Community Solutions Program 2027: Funded U.S. Fellowship
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Most funded trips to the United States are aimed at students. The Community Solutions Program (CSP) is different. It is built for people who already work on community problems, such as running a small NGO, organising young people, or working on environmental or transparency issues, and want hands-on experience inside an American organisation. Here is what the programme offers and, just as importantly, how to check whether a new cycle is actually open before you start writing.
Overview
CSP is a professional development programme of the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, managed by IREX. Selected fellows spend about four months in the United States on a practicum with a nonprofit or government host organisation, learning practical skills in their field. Fellows also take part in online leadership training and, after returning home, carry out a community project. The programme has historically focused on themes such as accountability and transparency, environmental issues, peace and conflict resolution, and tolerance and diversity. U.S. exchange programmes have been reviewed and some paused since 2025, so it is important to confirm the current status on the official IREX page before applying. If you are looking for similar opportunities, see our UN Youth Delegates and World Bank Young Professionals guides.
Eligibility Requirements
- Citizen and resident of an eligible country listed in the current call
- Within the age range set for the cycle (historically mid-20s to late 30s)
- At least two years of work or volunteer experience in community development
- Proficient in English (reading, writing and speaking)
- Currently working on community issues in one of the programme's themes
- Able to get a U.S. J-1 visa and committed to returning home after the fellowship
Benefits
- Round-trip international travel to the United States
- J-1 visa sponsorship
- Monthly allowance for housing, meals and living costs during the fellowship
- Four-month professional practicum with a U.S. host organisation
- Leadership and professional training
- Support for a community project after returning home
Application Process
- 1Visit IREX's Community Solutions Program page and confirm a new cycle is open for your country
- 2Read the call carefully for eligible countries, age limits and themes
- 3Prepare essays explaining your community work and what you want to learn in the U.S.
- 4Complete the online application before the deadline
- 5If shortlisted, take part in a remote interview
- 6Selected fellows are matched with a host organisation and receive pre-departure orientation
Required Documents
- Online application form
- Essays on your community work and goals
- CV or résumé
- Reference letter(s) where requested
- Copy of passport
Deadline
Deadlines are set for each cycle. Check irex.org for the current call. If no cycle is listed, the programme is not accepting applications at the moment.
Visit Official WebsiteFrequently Asked Questions
Is the Community Solutions Program fully funded?
Yes. Selected fellows receive international travel, J-1 visa sponsorship and a living allowance for the fellowship period.
Do I need a university degree?
The key requirement is community work experience and English proficiency. Check the current call for any education requirements.
Is there an application fee?
No. CSP is free to apply. Only apply through the official IREX website.
What happens after the fellowship?
Fellows return home and carry out a community project using what they learned, with continued support from the programme network.
Conclusion
CSP rewards people with real, specific community work. Concrete numbers and outcomes in your essays matter more than big promises. Bookmark the official IREX page, prepare your essays in advance, and only apply through IREX. CSP never charges an application fee, so treat anyone asking for money as a scam.