 million USD, which will support up to 125 PhD students.

2018

  • Islamabad, December 3, 2018 - Pakistan is home to the largest Fulbright program in the world. The program allows Pakistani students to pursue master's and doctoral degrees in the United States. More than 200 Pakistani alumni of the Fulbright Program gathered at the Serena Hotel in Islamabad from November 30 to December 2 for the 15th annual conference focused on "Emerging Leaders." The event highlighted the diverse ways in which alumni are blazing new paths for Pakistan in agriculture, education, the arts, and media.

    This past weekend, Christopher Fitzgerald, Minister-Counselor for Public Affairs at the U.S. Mission to Pakistan, congratulated the alumni on their accomplishments and urged them to continue applying the skills and connections they developed in the United States to their professional and personal pursuits in Pakistan.

    "For almost 70 years, the United States has brought future leaders from Pakistan for study in America under the Fulbright program, and Americans have come to Pakistan for study and research. This year, 800 Pakistanis are in the United States on a variety of academic and professional development programs. Alumni of these exchange programs become leaders in Pakistan and bridge-builders between our countries. We're very proud of them," Fitzgerald said at the event.

    The participants of the conference join a network of over 25,000 alumni of various overseas and in-country exchange programs, the largest network of its kind, supported by the United States of America. Each year over 800 Pakistanis participate in high school, undergraduate, graduate, and professional U.S.-sponsored exchanges.

    USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the Governments of Pakistan and the United States, administers the Global UGRAD program in partnership with the U.S. Mission in Pakistan. For more information about Global UGRAD and the other U.S. educational and cultural exchange programs, please visit www.usefp.org. For more information about the U.S. Embassy's educational activities and exchange programs, visit https://pk.usembassy.gov. The U.S. Educational Foundation in Pakistan (Fulbright Commission) administers the Fulbright Program on behalf of the U.S. government. For more information about the U.S. Educational Foundation in Pakistan and its programs, visit www.usefp.org.

  • Islamabad, December 11, 2018 - United States Chargé d' Affaires Paul Jones today congratulated more than 135 Pakistani undergraduate students who were selected to participate in U.S. Government-funded Global Undergraduate Semester Exchange Program (Global UGRAD). Since 2010, approximately 1,700 Pakistani students have participated in the Global UGRAD program, where they spend a semester studying at U.S. colleges and universities.

    "America has a long tradition of embracing international students on its university and college campuses," Ambassador Jones noted. "In the United States, you will become great cultural ambassadors and representatives of Pakistan. I am proud we can support your educational pursuits through the Global UGRAD program."

    Global UGRAD participants from Pakistan are selected from across the country and will study a variety of academic fields, which include engineering, business administration, and the sciences.

    U.S. Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) Executive Director Rita Akhtar encouraged students to take full advantage of the academic and extracurricular activities available in the United States.

    "The Global UGRAD program gives talented students who are committed to helping their communities and country an opportunity to study in the United States," Akhtar said. "The program also involves exciting community service and cultural exchange activities. When Global UGRAD participants return to Pakistan, they have opportunities to build on their volunteer experience by availing small grants through the Pakistan - U.S. Alumni Network (PUAN). This is an exceptional group of students who will make a wonderful impression on U.S. students and faculty through this unique exchange opportunity."

    USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the Governments of Pakistan and the United States, administers the Global UGRAD program in partnership with the U.S. Mission in Pakistan. For more information about Global UGRAD and the other U.S. educational and cultural exchange programs, please visit www.usefp.org.

  • Islamabad, October 7, 2018 - To promote higher education opportunities for Pakistani students, representatives of 38 U.S. universities traveled to Pakistan this week. This year, EducationUSA Pakistan at the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) hosted the largest group of U.S. university representatives to ever visit Pakistani schools and universities. The 13th biannual South Asia Tour provided thousands of Pakistani students, parents, counselors, and local university officials with an opportunity to explore a wide range of academic programs and receive first-hand guidance on applying for admission.

    "The U.S. Embassy was pleased to support this opportunity for students to meet in person with representatives of a wide range of U.S. universities and to discuss their study plans," said Christopher Fitzgerald, the Minister Counselor for Public Affairs at the U.S. Embassy to Pakistan. "Building enduring bonds between the American and Pakistani people is the strength of the bilateral relationship. Studying in the United States, learning from classmates, and educating them about Pakistan's culture is an enriching and life-changing experience, as well as a positive way to create life-long connections."

    "We are pleased to be able to say that a record number of participating universities are participating in the South Asia Tour this fall," said USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar. "It shows that U.S. universities are more welcoming than ever of students from Pakistan. It is also a vote of confidence in the quality of Pakistan's student population. We constantly hear praise from such representatives that Pakistani students are talented and well-prepared for study in the United States."

    Of these 38 U.S. universities, 17 were visiting for the first time. They include, Ohio University, Boise State University, Colby-Sawyer College, New York Institute of Technology, Kent State University, Louisiana Tech University, University of Illinois - Chicago, Monmouth University, Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis, The University of Texas at Arlington - College of Engineering, State University of New York at Fredonia (SUNY), Michigan State University, Florida International University, Pittsburg State University, Augustana University, Coe College, and Fordham University.

    About EducationUSA: EducationUSA, with its global network of over 400 advising centers, is the U.S. Government office responsible for providing information on study in the United States. EducationUSA offers free advice and assistance to students interested in applying to or learning about U.S. colleges and universities. In Pakistan, the program is administered by USEFP and supported by the U.S. Embassy and its Consulates and has three offices in various locations throughout the country. USEFP is a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States. It is one of 49 Fulbright Commissions located throughout the world. For further information about EducationUSA's services, please visit www.usefp.org.

  • Islamabad, August 27, 2018 - The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP), in collaboration with Educational Programs (EdPrograms), took forty-six Pakistani high school students, thirteen counselors and four EducationUSA staff members to the U.S. on a summer tour of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to get a taste of American higher education through a series of short classes and workshops.

    Career Pathways is a three-week summer program offering multidisciplinary summer classes to high school students at a range of different U.S. colleges and universities. Concurrently, high school counselors are offered professional development programs related to counseling and admissions practices in the United States.

    Participants in Career Pathways choose to explore the American Midwest or the East Coast as parallel tours saw twenty-four students and seven counselors visit ten HEIs across four states (Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Iowa) from June 18 to July 8 in the Midwest while twenty-one students and six counselors visited fifteen HEIs through another four states (New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, and Connecticut) from July 15 to August 5 on the East Coast.

    "This tour was more than I expected," explains Muhammad Azmat Fareed from the American Foundation School for A-level Studies (TAFSAL) who participated in the Midwest program. "We experienced life as a student in USA, learned about American culture and their way of doing things." "We met a lot of people in the admission departments at different universities, got first-hand information, and will stay in touch with them for sure."

    Syed Muhammad Zain Ul Hassan from Roots Millennium Future World School in Lahore participated in the East Coast program and recalls that, "Career Pathways did what it set out to do and more. The tour allowed me to finalize my decision on what course to apply for and gave me a far better idea of how to pursue it in the future." "The universities gave us a good idea of what is needed to apply and how to ensure a spot in their freshmen classes. It was fun too," he added. "The tourist activities allowed us to let loose and truly enjoy our experience. An experience of a lifetime!"

    Students learned about career development, health sciences, business, entrepreneurship, computer sciences, media sciences, film production, engineering, informatics, international relations, public policy, civic engagement and much more. They returned to Pakistan with a deeper understanding of the American education system and newly fields in an evolving marketplace.

    "The transformation we see in the students in a span of three weeks, justifies the importance of the Career Pathways Program", notes the Director of EdPrograms Umair Khan. "Students not only learn about unconventional fields of study, they get to experience life as an international student on multiple campuses instead of at just one university. Above all, this program reestablishes the quality of education all the U.S. universities offer to international students."

    The accompanying high school counselors were afforded unique opportunities to build on their skills as counselors and to learn more about the U.S. college admissions process directly from key stakeholders at select universities and colleges. According to Sundus Ali, EducationUSA Pakistan, "For counselors and educationists, Career Pathways is a professional development opportunity that helps expand their horizons by learning about what the U.S. universities have to offer. We offer a bridge connecting you to the future!"

    EdPrograms is an organization established to promote international education through short-term summer immersion programs. Students pay the costs of their participation; information about upcoming tours and how to participate is available at www.edprograms.org.

    EducationUSA, a State Department organization, is the official source of information on higher education in the United States with offices in over 160 countries, providing free and unbiased education advising services which students can register for at: http://www.usefp.org/Advising/Signup/Student.cfm?Tab=Advising.

    USEFP is a binational commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States to manage the Fulbright and other academic exchange programs between the two countries.

  • Islamabad, July 23, 2018 - EducationUSA hosted orientation sessions at the United States Education Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi for 194 students. The students will be starting undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate programs at colleges and universities throughout the United States.

    According to the Open Doors Report, 7,015 Pakistanis studied in the United States during the 2016-2017 academic year, an increase of 14.2 percent over the previous year and the highest total in the last five years.

    Many of those students took advantage of USEFP's free educational advising services when they applied to U.S. colleges and universities.

    "Your child's education is the best investment you can make, and the United States is the best possible destination for higher education," said USEFP Executive Director Ms. Rita Akhtar. "I encourage other parents and students to visit our EducationUSA offices to see how we can help make their dream of a U.S. degree possible."

    Students interested in pursuing higher education in the United States should contact advising@usefp.org and visit www.usefp.org to learn more about scholarship programs and other services.

  • Islamabad, July 20, 2018 - Thanks to the U.S. government-funded program, over 108 students from across Pakistan will spend a semester in the United States studying at colleges and universities alongside American peers.

    During a pre-departure orientation in Islamabad, American Embassy Chargé d' Affaires John Hoover congratulated the students who have been selected to participate in the fall 2018 Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD).

    Chargé Hoover told the students they would become "powerful messengers" between the United States and Pakistan. "You will tell stories that go beyond the headlines," he said, "and your stories will give your friends and families a genuine understanding of the shared values between our two nations."

    2017 Global UGRAD alumna Fer Ghanaa Ansari shared stories of her year studying in New jersey and explained how her time abroad changed her. "I fully realized all that I had gained from the UGRAD experience only after I came back," she said. "I gained confidence; I wanted to take more initiatives to make my country better; I wanted to remain an active member of my community."

    USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States, helps the American Embassy administer the Global UGRAD Program in Pakistan. Executive Director Rita Akhtar said that since the program began in 2010, more than 1,500 students have participated as Global UGrads, and 60 have gone on to study for Master's or PhD degrees in the United States on the prestigious Fulbright Program.

    For more information, please visit www.usefp.org. For more information about the American Embassy's activities in Pakistan, please visit pk.usembassy.gov.

  • Islamabad, July 12, 2018 - American Embassy Chargé d' Affaires John Hoover and Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs Marie Royce spoke to 156 Pakistani Fulbright Scholarship recipients preparing to leave for the U.S., where they will pursue advanced studies and research.

    The Fulbright Program is the American government's flagship academic exchange program, and, thanks to the contributions by both the American and Pakistani governments, Pakistan's program is one of the largest in the world. The Pakistani participants will attend 70 U.S. universities to study and conduct research in a wide variety academic disciplines, including engineering, social sciences and energy management.

    The Chargé d' Affairs congratulated the students on being selected for the prestigious program but told them to begin thinking about how they can help Pakistan when they return.

    "What you do next is what truly matters," he said. "How you take the knowledge you'll gain in America-whether from textbook, your professors or the everyday challenges of life-and use it to benefit all of society will determine where life takes you."

    Noting that "the President has said that we must empower women as pillars of our society and of our success," Royce emphasized that 46 percent of this year's students are women. She also singled out the work of Fulbright alumna Dr. Najma Najam, who founded Fatima Jinnah Women's University and helped create "the next generation of the country's women leaders."

    Since 1946, the Fulbright Program-which is administered by the U.S. Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP)-has provided more than 370,000 participants from around the world the opportunity to conduct research, implement skills and ideas, teach, and contribute to society. To learn more about the Fulbright Program and about U.S. education initiatives in Pakistan, visit usefpakistan.org and pk.usembassy.gov.

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    For inquiries, contact: Rubab Hussain Media Coordinator rubab@usefp.org (051) 8431 550

    The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan Announces 2019 Fulbright Student (Master's and PhD) Program

    Islamabad, February 6, 2018 - The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) invites Pakistani students to apply for the prestigious 2019 Fulbright Student (Master's and PhD) and Fulbright-Higher Education Commission (HEC) PhD Program, which fully funds Master's or PhD study at top universities in the United States. The application form is available online at www.usefp.org, and the application deadline is May 16, 2018. Women, people with disabilities, and students from rural and underrepresented areas are highly encouraged to apply. All disciplines are eligible except clinical medicine. Applicants studying energy, water, health, education, and agricultural disciplines are strongly encouraged to apply.

    "The American government believes in the power of education, and we're investing accordingly. The Fulbright Program in Pakistan is one of the largest in the world, and we're pleased that the Government of Pakistan provides strong support for this academic program alongside us. Fulbright is the flagship educational exchange program for America, and it sets the bar for exchange programs worldwide," said Kathryn Crockart, Minister Counselor for Public Affairs at the American Embassy. "If selected, you will be a cultural ambassador, allowing Americans the unique opportunity to learn more about Pakistan. You will also have the opportunity to learn wonderful things about America and the American people that you might not have expected."

    Since 2005, 2,028 Pakistanis have received Fulbright awards for graduate degrees. In fall 2018, approximately 170 Pakistani students will depart for the United States to participate in this program. The Fulbright Program in Pakistan is the largest in the world in terms of the U.S. Government's financial contribution and covers travel, living stipends, health insurance, and tuition for the entire period of study.

    "The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) has managed the Fulbright Program here since 1950. We are so pleased to be able to offer so many fully-funded Fulbright Scholarships in Pakistan and I would like every eligible person to consider applying. Higher education in the United States is unmatched anywhere in the world, and many people who would not otherwise have dreamed that they could study there are now able to do so, thanks to this program. The program is merit-based, but merit is measured in terms of potential rather than just grades or test scores. Successful applicants come from all parts of Pakistan and from public as well as private universities," said USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar.

    USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States, is one of 49 Fulbright Commissions throughout the world. Since its inception, nearly 7,000 Pakistanis and more than 900 Americans have participated in USEFP-managed exchange programs. Its mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the United States through educational and cultural exchange programs. In addition to the Fulbright program, USEFP manages a number of scholarship programs for undergraduates, teachers, journalists, and other professionals.

    The Fulbright-HEC PhD program is made possible through financial support from the Higher Education Commission. Demonstrating their commitment to higher education and the U.S.-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor, the Government of Pakistan has agreed to provide more than $5 million USD each year for five years, which will support up to 125 PhD students.

2017

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    Pakistani Students Prepare for a Semester at American Universities

     

     

    Islamabad, December 21, 2017 - American Ambassador David Hale congratulated 111 Pakistani undergraduate students who have been selected to participate in the Spring 2018 U.S. Government-funded Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD) during a pre-departure orientation in Islamabad. Since Global UGRAD's launch in 2010, approximately 1,500 Pakistani students have participated in the program, which allows students to spend a semester studying alongside American peers at American colleges and universities.

    "The American government believes in the power of education and believes in investments that build a strong and stable Pakistan," Ambassador Hale said. "That is why our Embassy in Islamabad sponsors the largest array of academic and professional exchange programs of any American Embassy in the world."

    Pakistani Global UGRAD participants were selected from across Pakistan and represent a broad range of academic fields including humanities, engineering, business administration, and sciences.

    U.S. Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) Executive Director Rita Akhtar encouraged students to take full advantage of the academic and extracurricular activities available in the United States.

    "Global UGRAD is our most popular program," Akhtar said. "Enthusiasm continues to grow as students come back from the United States and share what they've learned about U.S. people, U.S. higher education, and community service. The number of applications for this student exchange opportunity increases every year. In 2017, we've received more than 13,000 applications! Global UGRAD students are selected on merit and come from nearly every part of Pakistan. It is a great achievement to be selected and we are certain wonderful experiences await you in USA."

    USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States, helps the U.S. Embassy administer the Global UGRAD Program in Pakistan. Its mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the United States through educational and cultural exchange programs. For more information, please visit www.usefp.org. For more information about the American Embassy's activities in Pakistan, please visit http://pk.usembassy.gov.

  • PRESS RELEASE-

    For inquiries, contact: Rubab Hussain Media Coordinator rubab@usefp.org (051) 8431 550

    International Education Week: Celebrating the benefits of International Education and Exchanges

     

     

    Islamabad - November 18, 2017: To foster educational and cultural exchanges, EducationUSA at the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) celebrated International Education Week (IEW) November 13-18 in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi. IEW, a joint initiative between the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education, promotes the benefits of international education and exchanges.

    "International students gain cutting-edge skills and a better appreciation of the complexity, challenges, and opportunities of life in the 21st century," said Michelle Los Banos, Deputy Public Affairs Officer at the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad. "The experience broadens their world view and gives them an edge in today's competitive job market."

    To celebrate U.S.-Pakistan education cooperation during IEW, EducationUSA organized its first-ever EducationUSA Career Day in Lahore and Karachi and the USEFP Fall Fest in Islamabad. The Career Day gave high school and college students the chance to network with prospective employers. The Fall Fest, which provided a platform for students to showcase their creativity, raised funds for local non-profits.

    Rita Akhtar, USEFP Executive Director, encouraged students and parents to take advantage of the IEW activities and learn more about higher education in the U.S. "Pakistani students who study in the United States are well prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the global economy," she said. "Studying abroad also strengthens ties and fosters friendship among students from different countries."

    Outstanding students and guidance counselors from local high schools were also honored during IEW in a High Achievers' and Counselors' Recognition Ceremony. In addition, to promote a sense of civic responsibility among students, community service activities were organized at centers catering to the underprivileged. Students also logged onto webinars and virtual advising sessions with university representatives in the United States.

    EducationUSA at USEFP offers free advice and assistance to students interested in applying to or learning about U.S. colleges and universities. USEFP is a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States. It is one of 49 Fulbright Commissions located throughout the world. For more information, please visit www.usefp.org.

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    U.S. Universities: Seeking the Best and Brightest in Pakistan Representatives of 17 U.S. universities met with thousands of students and their parents across Pakistan to encourage study in the U.S.

     

     

    Islamabad, September 23, 2017 - A group of 17 university representatives traveled to Pakistan from the United States as part of the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan's (USEFP) and EducationUSA's effort to facilitate U.S. study opportunities for Pakistani students. During the 11th biannual South Asia Tour, the university representatives visited Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, where they participated in college fairs and conducted high school and university visits. In meetings with Pakistani students, parents, and teachers, the representatives shared information regarding admissions, financial aid, and academic programs in the United States. American institutions of higher education actively recruit Pakistani students because of the contributions they make to U.S. campuses, including through diversity and commitment to academic achievement.

    "For some of the Pakistani students, this was their first opportunity to meet in person with a U.S. university representative and to discuss their study plans," said Kathryn Crockart, the Minister Counselor for Public Affairs at the U.S. Embassy. "We strongly encourage Pakistani parents and students to consider the opportunities that a U.S. education represents for graduates. The United States has more than 4,700 institutions of higher education. There are universities to fit every career goal and pocketbook. We hope to see more Pakistani students studying in the U.S. and sharing their cultural heritage with their American classmates."

    "Pakistani students' interest in opting for a U.S. degree has increased in recent years," said USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar. "The credit goes to the administration of educational institutions that encourage students to study in the United States and to parents who support this choice."

    The following universities participated in the tour: The University of Evansville, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, DePauw University, Hiram College, Albion College, Merrimack College, Point Park University, Siena College, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Colorado State University, Minerva Schools at KGI, University of South Dakota, Central Washington University, St. Cloud State University, Ohio Wesleyan University, Murray State University, and Stony Brook University.

    About EducationUSA:
    EducationUSA offers free advice and assistance to students interested in applying to or learning about U.S. colleges and universities. In Pakistan, the program is administered by USEFP and supported by the U.S. Embassy and its Consulates and has three offices in various locations throughout the country. USEFP is a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States. It is one of 49 Fulbright Commissions located throughout the world. For further information about EducationUSA's services, please visit www.usefp.org.

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    EducationUSA Career Pathways Tour Gives High School Students a Chance to Explore Careers and Majors at Colleges and Universities in USA

     

     

    Islamabad - August 10: Twenty-one high school students from nine different cities of Pakistan participated in a three-week long Career Pathways Tour and visited 10 colleges and universities in the Midwestern USA (Iowa, Illinois, and Indiana), from July 2 to 23, 2017. This was the second summer immersion program organized by EducationUSA at the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP). The tour provides Pakistani high school students a unique opportunity to experience American college-level academic learning through short classes and interactive workshops.

    One of the participants, Hashim Jalal from Roots International School, Gujranwala explains how the tour helped him learn about his prospective major: "Career Pathways has given me great exposure and opportunity to explore different educational fields. During my visit to the University of Northern Iowa, I learned about business and entrepreneurship and got a chance to visit local businesses. This opportunity gave me insight on what it is like to be a business major at a U.S. university." Shaherbano Noor from Super Nova College, Islamabad says: "The tour taught me that it's not just IVY league academic institutions that offer the major I am interested in. Public universities and liberal colleges are also great options."

    EducationUSA Pakistan Manager Umair Khan notes that students, parents, and school counselors are often unaware of the breadth and variety of academic majors and professions available in the United States. "This tour introduces Pakistani students to the large variety of academic programs available in the U.S. and encourages them to think beyond the conventional fields of medicine, engineering, and business. Traveling with our EducationUSA advisers and their own school counselors also promote students' maturity and independence."

    During the tour, students learned about, career development, health sciences, business, entrepreneurship, computer sciences, media sciences, film production, engineering, informatics, hospitality, and culinary arts. Activities like visit to the Indiana Dunes State Park and Jane Addams Hull-House Museum at UIC, baking pizzas at Kirkwood Community College, celebrating American Independence Day, canoeing, trying out virtual reality gadgets, making their own video game, and Zumba Dance classes were also part of the program.

    Students pay the costs of their participation. Information about the upcoming tour and how to participate is available at www.usefp.org/careerpathways.

    USEFP is a binational commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States to manage the Fulbright and other academic exchange programs between the two countries.

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    Pakistani Students Prepare for a Semester at U.S. Universities

     

     

    Islamabad, July 21, 2017: American Ambassador David Hale congratulated more than 100 Pakistani undergraduate students who have been selected to participate in the fall 2017 U.S. Government-funded Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD) during a pre-departure orientation in Islamabad. Since Global UGRAD's launch in 2010, approximately 1,400 Pakistani students have participated in the program, which allows students to spend a semester studying alongside American peers at American colleges and universities.

    "Meeting with bright, enthusiastic students like you is one of the best parts of my job," Ambassador Hale said. "The United States has a long tradition of embracing international students, and I am certain that each of you will represent your nation well and return home to Pakistan with new ideas and skills."

    Pakistani Global UGRAD participants hail from all across Pakistan and represent a broad range of academic fields including engineering, business administration, and the sciences.

    U.S. Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) Executive Director Rita Akhtar encouraged students to take full advantage of the academic and extracurricular activities available in the United States.

    "Global UGRAD is not only an academic experience," Akhtar said. "It is an opportunity to explore community service programs, to share your culture with the Americans you meet, and to broaden your perspective in other ways."

    Spring 2015 Global UGRAD alumna Alvina Ahmad commented, "After my return, I have come to realize that what I have in common with my international friends is faith and hope that each of our countries and its people are striving for excellence."

    USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States, helps the U.S. Embassy administer the Global UGRAD Program in Pakistan. Its mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the United States through educational and cultural exchange programs. For more information, please visit www.usefp.org. For more information about the American Embassy's activities in Pakistan, please visit http://pk.usembassy.gov.

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    173 Pakistanis Prepare to Begin Fulbright Studies and Research in the United States

    Islamabad, July 14, 2017 - American Embassy Chargé d'Affaires Jonathan Pratt congratulated 173 Pakistani students and scholars on receiving a prestigious Fulbright scholarship to pursue advanced studies and research in the United States. The Fulbright Program is the American government's flagship academic exchange program, and the Fulbright Program in Pakistan is one of the largest in the world thanks to contributions by both the American and Pakistani governments.

    "You made it through an incredibly competitive application process, and you and your families should be very proud of your achievement," Chargé d'Affaires Pratt said. "I'm especially pleased to see such a diverse group of Fulbright participants here, representing the many geographical regions of Pakistan and different walks of life."

     

     

    The 2017 Fulbright cohort is 54 percent female. The participants will attend 85 U.S. universities where they will pursue a wide variety of academic disciplines, including engineering, social sciences and energy management.

    "The Fulbright Program offers participants an unparalleled opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research and study alongside American peers," said U.S. Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) Executive Director Rita Akhtar. "This academic experience has a transformative effect not only on individual participants, but also on their communities after they return home."

    2014 Fulbright Master's Program alumna Saima Yawar commented, "When I look at Pakistan and my own journey, I see this program as a cornerstone for development of the future brand of leaders in my country. Pakistani students have gone to pursue study or research in the U.S. and returned to share gains of international learning, whether through continuing research back home or supporting the local communities and economy through business ventures."

    Since 1946, the Fulbright Program has provided more than 370,000 participants from around the world the opportunity to conduct research, implement skills and ideas, teach, and contribute to society. USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States, is one of 49 Fulbright Commissions throughout the world. Its mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the United States through educational and cultural exchange programs. In addition to the Fulbright program, USEFP manages U.S. Government-funded scholarship programs for undergraduates, teachers, journalists, and other professionals.

    To learn more about the Fulbright Program and about U.S. education initiatives in Pakistan, visit pk.usembassy.gov and usefpakistan.org.

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    Pakistani students prepare to depart for U.S. graduate and post-graduate programs

     

     

    Islamabad, June 20, 2017: In preparation for their upcoming graduate and post-graduate studies in the United States, approximately 260 students attended orientation sessions hosted by EducationUSA at the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi.

    EducationUSA Pakistan Advising Manager Umair Khan congratulated the students on being accepted into American universities and encouraged them to make the most of this opportunity.

    "You have achieved a great milestone," Khan said. "Your focus should now be to gain knowledge, learn about different cultures, face challenges with a positive attitude, and make the most of this educational experience."

    "In addition to pursuing your studies, you will have a unique opportunity to serve as ambassadors of Pakistan in your American classrooms and communities," Mimnaugh said. "I'm certain that the American students you encounter will be eager to learn more about your background, just as you learn from them about American culture."

    Many of the students who participated in the orientation sessions took advantage of USEFP's free educational advising services earlier, while they researched universities.

    "USEFP aims to strengthen the relationship between American universities and Pakistani students, and we are pleased to be able to help talented students achieve admission to American colleges and universities," said USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar.

    In addition to providing free educational advising services, USEFP manages several scholarship and professional development exchange programs, including the prestigious Fulbright Program. Students interested in higher education in the United States should contact advising@usefp.org and should visit www.usefp.org to learn more about scholarship programs and other services.

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    Pakistani School Counselors Learn about U.S. University Admissions Through Professional Development Tour

     

     

    Islamabad - May 30, 2017: 19 Pakistani secondary school counselors recently completed a two-week professional development tour in New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts organized by EducationUSA at the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP). Participants gathered information to effectively advise Pakistani students about higher education in the United States through meetings with U.S. university admissions officials and campus visits.

    "We are pleased to be able to provide school counselors with the skills and knowledge required to advise Pakistani students about college admissions, and to give them a chance to experience U.S. college and university campuses first hand," USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar said.

    In two weeks, 19 counselors visited 22 academic institutions in four states. They include: Stockton University, Rowan University, Rutgers University, Fairleigh Dickinson University, Monmouth University, Brookdale Community College, Stony Brook University, New York Film Academy, Columbia University, New York University, University of Bridgeport, Yale University, Mount Holyoke College, University of Massachusetts, Elms College, Western England University, Bay Path University, Worcester State University, Merrimack College, Suffolk University, Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

    "The High School Counselors tour is a great opportunity to showcase Pakistan, our education system and its amazing students to these 22 academic institutions. We hope that these Pakistani counselors will use the knowledge gained during the tour to encourage and help students with the admissions and enrollment processes at U.S. colleges and universities," EducationUSA Advising Manager Umair Khan said.

    EducationUSA assists students interested in applying to or learning about U.S. colleges and universities. USEFP is a binational commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States. For more information, please visit www.usefp.org.

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    Young Pakistani Professionals Head to the United States to Study at Community Colleges

     

     

    Islamabad, May 24, 2017 - Thirty young Pakistani professionals attended a pre-departure orientation today in preparation for a year of study at U.S. community colleges through the U.S. government-funded Community College Initiative Program (CCIP).

    "Through CCIP, young professionals have the opportunity to develop leadership skills, technical proficiency in their field of study, and English-language proficiency," said U.S. Embassy Cultural Affairs Officer Dr. Daniel S. Mattern. "Pakistani participants also share information about their home country and culture with their American classmates and teachers throughout the program."

    CCIP, which is managed by the U.S. Educational Foundation in Pakistan, allows participants to earn professional certificates in Business Administration, Agriculture, Media, Applied Engineering, Public Safety, Tourism and Hospitality Management, or Early Childhood Education. The 30 participants, who include 13 women, come from all regions of Pakistan including Balochistan, Islamabad, AJK, Gilgit/Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, and Sindh.

    "CCIP program participants return home with new skills and confidence needed to make important contributions to the development of Pakistan. USEFP is proud to have role in making this possible," said USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar.

    More than 400 Pakistanis have participated in CCIP to date, and approximately 1,000 Pakistanis travel to the United States each year on U.S. government-funded educational and professional exchanges.

    More information on USEFP programs and services can be found at www.usefp.org.

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    U.S. Educational Foundation in Pakistan Announces 2018 Fulbright Student (Master's and PhD) and Fulbright-HEC PhD Program

    Islamabad, March 6, 2017 - The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) invites Pakistani students to apply for the prestigious 2018 Fulbright Student (Master's and PhD) and Fulbright-Higher Education Commission(HEC)PhD Program, which fully funds Master's or PhD study at top universities in the United States. The application form is available online at www.usefp.org, and the application deadline is May 17, 2017.

    "The Fulbright Program offers Pakistani students the opportunity to obtain a high-quality, graduate-level education while also building mutual understanding between the United States and Pakistan," said U.S. Embassy Cultural Affairs Officer Dr. Daniel Mattern. "The U.S. government is pleased to support the education of bright, young Pakistanis who want to make a positive difference in their communities after completing their studies."

    Women, people with disabilities, and students from FATA, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, AJK, Gilgit/Baltistan, Balochistan, Northern Sindh, and Southern Punjab are highly encouraged to apply. All disciplines are eligible except clinical medicine. Applicants studying energy, water, health, education, and agricultural disciplines are strongly encouraged to apply.

    "The Fulbright Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for Pakistanis aspiring to higher education in the United States," said USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar. "The program is merit-based, but merit is measured in terms of potential rather than just grades or test scores. We therefore encourage applications from anyone who's completed a Bachelor's degree and has dreams of using a higher degree to contribute to Pakistan's development."

    Since 2005, 1,880 Pakistanis have received Fulbright awards for graduate degrees. In fall 2017, approximately 190 Pakistani students - more than half of whom are women - will depart for the United States to participate in this program. The Fulbright Program in Pakistan is the largest in the world in terms of the U.S. Government's financial contribution and covers travel, living stipends, health insurance, and tuition for the entire period of study.

    USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States, is one of 49 Fulbright Commissions throughout the world. Since its inception, nearly 5,000 Pakistanis and more than 900 Americans have participated in USEFP-managed exchange programs. Its mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the United States through educational and cultural exchange programs. In addition to the Fulbright program, USEFP manages a number of scholarship programs for undergraduates, teachers, journalists, and other professionals.

    The Fulbright-HEC PhD program is made possible through financial support from the Higher Education Commission. Demonstrating their commitment to higher education and the U.S.-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor, the Government of Pakistan has agreed to provide more than 5 crore rupees ($5 million USD) each year for five years, which will support up to 125 PhD students.

2016

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    Representatives of 23 U.S. Universities Visit Pakistan to Meet with Prospective Students

     

     

    Islamabad - February 14: Representatives from 23 U.S. universities traveled to Pakistan this week on the 10th biannual South Asia Spring Tour organized by EducationUSA at the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP). During the tour to Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, they participated in college fairs, visited schools and universities, and met with parents and students to answer questions about admissions, financial aid, and academic programs in the United States.

    "I'm pleased that Pakistani students had the opportunity this week to learn first-hand about so many highly regarded and diverse U.S. universities," said U.S. Embassy Cultural Affairs Officer Dr. Daniel S. Mattern. "I hope to see many students take advantage of the opportunity to obtain a first-rate education in the United States while sharing their rich cultural heritage with American classmates."

    The visiting delegation included representatives from Ohio Wesleyan University, DePaul University, Colorado State University, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott Campus, Arkansas Tech University, Berkeley College, Central Washington University, Northern Arizona University, Furman University, Hiram College, Luther College, Minerva School at KGI, Northern Kentucky University, Old Dominion University, St. Cloud University, Savannah College of Art and Design, Siena College, State University of New York (SUNY) Buffalo, SUNY Plattsburgh, Troy University, University of Bridgeport, Valparaiso University, and Wichita State University. Of the 23 U.S. universities, seven were participating in the South Asia Tour for the first time.

    "Pakistani students' interest in opting for a U.S. degree has increased in recent years and the credit goes to both the parents and educational institutions that encourage students to study in the United States," said USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar.

    EducationUSA at USEFP offers free advice and assistance to students interested in applying to or learning about U.S. colleges and universities. USEFP is a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States. It is one of 49 Fulbright Commissions located throughout the world. For more information, please visit www.usefp.org.

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    Pakistani Undergraduate Students Prepare for a Semester in the United States

    Islamabad, July 19, 2016 - Over 100 Pakistani undergraduate students attended a pre-departure orientation in Islamabad today in preparation for their upcoming semester of study in the United States through the U.S. government-funded Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD). Since its launch in 2010, more than 1,000 Pakistani students have participated in the program.

    U.S. Embassy Assistant Cultural Affairs Officer Bettina Gorczynski congratulated the students on being selected for the program, which is funded by the U.S. Department of State and managed by the U.S. Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP). "The U.S. government is committed to Pakistan's youth and Pakistan's future development," Gorczynski said. "That's why we send hundreds of young Pakistanis to the United States every year to study and gain experience at American institutions of higher education."

     

     

    Pakistani Global UGRAD participants hail from all four provinces as well as Gilgit-Baltistan, the Federally Administered Tribal Areas, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Islamabad Capital Territory. They represent a broad range of academic fields including the humanities, basic sciences, engineering, and business administration. "We are especially pleased that young women are represented in the program in record numbers this year," USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar said. "Women make up sixty-seven percent of this cohort. We congratulate them and their families for encouraging them to take part in this wonderful study opportunity."

    USEFP is a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States. Its mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the United States through educational and cultural exchange programs. For more information, please visit www.usefp.org.

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    Pakistani School Counselors Learn about U.S. University Admissions Through Professional Development Tour

    Islamabad - June 14: Seventeen Pakistani secondary school counselors recently completed a two-week professional development tour in California and Arizona organized by EducationUSA at the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP). Participants gathered information to effectively advise Pakistani students about higher education in the United States through meetings with U.S. university admissions officials and campus visits.

    "We are pleased to be able to provide school counselors with the skills and knowledge required to advise Pakistani students about college admissions, and to give them a chance to experience U.S. college and university campuses firsthand," USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar said.

     

     

    The participants, who hailed from five Pakistani cities, visited a wide range of academic institutions in California and Arizona. Through workshops and networking opportunities, the counselors learned more about various elements of the U.S. university admissions process such as letters of recommendation and financial aid.

    "We hope that these Pakistani counselors will use the knowledge gained during the tour to encourage and help students with the admissions and enrollment processes at U.S. colleges and universities," EducationUSA Advising Manager Umair Khan said.

    EducationUSA assists students interested in applying to or learning about U.S. colleges and universities. USEFP is a binational commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States. For more information, please visit www.usefp.org.

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    8.5% Rise in Number of Pakistani Students Studying in the United States

    Islamabad, June 29, 2016: 70 students who will study at American colleges and universities starting this fall attended a pre-departure orientation in Islamabad hosted by EducationUSA at the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP). Similar orientation sessions were held in Lahore and Karachi for a total of 188 students. The students will be enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs at colleges and universities throughout the United States. The number of Pakistanis studying in the United States for the 2014-2015 academic year rose to 5,354, an increase of 8.5 percent over the previous year, according to the annual Open Doors Report.

    "The students who participated in today's pre-departure orientation will join a growing cadre of Pakistanis who are pursuing higher education in the United States," said Dr. Daniel S. Mattern, the Cultural Attaché at the American Embassy. "As student ambassadors to the United States, they will share Pakistani culture and values while receiving some of the best education in the world. The increasing number of Pakistanis who choose to study in America is already significant, and we hope this upward trend continues."

     

     

    Rita Akhtar, USEFP Executive Director, spoke about U.S. university classrooms as a reflection of the country's diversity. "USEFP aims to strengthen the relationship between U.S. universities and Pakistani students and we are pleased to be able to help talented students like you achieve admission to U.S. colleges and universities." In addition to providing free educational advising services, USEFP manages a number of scholarship and professional development exchange programs, including the prestigious Fulbright Program.

    EducationUSA Pakistan's Advising Manager, Umair Khan, congratulated the students and offered them tips. "Living in a foreign country is challenging and requires courage and a positive attitude. A majority of teachers in the American classrooms focus more on class participation, which may count towards final grades," said Mr. Khan.

    Students currently studying in the United States and some of their parents were also present to share their experiences. Students interested in U.S higher education should contact advising@usefp.org. To learn more about our scholarship programs and other services, please visit www.usefp.org

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    American Ambassador David Hale Congratulates Pakistani Fulbright Recipients Headed to the United States

    Islamabad, May 20, 2016 - American Ambassador David Hale congratulated 167 Pakistani Fulbright Student Program recipients at a pre-departure orientation organized by the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP). The 2016 Fulbright cohort hails from 38 universities across Pakistan, with women representing 55 percent of the group. The participants will be attending 82 different universities in a wide variety of academic disciplines, including engineering, energy management, and social sciences.

    "I have been impressed by the diversity I've seen in our Pakistani Fulbrighters," Ambassador Hale said. "You truly represent the breadth of Pakistani society. You are a credit to your nation, and are among the best and brightest in the world."

     

     

    The Fulbright program in Pakistan is the largest and one of the most distinguished in the world, and it is managed through USEFP, which is now celebrating its 66th year of operation in the country. Since 2005, 1,695 Pakistanis have received Fulbright awards for graduate degrees to study, teach, conduct research, exchange ideas, and contribute to finding solutions to shared international concerns. The awards cover travel, living stipends, health insurance, and tuition for the entire period of study.

    The Fulbright Program is the flagship academic exchange program of the U.S. government. Since 1946, the Fulbright Program has provided more than 360,000 participants from over 180 countries the opportunity to conduct research, implement skills and ideas, teach, and contribute to society. USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States, is one of 49 Fulbright Commissions throughout the world. Since its inception, nearly 5,000 Pakistanis and more than 900 Americans have participated in USEFP-managed exchange programs. Its mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the United States through educational and cultural exchange programs. In addition to the Fulbright program, USEFP manages a number of scholarship programs for undergraduates, teachers, journalists, and other professionals.

    To learn more about the Fulbright, and about U.S. education initiatives in Pakistan, visit www.usefp.org.

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    Young Pakistani Professionals Head to the United States to Study at Community Colleges

    Islamabad, May 24, 2016 - Forty-three young professionals attended their pre-departure orientation for a year of study at U.S. community colleges at Serena Hotel. This is the tenth group of young Pakistanis to study in the United States under the U.S. government-funded Community College Initiative Program (CCIP). The program is managed by the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP). So far, 392 Pakistanis have participated in the CCIP and have had the opportunity to show everyday Americans the true face of the country.

    "The CCIP provides a unique opportunity for Pakistani students to live in the U.S. and develop leadership and professional skills which will benefit them throughout their lives," said Rita Akhtar, Executive Director, USEFP. "The certifications they will earn will open many new possibilities for them both professionally and academically. These students represent the future of Pakistan, and we are excited to help them meet their goals."

     

     

    This year, of the 43 grantees, 23 are women. The participants come from all regions of Pakistan including Balochistan, Islamabad, FATA, Gilgit/Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, and Sindh.

    The CCIP is a one-year, non-degree scholarship program that provides opportunities for young Pakistani professionals to develop leadership, professional skills and English language proficiency while studying at a community college in the United States. The program develops workforce-ready individuals to be global citizens. It equips them with technical proficiency in their field of study, employability skills, and leadership expertise to advance their country's development and promote mutual understanding between cultures.

    The Pakistani CCIP students will gain practical experience in academic coursework, professional development, community engagement, and exploration of U.S. culture and society. The 10-month academic CCIP is an opportunity to earn professional certificates in Business Administration, Agriculture, Media, Applied Engineering, Tourism and Hospitality Management, or Early Childhood Education. This multifaceted experience will provide these students with 21st century skills, which they will bring back to Pakistan ready to engage with their communities.

    Approximately 4,000 Pakistanis are currently enrolled in U.S. government-funded English language programs in Pakistan. More information on USEFP programs and services can be found at www.usefp.org.

2015

  • Pakistan, US expanding cooperation in education sector

    CALIFORNIA: Pakistan and the United States are expanding cooperation in the education sector and reconstitution of working group on education under Pak-US Strategic Dialogue has provided an important mechanism for an extensive engagement in this field, Ambassador Jalil Abbas Jilani said.

    Speaking at a Fulbright seminar at the University of California, the Ambassador said the two countries intend to double joint fund for joint research grants under the US-Pakistan Science and Technology Cooperation Agreement.

    The Ambassador said that President Obama and Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif during the meeting in October expressed their mutual desire to expand bilateral ties in areas including education, science and technology and there have been several initiatives since to facilitate an already extensive US-Pakistan cooperation.

    "The reinstitution of the Education, Science, and Technology Working Group, under the aegis of Pak-US Strategic Dialogue in June 2015 has provided an important mechanism that would facilitate the already extensive US-Pakistan cooperation," he added.

    Pakistan and the United States in February this year signed an MOU in which Pakistan will fund up to 125 additional Pakistani PhD scholars from Pakistan to study in the United States through the Fulbright program over five years.

    "We intends to train 10,000 PhDs by 2025 at US universities," the ambassador said, adding that 23 existing partnerships between US and Pakistani universities were making critical contributions to cultural and intellectual exchange.

    The ambassador said that the Fulbright program was promoting mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the people of United States through educational and cultural exchange.

    "The fact that Pakistan has the largest Fulbright Foreign Student Program in the world signifies the importance both countries attach to higher education in Pakistan. It demonstrates the long-term commitment both countries to nurture and reinforce their ongoing partnership," he added.

    The Let Girls Learn (LGL) is a new initiative, launched by First Lady Michelle Obama and Mrs. Maryam Safdar in October 2015 during the visit of the Prime Minister to Washington. The United States has committed an initial funding of $ 70 million to LGL programs.

    Ambassador Jilani said that Pakistan's current government believes that national development is the natural sequel to a literate society. He said the Government being fully cognizant of these facts is working on a two-pronged strategy: promotion of education at all levels and socio-economic development.

    "The Government is laying special emphasis on increasing literacy rate and providing more employment opportunities to the youth. The demographic dividend, that our youth presents, is poised to let us take off and take off well," he added.

    Pakistan Vision 2025 aims at substantial expansion in levels of education as well as improvements in the quality of education. It commits to increase public expenditure on education to reach 4% of GDP from current 2 % by 2018, the ambassador said.

    The ambassador said the private sector, though being a late entrant in particularly tertiary education, is sharing the responsibility of the Government. This synergy has increased university enrollment from 100,000 to around 1200,000 over last two decades.

    Copyright APP (Associated Press of Pakistan), 2016

  • PRESS RELEASE-

    Contact: Shirin Pasha Email: shirin@usefp.org Telephone: 051-8431308 03008529983

    The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan

    Young Pakistani Professionals Head to the United States to Study at Community Colleges

    Islamabad, June 5, 2015- Seventy-six young professionals attended their pre-departure orientation for a year of study at U.S. community colleges at the Serena Hotel. This is the ninth group of young Pakistanis to study in the United States under the U.S. government-funded Community College Initiative Program (CCIP). The program is managed by the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP). So far, 318 Pakistanis have participated in the CCI program and have had the opportunity to show everyday Americans the true face of Pakistan.

    Ms. Marianne Craven Managing Director of Academic Programs, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, congratulated the participants and said, "The Community College Initiative Program aims to foster Pakistan's future leadership in key fields and help Pakistan to be more competitive in the global economy. There are already a number of program alumni making a tangible difference in Pakistan."

    This year, of the 76 grantees, thirty-one percent are women. The participants come from all regions of Pakistan including Balochistan; Capital Territory; FATA; Gilgit/Baltistan; Khyber Pakhtunkhwa; Punjab and Sindh.

    The Community College Initiative Program is a one-year, non-degree scholarship program that provides opportunities for young Pakistani professionals to develop leadership, professional skills and English language proficiency while studying at a community college in the United States. The program develops workforce-ready individuals to be global citizens. It equips them with technical proficiency in their field of study, employability skills, and leadership expertise to advance their country's development and promote mutual understanding between cultures.

    The Pakistani CCI students will gain practical experience in academic coursework, professional development, community engagement, and exploration of U.S. culture and society. The 10-month CCIP academic program is an opportunity to earn professional certificates in Business Administration, Agriculture, Media, Applied Engineering, Tourism and Hospitality Management, or Early Childhood Education. This multifaceted experience will provide these students with 21st century skills, which they will bring back to Pakistan ready to engage with their communities.

    The U.S. Embassy in Islamabad and its constituent posts in Karachi, Lahore, and Peshawar administer the largest investment of U.S. funds in educational and cultural programs in the world. Around 9,000 Pakistanis have participated in fully-funded academic or professional development programs in the United States. Approximately 4,000 Pakistanis are enrolled in U.S. government-funded English language programs in Pakistan currently. More information on USEFP programs and services can be found at www.usefp.org.

  • PRESS RELEASE -

    Contact: Shirin Pasha Email: shirin@usefp.org Telephone: 051-8431308 03008529983

    The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan

    Deputy Chief of Mission Congratulates Pakistani Fulbright Recipients Headed to the United States

    Islamabad, June 12, 2015 - Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) to the U.S. Thomas Williams congratulated 147 Pakistani Fulbright Student Program recipients at a pre-departure orientation organized by the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP). The 2015 Fulbright cohort hails from 33 universities across Pakistan, with women representing 46 percent of the group. For their studies in the United States, the Fulbright participants will be attending 70 different universities in a wide variety of academic disciplines, including engineering, energy management, and social sciences.

    DCM Williams highlighted the important role of academic exchange programs in strengthening people-to-people ties between the United States and Pakistan. "Pakistan shines brightest in the constellation of Fulbright programs because it represents the largest investment of U.S. government funds of its kind anywhere in the world," he said. "Each one of you will become an ambassador of the rich culture and society that is Pakistan. You will be able to share your own unique experience and insights to make a difference in the lives of the people you meet and the institutions of which you are a part, both in the United States and upon your return to Pakistan."

    The Fulbright program in Pakistan is the largest and one of the most distinguished in the world, and it is managed through USEFP, which is now celebrating its 65th year of operation in the country. Since 2005, 1,537 Pakistanis have received Fulbright awards for graduate degrees to study, teach, conduct research, exchange ideas, and contribute to finding solutions to shared international concerns. The awards cover travel, living stipends, health insurance, and tuition for the entire period of study.

    The Fulbright Program is the flagship academic exchange program of the U.S. government. Since 1946, the Fulbright Program has provided more than 360,000 participants from over 180 countries the opportunity to conduct research, implement skills and ideas, teach, and contribute to society. USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States, is one of 51 Fulbright Commissions throughout the world. Since its inception, nearly 5,000 Pakistanis and more than 900 Americans have participated in USEFP-administered exchange programs. Its mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the United States through educational and cultural exchange programs. In addition to the Fulbright program, USEFP administers a number of scholarship programs for undergraduates, teachers, journalists, and other professionals.

    To learn more about the Fulbright, and about U.S. education initiatives in Pakistan, visit www.usefp.org.

  • Islamabad (June 6, 2015): A senior U.S. Official has said that Pakistani students must have good knowledge of their own culture to represent positive picture of Pakistan while studying in the United States, disclosing that so far, 318 Pakistani students have participated in the U.S. government-funded Community College Initiative Program (CCIP).

    The one-year, non-degree scholarship program, managed by the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) aims to foster Pakistan's future leadership in the key areas of Business Administration. Agriculture, Media, Applied Engineering, Tourism and Hospitality Management, Public Safety, and Early Childhood Education, said Ms. Marianne Craven, Managing Director of Academic Programs, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.

    She was addressing as Chief Guest during the pre-departure orientation ceremony, here at the Serena Hotel Islamabad, in honor of Pakistani young professionals who were selected to develop leadership, professional skills and English language proficiency while studying at a community college in the United States. This year, of the 76 grantees, thirty-one percent are women. The participants come from all regions of Pakistan including Balochistan; Capital Territory; FATA; Gilgit/Baltistan; Khyber Pakhtunkhwa; Punjab and Sindh.

    Marianne Craven, during her speech, encouraged the Pakistani CCIP students to avail all opportunities to gain practical experience in academic coursework, professional development, community engagement, and exploration of U.S. culture and society, hoping that this multifaceted experience would empower the students with 21st century skills, which would have positive impacts on their personal lives and society as a whole when they back to Pakistan ready to engage with their communities. She concluded.

    Earlier, Rita Akhtar, Executive Director, USEFP, briefed that around 9,000 Pakistanis have participated in fully-funded academic or professional development programs in the United States. Approximately 4,000 Pakistanis are enrolled in U.S. government-funded English language programs here in Pakistan currently, she further said.

    On the occasion, the other local speakers also shared their past experiences of studying in the U.S. Educational Institutes, emphasizing the need to promote people-to-people contacts while staying in the land of opportunities.

    The U.S. Embassy in Islamabad and its constituent posts in Karachi, Lahore, and Peshawar administer the largest investment of U.S. funds in educational and cultural programs in the world. The ceremony was attended by the participants coming from all regions of country, media representatives, and officials from the U.S. Embassy and the USEFP.

2014

  • July 11, 2014-Islamabad: The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) hosted a Pre-departure orientation for 80 students who will be travelling this Fall to realize their dreams of a higher education in the U.S. The event was held at the Marriott Hotel.

    USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar congratulated the students and said, "USEFP is pleased to be able to help talented Pakistani students like you, achieve admission to U.S colleges and universities. U.S. colleges and universities welcome Pakistani students as they add to the already rich diversity in the classroom."

    The event was a networking platform aimed to prepare the students for a potentially life-changing experience. EducationUSA Advising Manager Umair Khan, offered some invaluable tips to the students. He explained that professor-student relations were less formal in the United States than in Pakistani universities. "Despite the casual atmosphere, you will be required to do class readings ahead of time, attend classes on regular basis and submit assignments on time. A majority of teachers in the American classrooms are big on class participation that may be counted towards final grades," said Khan.

    The departing students were given a presentation to prepare them for their new life in the U.S - both inside and outside the classroom. Umair Khan counseled the students, "At first the transition can be difficult because the U.S system of education is different. However, the United States is the world's leading destination for international students because there is something here for everyone. Once Pakistani students adjust they enjoy the experience and thrive in their colleges and universities. Many Pakistanis make a name for themselves through their academic achievements or participation in extracurricular and cultural activities."

    The presentations were followed by a Q&A session after which students mingled with USEFP advisers, U.S Embassy officials and alumni over Iftar. Since its inception, USEFP has helped thousands of Pakistani students achieve their dreams of U.S higher education through its scholarship programs and free advising services. Students interested in U.S higher education should contact advising@usefp.org. To learn more about our scholarship programs and other services please visit www.usefp.org or www.facebook.com/USEFP.

  • February 7, 2014 -LAHORE (PAKISTAN): The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) inaugurated the opening of the new Fulbright Center, in Lahore. The Center, located on the Forman Christian College University campus, is a state-of-the-art facility that provides services to help Pakistani students learn more about opportunities available to Pakistani students for higher education in the United States. The Center houses an EducationUSA advising center and a Prometric test center. EducationUSA Advising is part of a global network of 450 advising centers in more than 170 countries across the world. USEFP advisers, most of whom have U.S. degrees, are available to provide current, unbiased and accurate information to students hoping to study in the U.S. These advising services are provided free of cost. Prometric is the leading global provider of testing services and solutions for corporate, academic, government, financial and professional clients. The standardized tests (GRE, TOEFL, SAT) required for admission to U.S. universities are administered by the center, as well as professional exams and certifications.

    The Center is named after the late Senator J. William Fulbright, founder of the U.S. Department of State's flagship scholarship program - the Fulbright Program. The mission of the program is to promote mutual understanding between the people of other countries and the people of the United States through educational and cultural exchange. Operating in 150 countries, the Fulbright Program in Pakistan is the largest in the world with more than 150 students selected to begin fully-funded Masters or Doctoral degree programs in the U.S. in 2014. Another 406 are already studying in the U.S. on Fulbright funding. Since 2005 ___ students have been awarded these degree scholarships. The competition for the 2015 Fulbright Awards will be announced in Islamabad on February 11.

    In addition to the Fulbright Program, USEFP administers a number of other scholarship programs, including the Global UGrad Program sending 240 undergraduates in 2014 alone to study in the U.S. for a semester.

    Speaking on the occasion U.S Consul General, Lahore, Nina Fite said, "_____________________________". USEFP Executive Director, Rita Akhtar, asked the audience of Pakistani educators, including Vice-Chancellors, School Principals, Deans, teachers, and counselors to encourage their students to use new center. She said, "Opportunities for Pakistani students to study in the United States have never been greater. USEFP is here to help students learn more about these opportunities as well as to guide them in every step of the process toward reaching their goals of studying in U.S. universities."

    USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States, is one of 50 'Fulbright Commissions' located throughout the world. Since its inception more than 62 years ago, nearly 5,000 Pakistanis and more than 800 Americans have participated in USEFP administered exchange programs. The Foundation supervises a variety of programs that send Pakistani students, scholars, and professionals to American campuses while bringing American scholars to universities in Pakistan. The goal of all USEFP programs is to help Pakistanis learn more about the U.S. and to help Americans learn more about Pakistan and its people.

    In addition to the new Fulbright Center in Lahore, USEFP has its head office in Islamabad, and a regional office in Karachi. USEFP also runs testing centers in Islamabad and Karachi administering the TOEFL, SAT, GRE and other standardized examinations. For more information on USEFP and its services visit www.usefp.org or www.facebook.com/USEFP.

  • Islamabad, May 31, 2014- Seventy-six young professionals gathered today at the Serena Hotel for their pre-departure orientation for a year of study at U.S. community colleges. This is the eighth group of Pakistani students to study in the United States under U.S. government-funded Community College Initiative Program (CCIP). The program is administered by the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP).

    "Going to the United States on this program will be a life-changing opportunity," said Mr. Robert Raines, Country Cultural Affairs Officer of the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad. "After studying in U.S. colleges and completing internships in their fields, Community College Initiative students come back to Pakistan with learning new skills and knowledge to help their communities. So far, 248 Pakistanis have participated in the CCIP and had the opportunity to show everyday Americans the true face of Pakistan, and learn about Americans beyond the distorted stereotypes in the media."

    The Community College Initiative Program is a one-year, non-degree scholarship program that provides opportunities for Pakistani young professionals to develop leadership, professional skills and English language proficiency, while studying at a community college in the United States. Participants study agriculture, applied engineering, business management and administration, media, early childhood education, or tourism and hospitality management.

    The U.S. Embassy in Pakistan administers the largest educational and cultural programs of any U.S. Embassy in the world. Around 9,000 Pakistanis have participated in fully-funded academic or professional development programs in the United States. Five thousand Pakistani youth currently are enrolled in U.S. government-funded English language programs in Pakistan These programs manifest the sincere interest of the United States to build partnership with and a bright future for the people of Pakistan.

    More information about U.S.-funded exchange programs can be accessed via the U.S. Embassy Web site at http://islamabad.usembassy.gov/

  • Feb 11, 2014, Islamabad -- The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) announced that the 2015 competition for Fulbright Master's and PhD scholarships is now open. The U.S. Government's flagship scholarship program enables deserving Pakistanis to complete Master's or PhD degrees, in a field of their choice, in universities across the United States. These scholarships are merit-based and cover tuition, textbooks, airfare, stipend, computer, settling-in allowance and health insurance. Of the 150 countries in which the Fulbright program operates, the U.S.-Pakistan Fulbright program is the largest, with 161 students receiving awards for fully-funded degrees in 2014. A similar number is expected to be selected in 2015. The application deadline for the 2015 competition is May 14, 2014.

    Kicking off the 2015 Fulbright season, Deputy Cultural Affairs Officer Judith Ravin stated, "The U.S. invests more in Fulbright Pakistan than anywhere else in the world. For 64 years, the Fulbright scholarship program between the United States and Pakistan has fulfilled the dream of its founder: turning nations into people through educational exchange." USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar encouraged students from all over Pakistan to take advantage of the 2015 Fulbright Program. "We hope to receive applications from graduates of every accredited university in Pakistan," she said.

    In addition to the 161 students who depart for the United States in the fall of 2014, 406 students from Pakistan currently study in the United States on Fulbright awards. The Fulbright Scholarship Program is an example of the long-term commitment by the U.S. government to the education of Pakistanis and to increasing mutual understanding between both countries. Each year the U.S. government sends more than 700 students to academic exchange programs and another 500 professionals to shorter, work-related programs in the United States. Since the inception of USEFP more than 62 years ago, over 5,000 Pakistanis have gone on USEFP-administered exchange programs to the United States. The Fulbright Program is among the 30-plus U.S.-government funded educational, professional, and cultural exchange programs that build people-to-people ties among Americans and Pakistanis.

    The 2015 Fulbright competition is open to people from all provinces and areas of Pakistan. Women, minorities, and people with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. All disciplines are eligible, with the exception of the field of clinical medicine. Energy, water, and agriculture are priority disciplines, though the opportunity is open to other fields. More information about this program, as well as standardized testing and free educational advising services can be found on the USEFP website at www.usefp.org.

    The U.S. Fulbright program in Pakistan is among the oldest worldwide. The governments of Pakistan and the United States signed an agreement to initiate the program on September 23, 1950. Within two years of its signing, the first Pakistanis and Americans traveled in both directions to begin their exchanges. It was one of the very first agreements of its kind; the Fulbright Program now operates in 150 countries around the world.

  • 11 July 2014, Islamabad - The Fulbright & Humphrey Alumni Association hosted the launch of Taimoor Shahid's book, Madness of Waiting, a co-translation in English of Junoon-e-Intezaar, at the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) in Islamabad. Taimoor Shahid successfully completed a Master's degree from Columbia University in South Asian Studies on a Fulbright scholarship. He was among the approximately 160 students USEFP sends annually on a fully-funded Fulbright grant. As an alumnus, he joins an elite group of students to study languages and literature under the auspices of the program

    This is Shahid's second translation, his previous work The Dangerous Man, based on two early 20th century detective novels by Ibn-e-Safi, was published by Random House. Shahid collaborates with author Krupa Shandilya to bring Madness of Waiting to life for audiences. He also pens the introduction to the book which provide context on the Urdu literary culture of the time and serves as an academic balance to the accompanying prose.

    Published by Zubaan Books in India, the co-translation has largely received positive reviews from critics and audiences alike. The book is a semi-fictional tale of author Hadi Ruswa who penned the renowned Urdu literary classic, Umrao Jan Ada in 1899. While Umrao Jan Ada is a purported fictionalized account of a Lucknow courtesan and poetess of the same name, Madness of Waiting is told from the point-of-view of Umrao Jan who serves as both narrator and literary device in this novella. The story, combines letters and poetry to draw readers into Mirza Ruswa's passion-fueled and tragic life-story in undivided India.

    Speaking at the event, USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar underscored the importance of supporting students wishing to raise awareness and understanding of the Urdu language and literature within Pakistan's educational institutions. "Taimoor's success as an academic and translator exemplifies the need to raise the profile of Pakistan's national language and the need for greater academic discourse on the literary history of South Asia. His focus on the philosophy and history and literature of South Asia makes him the only recent Fulbright candidate to have studied the Urdu language as part of a degree program at a US university."

    Fulbright is the flagship scholarship program of the US Department of State. Administered by the US Educational Foundation, the Program in Pakistan is the world's largest and now celebrating its 63rd year of operation in the country. Since 2005, approximately 1,288 Pakistanis have received Fulbright Awards for graduate degrees. For both the Masters and PhD programs, all academic disciplines are eligible (except clinical medicine).

    USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States, is one of 51 Fulbright Commissions throughout the world. Its mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the United States through educational and cultural exchange programs. In addition to the Fulbright program, USEFP administers a number of scholarship programs for undergraduates, teachers, journalists, and other professionals.

  • October, 2014: Seven universities from the United States participated in college fairs and school visits in Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad to promote study in the United States options for Pakistani students. The tour, organized by United States Educational Foundation (USEFP) and EducationUSA Advising, was designed as a cultural experience as well as a recruitment opportunity for accredited U.S colleges and universities. This is the fifth USEFP-led South Asia Tour visit to Pakistan in four years. The tour is an opportunity for the general public as well as Pakistan's brightest and best high school students to obtain first-hand information about academic and campus life at accredited U.S. colleges and universities.

    This year's recruiting delegation included representatives from Valparaiso University, University of Northern Iowa, Savannah College of Art & Design, Hiram College, New York University-Polytechnic School of Engineering, Saint Peter's University, and Fairfield University. In addition to meeting prospective students, the university representatives interacted with many institutional counterparts in each city, including principals, counselors, faculty, and other administrative staff.

    EducationUSA Advising Manager Umair Khan welcomed the tour participants, many of whom have visited Pakistan on previous tours, and appreciated the caliber and talent of Pakistani students. According to Khan, "EducationUSA aims to connect students in Pakistan with U.S. universities. The South Asia Tour is a great networking platform to develop those ties. Pakistani students, along with their parents, meticulously plan their higher education goals and are committed to earning a degree from the best possible educational institution. U.S. colleges and universities can meet those expectations." He also discussed how today's youth realize that earning a degree from a reputable college or university is the first rung on the ladder to success.

    To learn more about upcoming USEFP events register with EducationUSA Pakistan on http://www.usefp.org/Advising/Signup/Student.cfm?Tab=Advising. The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) is a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States. It is one of 51 "Fulbright Commissions" located throughout the world. For more information visit: www.facebook.com/USEFP, www.usefp.org

  • Islamabad, 21 September, 2014: The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) and EducationUSA organized a "Back to School" fair in Islamabad on Sunday to provide Pakistani students an opportunity to meet alumni from over 30 U.S. colleges and universities. U.S. Embassy staff members representing their U.S. colleges and universities answered students' questions about studying in the United States, including the application process, campus life in America, and how to get apply for a student visa. USEFP advisers were on hand to answer questions and provide advice to prospective students and parents. The educational fair was held in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy.

    U.S. Embassy country Cultural Attaché Judith Ravin, who attended the event, commented: "Worldwide, a U.S. education stands for academic excellence. With Pakistani students in the United States we also enhance the diversity of our campuses."

    USEFP's educational advisers have U.S. degrees as well as training in all aspects of the application process. In addressing the media, USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar said: "The U.S. provides excellent academic opportunities for Pakistani students. With nearly 4,000 higher education institutions, there really is a program for everyone. For some students, financial aid and scholarship options are also available to make a U.S. education especially affordable."

    Since most schools open this time of year, the "Back to School" fair was held to present information valuable to students starting the application process for U.S admissions. In addition to giving an opportunity to meet alumni representatives and educational advisers, the fair enabled students and parents to learn more about application deadlines, admission requirements, and financial aid options. A similar fair, attracting over 1,000 visitors, was held in Karachi on September 14. On September 23, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm (PST) Lahore will hold a virtual Back to School Fair.

    USEFP is a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States. It is one of 51 Fulbright Commissions located throughout the world. Fulbright is the flagship educational exchange program of the United States Department of State whose mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the United States through educational and cultural exchange. Since its inception more than 62 years ago, about 5,000 Pakistanis and more than 900 Americans have participated in USEFP administered exchange programs.

    In addition to the Fulbright program, USEFP offices in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi provide advice and assistance to students interested in studying in the United States. USEFP also runs testing centers in Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi administering the TOEFL, SAT, GRE, and other standardized examinations. Students can learn more by visiting www.usefp.org or www.facebook.com/USEFP.

  • Islamabad, August 7, 2014 - U.S. Ambassador to Pakistan Richard G. Olson congratulated 157 Pakistani graduate students who received awards for Master's or Doctoral studies at American universities on U.S.-funded Fulbright scholarships. The Fulbright Program is the flagship academic exchange program of the U.S.government. This year, 125Master's and 32 Ph.D. students have been selected for these prestigious awards. Fulbright grantees represent every province of Pakistan and study a variety of academic disciplines, including engineering, energy management, business, and social sciences. After completing their studies in the United States, the students will return to Pakistan and play a vital role in Pakistan's future.

    Ambassador Olson highlighted the important role of academic exchange programs in strengthening people-to-people ties between the United States and Pakistan. "I call on each one of you to continue to be outstanding representatives of Pakistan, and spend your time working to make a difference in the lives of the people you encounter, and the institutions you are a part of, both in the United States and upon your return to Pakistan," he said. "You represent all of Pakistan's provinces; you come from big cities and small villages, from the public school system and private colleges. I am confident that you will follow in that great tradition of the Fulbright program," he added.

    The Fulbright program in Pakistan is the largest, and one of the most distinguished, in the world. The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP), now celebrating its 64thyear of operation in the country, administers the program. Since 2005, 1,400 Pakistanis have received Fulbright Awards for graduate degrees, of which 41 percent have been women. The awards cover travel, living stipends, health insurance, and tuition for the entire period of study. "Opportunities for Pakistani students to study in the United States have never been greater," said Ms. Rita Akhtar, Executive Director of USEFP. She congratulated the departing students, saying, "this was a very tough but transparent competition. We know you will represent Pakistan very well in the United States and return to make a real difference here."

    USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States, is one of 51 Fulbright Commissions throughout the world. Its mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the United States through educational and cultural exchange programs. Since its inception, nearly 5,000 Pakistanis and more than 900 Americans have participated in USEFP-administered exchange programs. In addition to the Fulbright program, USEFP administers a number of scholarship programs for undergraduates, teachers, journalists, and other professionals.

    The Fulbright Program is one element of a comprehensive U.S. education assistance program for Pakistan that includes building or rehabilitating nearly 800 schools, which benefits more than 86,000 school children; creating accredited degree programs in education at 90 teacher colleges and universities; providing college scholarships for more than 10,000 low-income students; establishing Centers for Advanced Studies at three Pakistani universities; and launching eight university partnerships that connect American and Pakistani universities. To learn more about U.S. education initiatives in Pakistan, see: http://goo.gl/auHXF.

  • July 24, 2014 - The U.S. Embassy's Counselor for Public Affairs, Angela P. Aggeler, congratulated 120 Pakistani students traveling to the United States for undergraduate study as part of the U.S. government-funded Global Undergraduate (Global UGRAD) Program.

    "The United States has a long tradition of embracing international students and celebrating the diversity that they bring to our campuses and country. It is the vibrancy of our American campuses that attracts more foreign students than any other country in the world," said Ms. Aggeler.

    "We welcome more than 1,200 Pakistanis in the United States each year on our many exchange programs, which demonstrates the depth of our commitment to the future of Pakistan's young people."

    One hundred and twenty Pakistani students will soon depart for a semester of study at U.S. colleges and universities under the Global UGRAD fellowship program, an initiative of the U.S. Department of State. The U.S. government fully funds these fellowships for the entire period of study. The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) administers the program.

    "The really exciting thing about this group of undergraduates is that so many of these students come from remote or economically disadvantaged areas of Pakistan." said Rita Akhtar, Executive Director of USEFP at a pre-departure orientation to help students prepare to study in the United States.

    Ms. Akhtar noted that this year's group includes 52 students from Punjab, 28 from Sindh, 26 from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 14 from Gilgit-Baltistan, 6 from Balochistan, 5 from AJK, 6 from FATA, and 2 from Islamabad Capital Territory.

    Fifty- three percent of the students are women. Students will pursue degrees in a wide variety of disciplines, including humanities and social sciences, engineering, basic sciences, law, art and design, economics, and business administration. The students will be attending more than 50 different colleges and universities located throughout the United States.

    The Global UGRAD program was launched in the fall of 2010 when the first cohort of around 50 students departed for the United States. More than 600 students have participated in the program to date.

    USEFP is a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States. USEFP's mission is to promote mutual understanding between the American and Pakistani people through educational and cultural exchange. Since its inception 64 years ago, nearly 5,000 Pakistanis and more than 900 Americans have participated in USEFP-administered exchange programs.

  • Islamabad (Feb 28, 2014): Rita Akhtar, Executive Director of United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan, has said that the mission of the organization is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the people of the United States through educational and cultural exchange. She was speaking to the launching ceremony of "The Scatter Here is Too Great", a novel, written in the context of Karachi, by-Fulbright alumnus Bilal Tanweer. "I've conducted many Fulbright interviews over the years and not all are memorable. But I remember Bilal and even the grade I gave him-A+ because he had the nerve-or should I say the spine-to apply in creative writing." The Executive Director further expressed.

    Talking about his novel Bilal Tanweer said, "The Scatter Here is Too Great shows a love-hate relationship of the characters with Karachi. They accept Karachi with all its battle scars." For Tanweer, this city is still home, even though he has been living in the bubble of academic campuses for many years. "I am from Karachi. This book is an outcome of my engagement with the city. It speaks to me, resonates with me. The characters, their languages - all are from Karachi." In his words, Karachi is a hard city which has violence and fear but there is a flip side to it. "Because of the large number of migrants, it affords a certain freedom, a certain anonymity. Karachi is a city of contrasts."

    Bilal Tanweer is also translating Urdu novels by fiction writer Ibn-e-Safi, which are characterized by a blend of mystery, adventure, suspense, violence, romance and comedy, achieving massive popularity across a broad readership in South Asia. The participants agreed that the book comes at a time when anything with the tag of Pakistan and terrorism quickly catapults to global attention, yet the book is clearly honest and is not aimed at a particular readership.

  • Lahore, 9 May 2014 - The Pakistan Four premiered to resounding applause at the Fulbright Center in Lahore on Friday. The documentary film by Fulbright alumnus Shehzad Hameed is an inspirational account of four Pakistani-American women who challenged cultural expectations on their journeys to fulfill personal and professional aspirations.

    The Pakistan Four follows award-winning Manhattan chef and winner of the reality cooking show Chopped, Fatima Ali, weight lifter Kulsoom Abdullah who campaigned and won the right for Muslim women to wear covered sports attire at U.S. national weight lifting competitions, Hareem Ahmad, an MIT graduate who left a career in Wall Street to become an award-winning professional saber fighter, and Nadia Manzoor, a standup comedian and actor. The documentary was entirely shot and produced in the U.S. by Shehzad who at the time was on a Fulbright Masters Degree Scholarship to study News and Documentary Filmmaking at New York University (NYU) between 2012 -14.

    "I wanted to showcase these women because their stories are uplifting and powerful. People need to hear about the amazing things Pakistani women are doing. To be able to go behind the scenes and capture their day-to-day experiences was truly humbling," says Shehzad. "It was equally important to demonstrate how Pakistani women are changing the narrative when it comes to the types of careers they can chose and excel at," adds Hameed.

    Speaking to an audience comprised of filmmakers, Fulbright alumni, journalists, university professors, and students, USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar said, "USEFP is so proud to be able to send talented young people like Shehzad to great schools in the U.S. on the Fulbright Program. We expect our Fulbrighters to return to Pakistan and contribute to the nation's social and economic development. Shehzad is a great example of the value of the Fulbright Program. He just returned and is already making a contribution with this wonderful film highlighting the achievements of Pakistani women in the U.S."

    The Pakistan Four has received critical acclaim in the U.S. following its world premiere at New York University Film Festival in 2014. Exclusive screenings of the film also took place at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government and Georgia Institute of Technology. In addition to the premiere in Lahore, several more screenings are planned for cities across Pakistan. ###

    About Shehzad Hameed

    A broadcast journalist and documentary film maker by profession, Shehzad, 29, launched his career as a reporter / producer with Pakistan's first English language news channel, Dawn News TV in Karachi. Shehzad went on to graduate from New York University's Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute in 2013 with a concentration in News and Documentary Filmmaking. He is a recipient of the Fulbright scholarship - 2012 to 2014.

    For more information on upcoming screenings, visit: https://www.facebook.com/thepakistanfour

    About USEFP and Fulbright

    The Fulbright program in Pakistan is the largest and one of the oldest in the world. The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP), now celebrating its 63rd year of operation in the country, administers the program. Since 2005, 1,255 Pakistanis have received Fulbright Awards for graduate degrees, of which 40 percent have been women.

    USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States, is one of 50 Fulbright Commissions throughout the world. Its mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the United States through educational and cultural exchange programs. Since its inception more than 60 years ago, nearly 5,000 Pakistanis and more than 900 Americans have participated in USEFP-administered exchange programs. In addition to the Fulbright program, USEFP administers a number of scholarship programs for undergraduates, teachers, journalists, and other professionals.


2013

  • Islamabad (November 18-20, 2013): USEFP held a week-long series of activities across Pakistan to commemorate International Education Week, an opportunity to promote and celebrate the benefits of international education and cultural exchange that is celebrated in more than 100 countries. The event started as a joint initiative between the U.S. Department of State and the U.S Department of Education, is part of the effort to promote global learning programs and encourage future leaders to study, learn and exchange experiences in the United States. In the 2012-2013 academic year, Pakistani students studying in the United States increased by 3.7 percent to 4,772, making it the country sending the third largest number of students from the South Asian region.

    Among International Education Week activities were networking sessions for counselors and high achievers in Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi. School principals and administrators recognized a total of 150 O-level students from 18 schools in these cities. USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar noted in her remarks to Islamabad participants: "Pakistani students who study in the United States are well suited for the challenges and opportunities of the global economy. Studying abroad also strengthens ties and fosters friendship among students from different countries." The sessions provided a platform for counselors and school representatives to discuss university study abroad programs and to share best practices. Deputy Cultural Attaché, Judith Ravin, in promoting higher education opportunities in the United States, explained: "The United States celebrates the diversity that international students bring to our campuses. U.S. universities offer quality education and enhance career prospects. "

    This year, USEFP launched a Sports Day in Islamabad to promote good sportsmanship, leadership and team work. The event also highlighted the place of sports in U.S. education and sports-related scholarship opportunities. Nearly 200 students from ten schools competed in football, basketball, table tennis, and badminton. In Lahore, USEFP hosted a high school poster painting competition at Forman Christian College University on "The Importance of Education." _________ voiced her/his hope that the event would promote the importance of arts and humanities as well as co-curricular activities in secondary schools.

    USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States, is one of 51 'Fulbright Commissions' located throughout the world. Fulbright is the flagship educational exchange program of the United States Department of State. The mission of the program is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the people of the United States through educational and cultural exchange. Since its inception more than 62 years ago, nearly 4,000 Pakistanis and more than 800 Americans have participated in USEFP-administered exchange programs.

    In addition to the Fulbright program, USEFP administers a number of scholarship programs for undergraduates, teachers, journalists, and other professionals. USEFP offices in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi assist students interested in applying to study in the United States. USEFP also runs testing centers in Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi administering the TOEFL, SAT, GRE, and other standardized examinations. Students can learn more by visiting www.usefp.org or www.facebook.com/USEFP.

  • Islamabad (November 20, 2013): "The benefit of students being involved in extracurricular activities is that they learn about team work, time management and prioritizing things in their life which groom their personality to become a better human being." This was stated by Judith Ravin, Deputy Cultural Attaché of the US Embassy in Islamabad while addressing a ceremony organized by USEFP to celebrate International Education Week in Pakistan. She said that American educational campuses attract hundreds of international students across the globe while dversity in education fosters mutual respect and tolerance which are essentials for a better society.

    Rita Akhtar, Executive Director USEFP, in her remarkable note, briefed that USEFP held a week-long series of activities across Pakistan to commemorate International Education Week, an opportunity to promote and celebrate the benefits of international education and cultural exchange that is celebrated in more than 100 countries. She informed that in the 2012-2013 academic year, Pakistani students studying in the United States increased by 3.7 percent to 4,772, making it the country with the third largest population of students enrolled in the United States; added "USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States, is one of the most active 'Fulbright Commissions' located throughout the world." She was of the view that Pakistani students who study in the United States are well suited for the challenges and opportunities in all fields with focus on global economy. "Studying abroad also strengthens ties and fosters friendship among students from different countries." She further said.

    While talking about recently-held USEFP Sports Day in Islamabad, she said the sprit behind it is to promote good sportsmanship, leadership and team work as well as to highlight the place of sports in U.S. education and sports-related scholarship opportunities. She informed that nearly 200 students from ten schools competed in football, basketball, table tennis, and badminton. In Lahore, USEFP hosted a high school poster painting competition at Forman Christian College University on "The Importance of Education."

    The event started as a joint initiative between the U.S. Department of State and the U.S Department of Education, is part of the effort to promote global learning programs and encourage future leaders to study, learn and exchange experiences in the United States.

    Among International Education Week activities were networking sessions for counselors and high achievers in Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi. School principals and administrators recognized a total of 150 O-level students from 18 schools in these cities. The sessions provided a platform for counselors and school representatives to discuss university study abroad programs and to share best practices.




  • More than 600 alumni of U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs gathered in Islamabad to share their experiences and to commit to building trust and understanding between the United States and Pakistan. This third annual event of the Pakistan-U.S. Alumni Network (PUAN) Islamabad Chapter attracted politicians, parliamentarians, scholars, journalists, professionals, and students -all of whom are alumni of various exchange programs to the United States.

    "My American colleagues and I appreciate that the experiences you had in the United States -whether decades ago or just last year -are a common bond that has brought you together to do good work in Pakistan," said Thomas E. Williams, DeputyChief of Mission of the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, the event's keynote speaker.

    PUAN President Samina Imtiaz encouraged participants to volunteer for the network's activities to spread the knowledge they gained in the United States throughout Pakistan.The network also recognized several prominent alumni who have given back to their communities through the inaugural Distinguished Alumni and Emerging Leader awards.

    The U.S. government invests an estimated $40 million annually on exchange programs for Pakistani citizens. More than 1,200 Pakistanis participate in the various high school, undergraduate, graduate, and professional U.S.-sponsored exchange programs each year.

    PUAN is one of the largest U.S. alumni networks in the world. Its mission is to encourage people-to-people relationships between Pakistanis and Americans. Consisting of more than 13,0000 students and professionals who have participated in U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs, PUAN organizes a number of events in Pakistan, including community service projects, leadership training, roundtable discussions, and community engagement activities.

    PUAN has 11 regional chapters across the country in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK),Bahawalpur, Baluchistan, Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), Islamabad, Jamshoro, Karachi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), Lahore, Multan, and Sukkur. Learn more about PUAN at http://www.facebook.com/pakalumni. For more information about the PUAN Islamabad chapter, contact Ayesha Fazal at ayesha.fazal@gmail.com.

  • ISLAMABAD, Sept 15: Over 4,000 students and their parents visited the 'Back to school fair' organized by the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) in collaboration with the US embassy at a local hotel on Sunday.

    The alumni of US colleges and universities were also present there to discuss with prospective Pakistani students studying in the United States for their higher education options.

    There was representation of 44 universities of US and they provided all the relevant material including prospectus of universities to give information regarding admission to US universities.

    Zafar Sheikh, a student who wants to go to US for higher studies, said it was nice to know that all the information regarding universities was available in the fair.

    "Students mostly spend hours searching internet and after failing to get information about the universities, they pay thousands of rupees to agents who provide services to get admission and prepare documents for the admission and visa procedure," he said.

    "I have learnt lots of things which can even be beneficial for my friends and in future if I applied for admission to any university the experience I got here will help me," he said.

    Rita Akhtar, USEFP executive director, told Dawn that it was the second year that fairs were being held in Pakistan and on September 25 a similar event would be organised in Karachi.

    "There are around 4,000 universities in the United States but unfortunately most of the people only know about four or five of them. So we decided to call top most 44 universities to Pakistan," she said.

    "After getting information about the universities, students will find more options and they will be able to get quality education in different universities of US," she said

  • By Maha Mussadaq
    Published: September 16, 2013

    Students are being briefed at different stalls during the 'Back to School' fair, organised by United States Education Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP). PHOTO: APP


    ISLAMABAD: Hopeful of pursuing higher education in the United States, hundreds of students thronged the halls of Serena Hotel on Sunday afternoon. The US Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) had set up 44 university stalls with representatives of US varsities who answered the queries of interested students and parents.

    The annual event, initiated last year, provided many students of the twin cities an opportunity to explore their academic options. Students encircled various university stalls, wanting to learn more about scholarship opportunities and chances of them studying in world renowned colleges. Staff of US embassy and USEFP alumni had volunteered to represent and provide guidance about their colleges and entertain questions of had about college programmes, scholarships and various other things.

    As the Fulbright scholarship gains popularity in Pakistan, with around 180 students going for studies in the US this year, students were keen to know details of the educational assistance programme. Sitting at the stall of Ohio Wesleyan University, Delaware was Rafaya Sufi, an alumni and educational advisor at USEFP. Speaking to The Express Tribune, Sufi said most students enquire about getting into an affordable college in the US. She said the majority of students want to know about each college's funds and how they can reduce the tuition fee by obtaining high grades.

    US embassy Deputy Cultural Attaché Judith Ravin said that as the Fulbright programme grows in Pakistan, so does the number of prospective students at such events. "I am overwhelmed to see the response today," she said.

    A student Abdullah Zubair had come with 72 students from Cadet College, Hasanabdal for the event. "Due to the limited access to the outside world, this was good exposure for us," Zubair said, adding that the majority of students' misconceptions were cleared after meeting representatives of US varsities.

    USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar said there are more than 4,000 colleges and universities in the United States whereas Pakistanis are aware of only a few hundreds. She said events such as these help students discover schools that they would have otherwise missed in their own research.

    The one-day event will now take place in Lahore and Karachi later this month.

    Published in The Express Tribune, September 16th, 2013.

  • U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission Ambassador Hoagland with Pakistani students who will soon depart for graduate studies at American universities on U.S.-funded Fulbright scholarships.


    U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission Ambassador Richard Hoagland congratulated 180 Pakistani graduate students who will soon depart for master's or doctoral studies at American universities on U.S.-funded Fulbright scholarships. The Fulbright Program is the flagship academic exchange program of the U.S. government. Funded by the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the awards cover travel, living stipends, health insurance, and tuition for the entire period of study.

    This year, 151 masters and 29 Ph.D. students will take up these prestigious awards. Fulbright grantees represent every province of Pakistan and study a variety of academic disciplines, including engineering, energy management, business, and social sciences. After completing their studies in the United States, the students will return to Pakistan and play a vital role in Pakistan's future. Ambassador Hoagland highlighted the important role of academic exchange programs in strengthening people-to-people ties between the United States and Pakistan. "In my nearly 30 years of diplomatic service I have met hundreds of Fulbright participants. They have always been outstanding representatives of their countries, making a difference to people and institutions in their own country and in the United States," he said. "You represent all of Pakistan's provinces; you come from big cities and small villages, from the public school system and private colleges. I am confident that you will follow in that great tradition."

    The Fulbright program in Pakistan is the largest and one of the oldest in the world. The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP), now celebrating its 63rd year of operation in the country, administers the program. Since 2005, 1,255 Pakistanis have received Fulbright Awards for graduate degrees, of which 40 percent have been women. "Opportunities for Pakistani students to study in the United States have never been greater," said Rita Akhtar, Executive Director of USEFP. She congratulated the departing students saying, "This was a very strenuous and transparent competition. We know you will represent Pakistan very well in the United States and return to make a real difference here."

    USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States, is one of 51 Fulbright Commissions throughout the world. Its mission is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the United States through educational and cultural exchange programs. Since its inception more than 60 years ago, nearly 4,000 Pakistanis and more than 800 Americans have participated in USEFP-administered exchange programs. In addition to the Fulbright program, USEFP administers a number of scholarship programs for undergraduates, teachers, journalists, and other professionals.

    The Fulbright Program is one element of a comprehensive U.S. education assistance program for Pakistan that includes building or rehabilitating nearly 800 schools, which benefits more than 86,000 school children; creating accredited degree programs in education at 90 teacher colleges and universities; providing college scholarships for more than 10,000 low-income students; establishing Centers for Advanced Studies at three Pakistani universities; and launching eight university partnerships that connect American and Pakistani universities.

  • July 6, 2013 -- U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission Ambassador Richard Hoagland congratulated 95 Pakistani students traveling to the United States for undergraduate study as part of the U.S. government-funded Global Undergraduate (Global UGRAD) Program.

    "The United States has a long tradition of embracing international students and celebrating the diversity that they bring to our campuses and country, which is why we receive more foreign students than any other country in the world," said Ambassador Hoagland.

    "We welcome more than 1,000 Pakistanis in the United States each year on our many exchange programs, which clearly demonstrates the depth of our commitment to Pakistan's young people."

    Ninety-five Pakistani students will soon depart for a semester of study at U.S. colleges and universities under the Global UGRAD fellowship program, an initiative of the U.S. Department of State. The U.S. government fully funds these fellowships for the entire period of study. The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) administers the program.

    "The really exciting thing about this group of undergraduates is that so many of these students come from remote or economically disadvantaged areas of Pakistan." said Rita Akhtar, Executive Director of USEFP at a pre-departure orientation to help students prepare to study in the United States.

    Akhtar noted that this year's group includes 36 students from Punjab, 28 from Sindh, 20 from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 14 from Gilgit-Baltistan, nine from Balochistan, four from AJK, three from FATA, and two from Islamabad Capital Territory.

    Fifty-four percent of the students are women. Students will pursue degrees in a wide variety of disciplines, including humanities and social sciences, engineering, basic sciences, law, art and design, economics, and business administration. The students are attending more than 50 different colleges and universities located throughout the United States.

    The Global UGRAD program was launched in the fall of 2010 when the first cohort of around 50 students departed for the United States. More than 600 students have participated in the program to-date.

    USEFP is a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States. USEFP's mission is to promote mutual understanding between the American and Pakistani people through educational and cultural exchange. Since its inception 63 years ago, nearly 4,000 Pakistanis and more than 800 Americans have participated in USEFP-administered exchange programs.

2012

  • Ambassador congratulates Pakistani exchange students Islamabad, December 14, 2012

    Ambassador Richard Olson congratulated more than 100 Pakistani students traveling to the United States for undergraduate study as part of the U.S.-government funded Global Undergraduate (Global UGRAD) Program.

    "I am proud of our student exchange programs here in Pakistan, which are the largest anywhere in the world and demonstrate the depth of our commitment to Pakistan's young people," said Ambassador Olson.

    More than 100 Pakistani students will depart in January for a semester of study at U.S. colleges and universities under the Global UGRAD fellowship program which is an initiative of the U.S. Department of State. The U.S. government fully funds these fellowships for the entire period of study. The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) administers the program and held a pre-departure orientation December 13-14 to help students prepare to study in the U.S.

    "The really exciting thing about this group of undergraduates," said Ms. Rita Akhtar, Executive Director USEFP, "is that so many of these students come from remote or economically disadvantaged areas of Pakistan. The group includes 31 students from Punjab, 25 from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 22 from Sindh, 17 from Gilgit-Baltistan, 4 from FATA, 5 from Islamabad Capital Territory, seven from Balochistan, and two from AJK. Students will be pursuing a wide variety of disciplines, including humanities and social science subjects, engineering, basic sciences, law, art and design, economics, and business administration." The students are attending more than 50 different colleges and universities located throughout the United States.

    The Global UGRAD program was launched in the fall of 2010 when the first cohort of approximately 50 students departed for the U.S. More than 400 students have participated in the program to date.

    USEFP is a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States. USEFP's mission is to promote mutual understanding between the American and Pakistani people through educational and cultural exchange. Since its inception more than 62 years ago, nearly 4,000 Pakistanis and more than 800 Americans have participated in USEFP administered exchange programs.

  • USEFP celebrates International Education Week in Pakistan

    In celebration of International Education Week, the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) held a day-long event at the USEFP Islamabad Office to encourage students to seek opportunities for learning and growth, with a specific emphasis on higher education opportunities in the U.S. The highlight of the event involved students, parents, and implementers of the English Access Microscholarship Program. Shazia Khan, Manager Fulbright Outreach and Educational Advising at USEFP, welcomed guests and highlighted the importance of international education. "Education is a powerful tool, that can help Pakistan's youth build a better tomorrow" she said on the occasion.

    The Access Program, established by the U.S. Department of State, provides scholarships worldwide to talented 14-18 year-olds from disadvantaged backgrounds for after-school English language classes. Since the program's inception in 2004, over 70,000 students in more than 85 countries have participated in the Access program. Pakistan has the largest Access program in the world; Over 5,000 students in 17 locations across Pakistan have benefited from this initiative.

    The Director of English Language Programs at the U.S. Embassy, Ms. Joëlle Uzarski, encouraged the Access students to explore opportunities for further learning. "English," she said, "is a valuable tool which you can use to open doors to further education, better jobs, and friendships with other young people around the world. The competition for these scholarships is tough, and you have been selected because we believe you have a bright future."

    The event kicked off with a welcome speech by USEFP, encouraging students and parents to take advantage of free-of-cost educational advising and online resources offered by USEFP in the three major cities of Pakistan. Select Access Program alumni spoke of their experience and provided a mentoring session for new Access students who have recently been awarded scholarships. The audience engaged in interactive discussion, trivia questions about the U.S., and fun prizes. Parents were encouraged to continue to support their children's education and higher education aspirations.

    This event was one of many engaging activities organized this year by USEFP in celebration of International Education Week. Other events included 'Back to School' college fairs hosted in Lahore and Karachi, Model United Nations events organized by GIK Institute and International Islamic University, a South Asian Youth Conference featuring youth delegates from seven SARC countries, information sessions, and a virtual college fair hosting more than 150 U.S. colleges and universities online. Counselor networking sessions were also organized to help empower local schools. Additional U.S. Embassy representatives participating in USEFP Islamabad's IEW events included Ms. Kathryn Schalow, Public Affairs Officer and Mr. Robert Raines, Deputy Cultural Affairs Officer for the U.S. Department of State. Mr. Raines and Ms. Schalow offered words of encouragement and support to student audiences.

    International Education Week celebrates the benefits of international education and exchange programs worldwide. This joint initiative of the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education is part of an effort to promote programs that prepare young Americans for the global environment and attract future leaders from abroad to study, learn, and exchange experiences in the United States. USEFP is hosting with a wide range of events to commemorate International Education Week in Pakistan.

    USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States, is one of 51 'Fulbright Commissions' located throughout the world. Fulbright is the flagship educational exchange program of the United States Department of State. The mission of the program is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the people of the United States through educational and cultural exchange. Since its inception more than 62 years ago, nearly 4,000 Pakistanis and more than 800 Americans have participated in USEFP administered exchange programs. In addition to the Fulbright program, USEFP administers a number of scholarship programs for undergraduates, teachers, journalists, and other professionals. In addition, USEFP offices in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi assist students interested in applying to study in the United States. USEFP also runs testing centers in Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi administering the TOEFL, SAT, GRE, and other standardized examinations. Students can learn more by visiting www.usefp.org or www.facebook.com/USEFP.

  • 9th Annual Fulbright and Humphrey Alumni Conference concluded - alumni committed to promote tolerant society

    U.S. Ambassador Richard Olson was the chief guest at the inaugural session of 9th Annual Fulbright and Humphrey Alumni Conference in Islamabad. Held at HEC auditorium from Nov 9 - 11, the conference brought together Fulbright and Humphrey Program alumni from all over Pakistan for discussion and academic presentations on the theme of "Building a Tolerant Society Together. "The Fulbright Program is the flagship scholarship program of the U.S. Department of State; the Humphrey Program is also a program of the Department of State, designed for mid-career professionals. The aim of both programs is to promote mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of Pakistan through educational and cultural exchange, as well as to contribute to Pakistan's development. Ms. Kathy Schalow, Deputy Public Affairs Officer and Chair United Sates Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) Board and Dr. Javaid Laghari, Chairman HEC, were also present at the inaugural session.

    Fulbright and Humphrey include vice chancellors, senior university faculty and prominent government officials, as well as many recently returned Masters and PhD graduates working in nearly every sector all across the country.

    "The Fulbright Program operates in 151 countries. Since 2005, Pakistan has had one of the world's largest Fulbright programs with nearly 1,500 selected so far. The Humphrey Program has also expanded with 35 professionals selected for 2013. Such large numbers mean that the Fulbright and Humphrey Alumni Associations have greater opportunities than ever before to make a difference, although the challenges are also huge," said Ms. Rita Akhtar, Executive Director USEFP.

    In eight sessions over three days, the conference tackled topics such as: The Role of Mass Media in Fostering Tolerance and Mutual Understanding, Approaches to Promoting Peace and Tolerance in Society, Female Voices in Teaching Tolerance, Religious Tolerance and Learning to Live Together, Diversity Leads to Stability, and Challenges in Combating Militancy. Most sessions were chaired by Fulbright alumni serving as vice chancellors of Pakistan's leading universities.

    The Pakistan National Association of Fulbright Alumni (Pak-NAFA) and the Humphrey Alumni Association of Pakistan (HAAP) consist of nine active alumni chapters at Lahore, Islamabad, Peshawar, Karachi, Jamshoro, Multan, Faisalabad, Gilgit, and Quetta. The conference also provided alumni an opportunity to discuss ways to strengthen and expand the local chapters. Dr. Muhammad Ashraf, President Pak-NAFA, professor and principal Atta ur Rehman School of Applied Biosciences, NUST, led these discussions.

    USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States, is one of 51 'Fulbright Commissions' located throughout the world. Fulbright is the flagship educational exchange program of the United States Department of State. The mission of the program is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the people of the United States through educational and cultural exchange. Since its inception more than 62 years ago, nearly 4,000 Pakistanis and more than 800 Americans have participated in USEFP administered exchange programs. In addition to the Fulbright program, USEFP administers a number of scholarship programs for undergraduates, teachers, journalists, and other professionals. In addition, USEFP offices in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi assist students interested in applying to study in the United States. USEFP also runs testing centers in Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi administering the TOEFL, SAT, GRE, and other standardized examinations. USEFP also manages three comprehensive EducationUSA advising centers, where guidance and a wide range of support services are provided to students free of cost.

  • Alumni from American universities meet with students and parents

    Islamabad, September 16, 2012 -- The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) and EducationUSA organized a college fair in Islamabad in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy. Alumni, mostly from the U.S. Embassy, represented more than 55 U.S. colleges and universities ranging from small liberal arts colleges to medium and large public universities. They answered questions and provided advice to prospective students and parents. "There are excellent academic opportunities for Pakistani students in the U.S." said USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar. "With nearly 4,000 higher education institutions in the U.S., there really is a program for everyone. For some students, financial aid and scholarship options are also available to make a U.S. education especially affordable."

    Since many universities have application deadlines in December and January, one of the aims of the college fair was to encourage students to start the application process. In addition to giving an opportunity to meet alumni representatives and educational advisers, the fair enabled students and parents to learn more about application deadlines, admission requirements, and financial aid options. Similar fairs will be held in Karachi on September 22 and in Lahore on September 29.

    EducationUSA promotes the United States as the destination of choice for Pakistani students. U.S. universities and colleges are among the finest in the world, notably in science and technology. A record number of international students enrolled at colleges and universities in the U.S. during the previous academic year. More than 5,000 Pakistani students are currently studying in the United States.

    USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States, is one of 51 'Fulbright Commissions' located throughout the world. Fulbright is the flagship educational exchange program of the United States Department of State. The mission of the program is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the people of the United States through educational and cultural exchange. Since its inception more than 60 years ago, nearly 4,000 Pakistanis and more than 800 Americans have participated in USEFP administered exchange programs. In addition to the Fulbright program, USEFP administers a number of scholarship programs for undergraduates, teachers, journalists, and other professionals. USEFP also runs testing centers in Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi administering the TOEFL, SAT, GRE, and other standardized examinations. USEFP also manages three comprehensive EducationUSA advising centers, where guidance and a wide range of support services are provided to students free of cost. You can learn more about USEFP by visiting their website (www.usefp.org) or Facebook page (www.facebook.com/USEFP).

  • Pre-Departure Orientation Workshop held by U.S. Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP)

    July 18, 2012--ISLAMABAD (PAKISTAN) -- 200 undergraduate students from all parts of Pakistan will be departing over the next year for a semester of study at colleges and universities in the U.S. as part of the Global Undergraduate Program (UGRAD) in Pakistan. 100 will travel in August/September for the Fall semester and an additional 100 will go to the USA in January 2013.

    An initiative of the U.S. Department of State, the UGRAD program will send Pakistani students to over 50 campuses in the U.S. where they will take classes along with American students, do public presentations on the culture and people of Pakistan, and be an active part of the local community they will be staying in. Since the program began in 2010, approximately 500 Pakistanis students have participated. The fellowships cover all expenses for the students including travel, lodging, stipend, and tuition. All of the students are required to return to Pakistan to complete their Bachelor's degrees.

    A Pre-Departure Orientation (PDO) was organized by USEFP for departing students at the Serena Hotel in Islamabad on July 18-19. The students were briefed by USEFP about the program, visa regulations, American culture, and U.S. higher education and campus life. "To see so many impressive Pakistani young people - each of you an incredibly talented representative of this great nation's bright future - is inspiring," said Brent Beemer, Cultural Attaché at the U.S. Embassy who addressed the group on Wednesday. "To think that my country has had some role in advancing your education and helping your nation's prospects makes me feel very good, and even proud."

    "The really exciting thing about this group of undergraduates," said Rita Akhtar, Executive Director of the USEFP, "is that so many of these students come from remote or economically disadvantaged areas of Pakistan. The group includes students from every province of Pakistan and 52% are women. The students come from a wide variety of disciplines, including humanities and social science subjects, engineering, basic sciences, law, art and design, economics, and business administration" she added.

    USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States, is one of 51 'Fulbright Commissions' located throughout the world. Fulbright is the flagship educational exchange program of the United States Department of State. The mission of the program is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the people of the United States through educational and cultural exchange. Since its inception more than 61 years ago, nearly 4,000 Pakistanis and more than 800 Americans have participated in USEFP administered exchange programs. In addition to the Fulbright program, USEFP administers a number of scholarship programs for undergraduates, teachers, journalists, and other professionals. In addition, USEFP offices in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi assist students interested in applying to study in the United States. USEFP also runs testing centers in Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi administering the TOEFL, SAT, GRE, and other standardized examinations.

  • July 6, 2012--ISLAMABAD (PAKISTAN) -- Around 180 Pakistani students will be departing for universities throughout the United States on the Fulbright Scholarship Program this summer. The Fulbright Program is the flagship academic exchange program of the United States Government. Funded by the U.S. State Department and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the awards cover all travel, living, and tuition expenses towards achieving a Masters or Ph.D. degree.

    The 2012 Fulbright program includes students from every province of Pakistan and includes a wide variety of academic disciplines including business, engineering, social sciences, public policy/administration, education, fine arts, communications, technology, law, and health. The Fulbrighters are required to return to Pakistan after completion of their studies to play a leading role in the country's continuing development.

    A Pre-Departure Orientation (PDO) was arranged by United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) for the departing students at the Serena Hotel, Islamabad on July 5. The grantees were briefed by USEFP about the program, visa regulations, American culture, U.S. higher education and campus life and adjusting to life as a new student in United States. A few alumni, currently working for prestigious organizations in Pakistan, also shared their experiences with departing grantees.

    The orientation was followed by an official send off featuring Richard A. Hoagland, Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad. "I have no doubt that you will be welcomed on your campuses, as so many other foreign students have been. The United States has a long tradition of embracing international students and celebrating the diversity that they bring to our campuses and country. When Pakistanis sit side-by-side with Americans in the classroom they generate new ideas, challenge old stereotypes, and learn from and about each other. And they make life-long friends," Ambassador Hoagland said. Senior U.S. Embassy officials were also present on the occasion.

    The Fulbright program in Pakistan is administered by the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP), now celebrating its 62nd year of operation in the country. Since 2005, USEFP has sent 1,095 people advanced degrees on Fulbright awards for Masters or Ph.D. degrees. Nearly 40 percent of these grantees are women. "Opportunities for Pakistani students to study in the U.S. have never been greater", said Ms. Rita Akhtar, Executive Director USEFP on the occasion. She congratulated the departing students saying, "This was a very strenuous and transparent competition. We know you will represent Pakistan very well in the U.S. and return to make a real difference here."

    USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States, is one of 51 'Fulbright Commissions' located throughout the world. Fulbright is the flagship educational exchange program of the United States Department of State. The mission of the program is to promote mutual understanding between the people of Pakistan and the people of the United States through educational and cultural exchange. Since its inception more than 60 years ago, nearly 4,000 Pakistanis and more than 800 Americans have participated in USEFP administered exchange programs. In addition to the Fulbright program, USEFP administers a number of scholarship programs for undergraduates, teachers, journalists, and other professionals. In addition, USEFP offices in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi assist students interested in applying to study in the United States. USEFP also runs testing centers in Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi administering the TOEFL, SAT, GRE, and other standardized examinations.

  • June 21, 2012, Islamabad -- The U.S. Embassy hosted yesterday an orientation for 40 Pakistani public school English teachers, half of them women, at the Serena Hotel. The teachers will travel to the United States for six weeks of intensive training as part of the U.S. government-funded Teaching Excellence and Achievement (TEA) program.

    The teachers were selected from hundreds of Pakistani public secondary school teacher applicants. The TEA program provides educators a unique opportunity to develop subject expertise and enhance their teaching skills. Participants will engage in group training seminars and internships at U.S. secondary schools. The U.S. Department of State pays for all travel, living stipends, health insurance, and tuition for the entire period of study.

    U.S. Embassy Cultural Affairs Officer, Brent Beemer, encouraged the teachers to take advantage of the opportunity granted them and to return to Pakistan prepared for a challenge: "to teach your students to write and speak excellent English, nothing less." Beemer told the teachers that the TEA program is part of the U.S. government's commitment to education in Pakistan, and in particular the enhancement and encouragement of its teachers. "With 70 percent of its population under age 30, the future of Pakistan, and its role in the world, is dependent on the success of its children in school right now. The job of educating that generation relies on teachers like you, and what an opportunity. Imagine tens of millions of educated, multi-lingual young Pakistani men and women serving as soldiers, politicians, diplomats, engineers, lawyers, doctors, scientists, businessmen, and teachers: what a great nation and a great world they through you will build."

    For more information on educational opportunities to study in the United States, students and parents can contact the United States Educational Foundation of Pakistan (USEFP) at http://www.usefp.org/.

    USEFP, a bi-national commission established in 1950 by the governments of Pakistan and the United States, is one of 51 'Fulbright Commissions' located throughout the world. Since its inception more than 61 years ago, nearly 4,000 Pakistanis and more than 800 Americans have participated in USEFP- administered exchange programs. In addition to the Fulbright program, USEFP administers a number of scholarship programs for undergraduates, teachers, journalists, and other professionals. In addition, USEFP offices in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi assist students interested in applying to study in the United States by offering free advising services. USEFP also runs testing centers in Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi administering the TOEFL, SAT, GRE, and other standardized examinations.

  • June 1, 2012 -- ISLAMABAD (PAKISTAN) -- Fifty five young professionals from all over Pakistan, most of them from underserved areas, will be departing for a year of education at various community colleges in the U.S. They are the recipients of Community College Initiative Program (CCIP) grants awarded through the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) with the support of the U.S. Department of State. A Pre-Departure Orientation (PDO) for the grantees was held at the Serena Hotel for two days, in which they were briefed on academic and social life in the U.S. Chief Guest on the ceremony today was Mr. Mitchell Moss, Public Affairs Officer of the U.S. Embassy in Pakistan.

    The grantees will be attending American community colleges on non-degree certificate programs. Most participants have two-year Bachelors' degrees as well as two years of work experience. The CCI Program, fully funded by the U.S. Government, enables professionals to learn the best practices in their fields globally. Eligible fields for the 2012 program included Agriculture, Applied Engineering, Business Management and administration, Media and Tourism and Hospitality Management and Health technology. The CCI scholarship is announced once a year and funds travel, a living stipend, health insurance, and tuition fees for the entire period of study. In the past four years, 213 Pakistanis have already participated in this program.

    American community colleges are a unique and extremely successful model of higher educational institution. They operate under a policy of "open admission" so that anyone with a high school diploma may attend, regardless of prior academic status or college entrance exam scores. However, students have to take assessment tests before enrolling. They offer two-year degree or certificate programs often linked to local economic needs. As well as offering vocational tracks, academic credits gained in community colleges can generally transfer towards a four-year college degree in even the most prestigious of American universities.

    "The program is unique," explained Rita Akhtar, Executive Director, USEFP. "It provides non-degree professionals with the international education and exposure to the United States. Bachelors and Masters degree holders in Pakistan have a variety of opportunities open to them; people with two-year degrees seldom do. Most of these grantees are very talented but lack a regular degree. This program also allows us to give opportunities to more people from underserved and remote areas. It is a real privilege to be involved in making peoples' dreams happen. " Mr. Robert Mercer, Chairman of the Department of Communication/Journalism at the Cypress Community College, California also addressed gathering. Mr. Mercer is in Pakistan on Fulbright Specialist Program and he spoke about the history of the Community Colleges in the U.S. as well sharing useful tips for being a successful student.

  • 2013 Program for fully-funded Fulbright Masters or PhD Study now open

    Feb 10, 2012, Islamabad -- The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) announced the world's largest Fulbright Program in Pakistan for the year 2013. The U.S. Government's flagship scholarship program awards deserving Pakistani students full scholarships covering tuition, textbooks, airfare, a stipend, and health insurance to complete their Master's or Ph.D. degrees in a field of their choice in universities across the United States.

    Kicking off the 2013 Fulbright season, Deputy Chief of Mission Ambassador Richard Hoagland stated, "We are proud that Pakistan has the largest Fulbright program in the world, and also one of the oldest. Our agreement initiating the program was signed on September 23, 1950 - and the first Pakistanis and Americans traveled each way in the same year. It was one of the very first agreements of its kind and has since been extended to 155 countries around the world." USEFP Executive Director Ms. Rita Akhtar echoed Ambassador Hoagland's sentiments and encouraged students from all over Pakistan to take advantage of the Fulbright Program in 2013.

    In addition to the approximately 200 who will depart in the fall of 2012, 369 students currently study in the United States on Fulbright awards. This is one example of the U.S. government's long-term commitment to the education of Pakistanis and to increasing mutual understanding between both countries. Since USEFP's inception more than 61 years ago, nearly 4,000 Pakistanis and more than 800 Americans have participated in USEFP-administered exchange programs. The Fulbright Program is just one of many U.S.-government funded educational, professional, and cultural exchange programs that build people to people ties among Americans and Pakistanis.

    Women, minorities, people with disabilities, and students from FATA, Balochistan, and all of Pakistan's provinces are strongly encouraged to apply. All disciplines are eligible, with the exception of the field of clinical medicine. Applicants studying energy, water, and agricultural disciplines are strongly encouraged to apply. More information about this program, as well as standardized testing and free educational advising services can be found on the USEFP website at www.usefp.org.