Study of the U.S. Institutes for Student Leaders (SUSI)

U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs

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Details checked on 30 October 2026. Dates and amounts change every year. Always confirm on the official page.

Who can apply

Students aged 18 to 25 with at least one semester left at a college or university (first- to third-year undergraduates), who show leadership, have English proficiency, little or no prior U.S. travel or study, are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents, and are eligible for a J-1 visa. Participating countries vary by institute.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

A 5 to 6 week programme of academic residency (4 weeks) and a study tour (1 week) at a U.S. university, focused on leadership. Candidates are nominated through U.S. embassies and consulates.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Students aged 18 to 25 with at least one semester left at a college or university (first- to third-year undergraduates), who show leadership, have English proficiency, little or no prior U.S. travel or study, are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents, and are eligible for a J-1 visa. Participating countries vary by institute.
2. Note the deadline. Check with your local U.S. Embassy or Fulbright Commission (the page gives no deadline; nominations are run by the Public Affairs Section of each embassy) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. CV; Cover letter or motivation statement; Proof of current enrolment or recent graduation; Academic transcript; Passport or national ID copy; English-language test result or other language proof (if required); Anything else listed on the official page (this list is a typical checklist - always confirm there).
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

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Tips from our advisors

1. Tailor your CV to the role: lead with the skills and projects the posting asks for.
2. Write a short, specific motivation statement. Name the team or project you want to join and why.
3. Beyond grades, show leadership and community impact with concrete numbers and outcomes.
4. Start at least 8 to 12 weeks early. Certified transcripts, translations and referee letters usually take longer than expected.
5. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.
6. "Rolling" or "varies" does not mean unlimited time. Funds are awarded as applications are reviewed, so apply early.

Quick answers

Who can apply for Study of the U.S. Institutes for Student Leaders (SUSI)?

Students aged 18 to 25 with at least one semester left at a college or university (first- to third-year undergraduates), who show leadership, have English proficiency, little or no prior U.S. travel or study, are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents, and are eligible for a J-1 visa. Participating countries vary by institute.

What does Study of the U.S. Institutes for Student Leaders (SUSI) cover?

For the Entrepreneurship and Economic Development institute the State Department states that it covers all participant costs: travel, housing and meals, allowances and health cover (tuition is not mentioned). The general SUSI page does not state funding.

When is the deadline for Study of the U.S. Institutes for Student Leaders (SUSI)?

Check with your local U.S. Embassy or Fulbright Commission (the page gives no deadline; nominations are run by the Public Affairs Section of each embassy) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with Study of the U.S. Institutes for Student Leaders (SUSI)?

Host countries: United States.

What documents do I need for Study of the U.S. Institutes for Student Leaders (SUSI)?

CV; Cover letter or motivation statement; Proof of current enrolment or recent graduation; Academic transcript; Passport or national ID copy; English-language test result or other language proof (if required); Anything else listed on the official page (this list is a typical checklist - always confirm there).

How much work is the Study of the U.S. Institutes for Student Leaders (SUSI) application?

High: Application through your U.S. Embassy or Fulbright Commission + interview + visa