The U.S. Government sponsors a number of academic, professional, and cultural exchange programs in Moldova. The goals of these programs are to foster mutual understanding between the United States and Moldova through exchange and training programs, and to further democratic and economic reforms in Moldova as participants use the experience and knowledge they gain in the U.S.
The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs in the Department of State oversees the programs worldwide, while the U.S. Embassy in Chisinau is responsible for the programs in Moldova. The U.S. Embassy directly administers several exchange programs, while others are administered by approved partner organizations.
Announcements about U.S. Government exchange opportunities for Moldovans are posted on the U.S. Embassy web page and our Facebook page. The application deadlines for each program vary throughout the year, and therefore program announcements occur at different times. However, the web pages here provide general information about the programs.
While each program has additional requirements, the basic qualifications for all programs are:
- Citizenship of the Republic of Moldova and permanent residence in the country (some programs may be open to permanent residents of the Transnistrian region regardless of citizenship.)
- Eligibility for a J-1 visa. Program participants must return to and reside in Moldova for two years after completion of their programs.
- Most programs require spoken and written proficiency in English. But please look carefully, because this requirement does not apply to all programs in all cases.
Participants for most of U.S. exchange programs will be selected through an open competition based on their individual qualifications. Each program has its own criteria for selection. Applicants are evaluated based on factors including academic excellence, leadership potential, knowledge of English, study or research objectives and projects, and preparedness for visiting or living in the United States. The programs offer equal opportunities to all applicants and do not discriminate based on race, color, sex, religion, national or ethnic origin, handicap or disability. Preference is generally given to applicants without recent or substantial experience in the United States.
Exchange programs cover the cost of round-trip international and domestic travel, visa, provide a health benefit plan, a monthly stipend, and funds for professional development for the participant.
The application and selection process for each program consist of several stages. For the academic exchange programs, for example, the first stage is submission of an on-line application. Applicants who advance to the next stage are required to attend an oral interview and may be required to demonstrate their English proficiency. Generally, the selection process takes over six months from the time on-line applications are submitted to the notification of successful candidates. Most participants begin their program and travel to the United States nearly one year after submitting the written application.
Below is the information on exchange programs sponsored by the U.S. Government in Moldova. If you have a specific question, please send an e-mail to education-moldova@state.gov
- Exchange programs currently open for applications
- Programs for Working Professionals
- Graduate Studies Programs
- Programs for Undergraduate Students
- Programs for High School Students
