The U.S. Department of State is accepting applications for the 2026 cohort of the Benjamin Franklin Transatlantic Fellowship. Specifically, this intensive exchange program helps young Europeans scale their impact through cross-cultural diplomatic training in the USA. Consequently, selected youth leaders work directly with American peers to deploy civic engagement and advocacy projects.
Program Overview This is a diplomatic exchange and youth leadership program. Therefore, it is ideal for high school students who need transatlantic exposure to serve their communities through public service. By joining, you get access to a fully funded four-week institute focused on foreign policy and democracy.
Key Benefits Participants receive high-value travel and educational support. Specifically, the benefits include:
- Travel: All international flights, domestic transport, housing, and meals are entirely covered.
- Education: A robust curriculum exploring US foreign policy, civil society development, and debate.
- Network: Lifelong inclusion in a powerful transatlantic network of young civic leaders.
Eligibility Criteria To qualify, an applicant must be a high-school-aged student (16 to 18 years old). Crucially, you must have a strong command of the English language and a proven track record of civic engagement.
- Citizenship: Must be a citizen of eligible European nations (e.g., Switzerland, Liechtenstein).
- Experience: Preference is given to those who have had little to no prior study or travel experience in the US.
- Commitment: Must demonstrate a clear interest in transatlantic relations and public service.
Application Process
- Deadline: April 17, 2026.
- Submission: Apply via the respective U.S. Embassy online portal.
- Requirements: Motivation letter and a 1-minute video explaining your candidacy.
