Study USA
Do you want to spend a year studying at a college or university in the USA on a generously funded scholarship worth £50,000?
Do you want to experience new cultures, learn new skills, boost your confidence and enhance your employability skills?
Each year between 50-60 students from Northern Ireland colleges and universities participate in the Study USA programme, which has been running since 1994.
The British Council works in partnership with over 140 institutions across the United States of America, from East coast to West coast, opportunities are spread across many states - giving students the chance to experience the huge cultural and geographical diversity of the USA.
So, what’s it all about?
Managed by the British Council on behalf of the Department for the Economy, last year Study USA celebrated its 30-year anniversary. The programme launched in 1994, initially to support Northern Ireland’s peace process.
Over its 30-year history, it has provided opportunities for over 2,500 students, who have assisted in fostering deep and long-lasting connections between the US and Northern Ireland. Alumni of the programme describe it as a ‘game-changer’ in terms of their career development when they return to Northern Ireland.
Further Education (FE) students all across Northern Ireland are being encouraged to take advantage of this life-changing opportunity by applying for Study USA, when applications open in the autumn*.
Students can choose what they study during the year including a combination of subjects related to their home discipline, as well as classes in Entrepreneurship, Leadership, Communications, Marketing and Modern Languages. *Check the Study USA website for information on programme launch date and the FE student deadline.
Am I eligible?
FE students studying a full-time HND or Foundation Degree course at a further education college in Northern Ireland should apply in their first year. FE students studying a full-time undergraduate degree programme should apply in their second year.
Full eligibility criteria are available on the Study USA website.
What costs does the scholarship cover and what do students have to budget for?
Study USA is funded by the Department for the Economy. The scholarship funding package (worth approximately £50,000) includes:
- One return flight to the US
- Tuition fees paid by the participating US colleges and universities
- Term-time accommodation on your US campus
- A full meal plan on campus
- A generous $1,000 textbook allowance
- A £1,000 bursary paid directly to all students when they return to the US in spring 2027
- Elective classes – materials and fees up to a maximum of $500 per academic year
All participating students must cover the following costs for their year in the US:
- US student visa costs
- Medical and travel insurance
- £200 Commitment fee*
- Personal spending money
*Students who are successful at interview will be required to pay a £200 Commitment Fee to secure their place on the programme. The £200 Commitment Fee will be payable by students within seven calendar days of being notified of the outcome of the interview and offered a place on the programme.
Please note that due to the generous scholarship provided by the Study USA programme, which includes your tuition fees, term-time accommodation, a full meal plan, textbook allowance, return flight and £1,000 bursary, participants will NOT be eligible for student finance whilst on the Study USA programme.
What can I expect?
Students will experience vibrant campus life, receive plenty of academic support, and have opportunities to volunteer and contribute to local communities. Study USA graduates represent a unique talent pool, with a combination of enhanced skills, US connections, local knowledge and international experience.
For more information visit British Council.
