IREX Community Solutions Program 2027: Fully Funded Fellowship in the USA for Community Leaders

The IREX Community Solutions Program (CSP) 2027 is now accepting applications from experienced community leaders around the world. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and implemented by IREX, this fully funded professional development and exchange program empowers community leaders to strengthen their leadership skills, expand their professional networks, and address local and regional development challenges.

The program offers selected participants an approximately three-month professional exchange in the United States, including a 12-week practicum with a U.S.-based host organization. Participants gain practical experience in community development, economic growth, entrepreneurship, workforce development, innovation, and cross-sector collaboration.

After returning to their home countries, fellows will implement a community-based SCALE-Up Project using knowledge, skills, and approaches acquired during the U.S. exchange.

Benefits of the Community Solutions Program 2027

The program covers most expenses associated with participation, including:

• Round-trip international airfare: Travel from the participant’s home city to the United States and return.
• Monthly living allowance: Financial support for accommodation, meals, and other living expenses during the U.S. exchange.
• J-1 visa support: Assistance with the U.S. exchange visa process.
• Health insurance: Accident and sickness coverage during the program.
• Professional exchange: A 12-week practicum with a U.S. host organization.
• Leadership development: Training, workshops, and practical skills development.
• Innovation and applied skills labs: Exposure to tools and approaches for regional economic development.
• Professional networking: Opportunities to connect with American professionals, organizations, and fellow international leaders.
• Community development project: Support and guidance to develop a SCALE-Up Project after returning home.
• Alumni network: Continued professional connections with Community Solutions Program alumni.

The Community Solutions Program is a fully funded international exchange fellowship. There is no application fee.

Program Focus Areas

Applicants should have experience and interest in addressing community challenges in areas such as:

• Economic development and entrepreneurship
• Workforce development and employment
• Environmental issues and sustainability
• Transparency and accountability
• Women’s empowerment and community inclusion
• Innovation, digital tools, and technology
• Community revitalization and regional development
• Public-private partnerships and resource mobilization

The program emphasizes practical, measurable community impact and sustainable solutions.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the IREX Community Solutions Program 2027, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Age: Between 27 and 39 years old at the time of application.
• Nationality: Must be a citizen of an eligible country. Nepal is included in the eligible countries list.
• Professional experience: At least five years of experience working on community issues, with demonstrated and measurable benefits to local communities.
• Residence: Must be living and working in their country of citizenship at the time of application. Applicants residing or working abroad, including through academic, training, or research programs, are generally not eligible.
• English proficiency: Must demonstrate strong spoken and written English skills.
• Availability: Must be available to participate in the U.S. exchange program in 2027.
• Visa eligibility: Must be eligible to obtain a U.S. J-1 exchange visitor visa.
• U.S. immigration status: Must not be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and must not have applied for U.S. permanent residency within the past three years.
• Home-country commitment: Must commit to returning to their home country for at least two years after the program and implementing a community-based SCALE-Up Project.

English Language Requirement

Applicants do not necessarily need to submit a TOEFL score at the initial application stage. However, semifinalists without a qualifying valid TOEFL score of 520 (paper-based) or 213 (computer-based), or an equivalent approved assessment, will be required to complete an English-language proficiency test.

Program Duration and Important Dates

• Program: Community Solutions Program (CSP) 2027
• Sponsor: U.S. Department of State
• Implementing Organization: IREX
• Location: United States
• Duration: Approximately 3–4 months
• Orientation: August 2–5, 2027 (tentative)
• Professional Practicum: August 9 – October 29, 2027 (tentative)
• End-of-Program Workshop: November 1–4, 2027 (tentative)
• Application Deadline: November 24, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time

Dates are subject to confirmation by the program organizers.

Application Requirements

Applicants should carefully review the official application instructions and prepare information demonstrating:

• Professional background and leadership experience
• Community development initiatives and measurable achievements
• Relevant employment, volunteer work, and projects
• Experience in addressing local or regional challenges
• Motivation for participating in the program
• Plans for applying the knowledge gained to their home communities

Applicants may use AI or other digital tools to help edit or strengthen their application responses. However, all responses must authentically reflect their own experiences, judgment, achievements, and goals. Applicants must disclose their use of such tools and remain responsible for the accuracy and originality of their submissions.

How to Apply

1. Visit the official IREX Community Solutions Program application information page.
2. Review the eligibility requirements and detailed application instructions.
3. Prepare your professional background, community impact evidence, and application responses.
4. Complete the online application through the official application portal.
5. Submit your application before the deadline.

The Community Solutions Program is an excellent opportunity for experienced community leaders seeking international exposure, professional development, and practical tools to create lasting change in their communities.