Islamabad (TDI): The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) has officially announced the conclusion of the Global Undergraduate Exchange Program for Pakistan (Global UGRAD), marking the culmination of a transformative journey spanning 15 years.
The decision comes following a directive from the US Department of State, which has confirmed that the Global UGRAD-Pakistan Program will no longer be offered moving forward.
“We are extremely proud of the impact this program has had on its participants and the communities they have touched”, the statement read.
Since its inception, the Global UGRAD Program has provided opportunities and fostered cross-cultural connections, empowering thousands of Pakistani undergraduate students to engage in academic exchanges at US colleges and universities.
Important Announcement!#USEFP #UGRAD pic.twitter.com/L9cKurbwrz
— USEFP (@USEFP) April 8, 2025
Launched in 2010 in Pakistan, the Global UGRAD Program was part of a broader initiative by the US Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.
Designed to promote mutual understanding between nations, the program offered one-semester, fully funded, non-degree study opportunities in the United States to outstanding undergraduate students from around the world.
Pakistani students joined the program in growing numbers each year, making it one of the most competitive and sought-after exchange opportunities for undergraduate students in the country.
After the selection of candidates through a competitive criteria, the selected candidates were given the chance to study at accredited US colleges and universities, engage in community service, experience American culture firsthand, and share their own culture with US communities.
Through academic coursework and cultural immersion, students enhanced their leadership skills, broadened their global perspectives, and returned to Pakistan as more empowered individuals, equipped to make positive contributions to their communities, the statement added.
USEFP also extends its heartfelt gratitude to all those who supported and participated in the program over the years.
“Their dedication to personal and academic excellence has been the cornerstone of the program’s success.” it said.
“Though this chapter has come to an end, students are encouraged by USEFP to seek out new avenues for academic exchange and development, as many other scholarship and fellowship opportunities remain available, as said in the statement released by USEFP.”
USEFP reaffirms its mission to continue fostering educational ties between Pakistan and the United States through other ongoing programs, it added.
Areeba Kanwal is a contributor at The Diplomatic Insight and has passion for International Relations and diplomacy.
