Access is a two – year global scholarship program supported by the U.S. Department of State that provides a foundation of English language skills. The program targets ninth grade secondary school students from underprivileged families to participate in the program through After-School classes with Enhancement Activities, and Intensive Sessions.

Program Goals:
The goal of the Access Program is to prepare students who have a minimal knowledge of English, with effective communication and critical thinking skills through meaningful interaction, cooperative learning strategies, and real-life contexts. We hope these skills will lead to better jobs, educational opportunities, and the ability to participate in traditional ECA exchange programs (scholarships for high school or university-level study in the U.S.) as well as other non-governmental programs.

All English Access Microscholarship students benefit from the Program because improved English language skills at any level enhance students’ employment prospects, open a window to a broader world of ideas and opportunities, and empower them to better contribute to the socio-economic success of their families, towns and countries.

Applications for the program should consist of information on the English language teaching as well as out-of-classroom activities and enhancement elements.  Examples of enhancement elements related to English language and American culture include but are not limited to activities such as drama, computers, dance, art, music, games, sports, local trips, special cultural projects such as the 4th of July, and/or developing leadership skills, building the spirit of team work, social responsibility, and tolerance events.  English Access Microscholarship Program summer intensive sessions can be an important activity to supplement and/or initiate and/or conclude a student’s two-year English language programming.

Selection of In-Country Educational Service Providers:
The U.S. Department of State implements the Access program with the assistance of in-country educational providers. In-country educational providers should read through this handbook and speak with U.S. Embassy staff to plan an effective and efficient Access program. All in-country educational service providers must submit completed narrative and budget proposals that meet program requirements to the U.S. Embassy for approval.

Please contact the Public Affairs Section for more information about the program: EnglishProgramsDushanbe@state.gov