English · Scholarship
English Access Scholarship (Access) Program
A free, U.S. Department of State–funded program offering 18 months (360 hours) of American English learning, cultural enrichment, leadership and community service.
The 2026–28 application cycle is closed.
- Length
- 18 months · 360 hours
- Cost
- Free
- Grades
- 8 or 9
- Sponsor
- U.S. Department of State
About the program
The English Access Microscholarship (Access) Program provides a foundation of English language skills to talented 13 to 20 year olds from economically disadvantaged sectors through after-school classes and intensive sessions. Access offers two years of English language instruction plus workshops and activities designed to improve participants' appreciation of U.S. culture and values, encourage critical thinking and open-mindedness, and improve their performance in regular school classes.
A global program with deep regional roots
Since its launch in 2004, this U.S. Department of State-supported initiative has benefited 100,000 youth in more than 80 countries. Amideast has worked directly with nearly 40,000 underserved youth across the Middle East and North Africa through Access, helping them gain skills and new perspectives that open doors to future opportunities. Amideast currently serves Access students in Egypt, Jordan and the West Bank, and has implemented the program in Lebanon, Morocco, Tunisia and beyond. Amideast has also offered similar programs in Iraq, the UAE and Yemen with funding from U.S. embassies.
What students gain
- American English language skills
- Cultural enrichment
- Leadership development
- Community service experience
Eligibility (2026–28 cycle)
- Grade 8 or 9
- Overall and English grades of at least 90%
- Resident of Jerusalem or Bethlehem
- No U.S. citizenship or green card
- Commitment to the full program and activities