Tomorrow’s Leaders USA Scholarship Program 2025 (Completely Funded)

The Tomorrow’s Leaders Program, initiated by the U.S. Department of State’s Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI), is a fully-funded scholarship opportunity aimed at empowering students from underserved socioeconomic backgrounds in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Launched in 2006, the program offers both undergraduate and graduate scholarships to students from countries such as Egypt, Lebanon, Jordan and Yemen, among others.

It seeks individuals who demonstrate academic potential, leadership abilities and a commitment to civic engagement, equipping them with the skills to become transformative leaders in their communities. In partnership with prestigious American-style universities like the American University of Beirut and the American University in Cairo, the program fosters a robust educational experience grounded in liberal arts, critical thinking and leadership development.

In addition to academic scholarships, the Tomorrow’s Leaders Program emphasizes community engagement and real-world leadership skills. Students are encouraged to participate in internships, civic engagement projects and study abroad experiences, such as spending a semester in the United States, to broaden their cultural understanding and leadership capacities.

Through these experiences, participants gain exposure to diverse global perspectives while strengthening their ability to address pressing challenges within their home countries. Upon graduation, these scholars join a growing alumni network, contributing across sectors like government, education and social services, driving positive change in the MENA region. The program not only transforms individual lives but also contributes to the broader development of the region through the creation of a new generation of leaders.

Leadership Development and Community Engagement

While academic success is a core focus of the program, the Tomorrow’s Leaders initiative also prioritizes leadership development and community engagement. Program participants are required to take part in various internships, civic engagement activities and enrichment workshops. These experiences allow students to apply the knowledge they gain in academic settings to real-world challenges. Through these hands-on experiences, students can engage with professionals, interact with their local communities and work toward addressing the urgent issues that affect the MENA region.

One of the most enriching aspects of the Tomorrow’s Leaders Program is the chance for undergraduate students to study abroad in the United States for one semester. This immersive cultural experience broadens students’ perspectives, enhances their global understanding and bolsters their leadership capacities. Upon completing the program, participants join an active and growing alumni network of over 1,000 Tomorrow’s Leaders. This network plays a crucial role in driving change across a variety of sectors in the MENA region, including education, government, social services and the private sector.

Degree Levels and Programs Offered

The Tomorrow’s Leaders Program in the USA, scheduled for 2025, offers fully funded scholarships for a wide range of academic programs. These scholarships support students pursuing Bachelor’s, Master’s or Ph.D. degrees at U.S. universities.

Available Subjects

The program offers scholarships for studies in all academic disciplines, making it accessible to students from diverse academic backgrounds who seek to develop their leadership skills and contribute to the development of the MENA region.

Scholarship Benefits

The Tomorrow’s Leaders Program offers an extensive array of benefits designed to support participants throughout their academic and personal development. These benefits include:

• Full Tuition and Fees: Participants receive full coverage for their university tuition and related fees, alleviating the financial strain of pursuing higher education.
• University Housing: Scholarship recipients are provided with safe and comfortable housing throughout their studies.
• Monthly Living Stipend: A monthly allowance helps students manage living expenses, allowing them to focus on their academic and leadership responsibilities.
• Visa and Residency Fees: All visa and residency permit fees are covered for the duration of the program.
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance is provided to ensure participants have access to healthcare when needed.
• Textbooks and Laptop: Essential academic tools such as textbooks and laptops are provided to ensure that students can fully engage in their studies.
• Round-Trip Tickets Home: To maintain a strong connection with their families, participants receive two round-trip tickets per year to return home.
• Study Abroad in the U.S. (for Undergraduates): Undergraduate students have the unique opportunity to spend a semester studying in the U.S., gaining valuable international experience.
• Research Assistantships (for Graduates): Graduate students have the option to take part in research assistantships, providing them with practical insights and skills relevant to their academic fields.

This comprehensive package is designed to allow students to fully immerse themselves in their academic journey, develop critical leadership skills and engage in meaningful community and civic initiatives, without the distraction of financial concerns.

Eligible Nationalities

The Tomorrow’s Leaders Program is open to international students from a range of MENA countries, including Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Syria, Tunisia, the West Bank/Gaza and Yemen. These nationalities are specifically targeted as the program seeks to support students from regions with pressing socioeconomic challenges.

Eligibility Criteria

The Tomorrow’s Leaders Program is highly competitive, with eligibility criteria tailored for both undergraduate and graduate applicants. The general requirements are as follows:

For Undergraduates:

• Applicants must hold citizenship from one of the eligible MENA countries, including Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Syria, Tunisia, the West Bank/Gaza or Yemen.
• U.S. citizens and Legal Permanent Residents are not eligible to apply.
• The program is open to high school seniors or 2024 graduates. Additionally, students from Iraq, Libya, Syria, the West Bank/Gaza and Yemen who graduated in 2023 are also eligible.
• Strong academic records and leadership potential are essential.
• English proficiency is required, with a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 80 needed for university admission.
• Applicants must demonstrate maturity, adaptability and a readiness to begin their studies in August 2025.

For Graduates:

• Graduate applicants must hold citizenship from one of the eligible MENA countries, as outlined above.
• They must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential and English proficiency as required by the program they are applying for.
• Graduate students must commit to completing their Master’s degree within two academic years.
• Applicants must provide documentation demonstrating financial need, particularly from underserved and economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Application Procedure

Applications for the 2025 Tomorrow’s Leaders Program are currently open, with the deadline set for November 29, 2024. Interested students can access further information and application instructions on the program’s official website. Applicants should ensure they carefully prepare all necessary documents, including proof of citizenship, academic transcripts and documentation proving financial need.

By participating in the Tomorrow’s Leaders Program, students embark on a transformative educational experience. Not only do they receive an exceptional academic foundation, but they also gain the practical skills and leadership abilities necessary to drive positive change in their communities. As Zahraa Jabbar, a participant from the Lebanese American University, stated, “Tomorrow’s Leaders is an outstanding and caring program that gives you the opportunity to grow and mature on your own while still supporting you through your journey.”

By combining academic rigor, leadership training and community engagement, the Tomorrow’s Leaders Program ensures that its participants emerge not only as educated individuals but as responsible, active citizens committed to making a meaningful impact in their home countries. This holistic approach to education fosters not only intellectual growth but also civic responsibility, creating a ripple effect of positive change throughout the MENA region.

Graduates of the program are equipped with the skills and mindset necessary to navigate complex global challenges and contribute to solutions that promote peace, stability and prosperity. Through their efforts in various sectors, Tomorrow’s Leaders alumni continue to play pivotal roles in shaping the future of the MENA region, driving social, economic and political progress.

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