English Access Micro Scholarship Program
The English Access Micro-Scholarship Program (Access Program) is an exciting initiative of the U.S Department of state. This highly effective training program is designed to provide a significant English language learning experience to bright non-elite 13 years to 20 years for the goal of improving students’ appreciation of U.S culture and values, encouraging critical thinking and open-mindedness and improving performance in regular school classes.
The U.S. State Department’s English Access Microscholarship Program (Access) provides a foundation of English language skills to talented 13-20 year-olds from economically disadvantaged sectors through after-school classes and intensive sessions. Access gives participants English skills that may lead to better jobs and educational prospects.
Participants also gain the ability to compete for and participate in future exchanges and study in the United States. In addition to English language instruction, the program provides an American-style classroom experience using U.S. materials and emphasizing active learning. Access also fosters mutual understanding, strengthens teachers’ and students’ teaching and language skills, develops critical thinking capabilities, and conveys balanced and accurate information about the United States. Since its inception in 2004, over 100,000 students in more than 85 countries have participated in the Access Program.
The Purpose of the Access program is to provide disadvantaged youth with an opportunity to learn the English language and enhance leadership through teaching the basics of American culture and values of democratic development and civic engagement. The program benefits secondary school students from underprivileged families. The Access program must provide two years of English study, consisting of at least 180 hours of instruction per year.
