IREX Community Engagement Exchange Program 2026

IREX Community Engagement Exchange Program 2026 is an opportunity provided by the International Research & Exchanges Board (IREX)* for emerging civil society and community leaders. It aims to enable civil society leaders to harness the power of networks, relationships, and information for the public good. Selected candidates will receive a monthly allowance and other benefits.

*IREX works with partners in more than 100 countries in four areas essential to progress: empowering youth, cultivating leaders, strengthening institutions, and extending access to quality education and information.

Source: International Research & Exchanges Board

The International Research & Exchanges Board is offering this opportunity.

To be eligible, an applicant must:-

• be aged between 21 and 27 years
• be a citizen of India currently living and working in the country at the time of application
• possess a minimum of 2 years of professional/volunteer experience in the community/civil society sector
• be currently working on a community engagement initiative in their home country (in a professional or volunteer role, showing intent to work in civil society)
• be able to begin the CEE program in 2026 in the US
• be able to receive a US J-1 visa
• be committed to returning to their home country for a minimum of 2 years after program completion, and implement a community-based project
• have proficient working knowledge of the English language

Note:-

• Special consideration can be given to individuals living in another country who have refugee status and work on their home community's behalf. Otherwise, individuals working/residing outside their home country at the time of application are ineligible to apply.
• Semifinalists must take a Duolingo English test. Finalists should effectively communicate, understand the main ideas in various writings, and interact easily with proficient speakers.
• Participating in academic, training, or research programs in the United States or other countries at the time of application will make an individual ineligible for this program.
• Individuals who have participated in an exchange visitor program sponsored or funded by the U.S. government and have not fulfilled their two-year home residency requirement by the time of application are ineligible.
• Individuals who have applied for permanent residency in the US in the past three years are ineligible.

Selected candidates will receive:-

• J-1 visa support
• Round-trip travel from home city to the US
• Monthly allowance to cover housing, meals, and other living expenses in the US
• Accident and sickness health benefits

Eligible candidates can apply by following these steps:-
Step 1: Click on the 'Apply Now' button below.
Step 2: Click on the 'Register' button and fill in the required registration details (Note:- If already registered, log in using Gmail/Mobile number/Email ID).
Step 3: Navigate to ‘Apply Now’ and click it.
Step 4: Click the option to start a new application.
Step 5: Tick the boxes to agree to the given terms and click ‘Save and Continue’.
Step 6: Follow the process to confirm a working email address and set up a password.
Step 7: Complete the application by filling in the necessary information and uploading the required documentation.

• A duly completed application form
• TOEFL/ILETS results (valid only if achieved within the past 2 years of application)
• Transcripts of previous experience
• Transcripts of academic performance
• Documents supporting professional background

Candidates will be selected based on experience and fulfilment of the eligibility criteria.

Question: Who is offering this opportunity?
Answer: The International Research & Exchanges Board is offering this opportunity.

Question: Are accommodations provided under this opportunity?
Answer: No, only financial assistance for housing is provided.

Question: Can applicants outside the age limit apply?
Answer: No, only applicants within the age limit are eligible to apply.

Question: Are university students eligible to apply?
Answer: As long as they meet the eligibility criteria, they can apply.

Question: What is the mode of application?
Answer: The application is online through the official website.