Background
The United States of America and Lithuania enjoy a close, productive, and cooperative relationship based on common interests and the shared values of freedom and democracy.  Over the 20 years since Lithuania regained its independence, our two countries have strengthened the Euro-Atlantic alliance.  In this new era of our bilateral relationship, with Lithuania as a full member of NATO and the EU and a valued partner of the U.S., the ExCEL program seeks to enhance our relations by promoting strong ties between a new generation of young Lithuanian and American leaders through scholarships to cover one year of academic study in the U.S.

Program Components

• Recruitment and selection: Competitive recruitment of high school students with an applicant to finalist ratio of no less than 8:1.
• Pre-program preparation: Students will participate in a pre-program workshop to prepare them for their U.S. experience in terms of expectations and problem-solving skills.
• U.S. placement: All students will be placed in U.S. high schools and with well selected families. All students will be supported by trained local coordinators and American Councils staff throughout their year in the U.S.
• On-program workshops and enhancement activities: Each student will have access to a small fund to support their active participation in school and community activities that will support their growth as leaders. All students will be required to perform 30 hours of community service during their exchange year.
• Alumni programming: After students return home, American Councils will work with students to continue their experience through activities in Lithuania. These activities will be alumni-led and will be oriented on community service, civil society, and professional development.

Cost
The cost per participant is $12,500 for the 2010-11 academic year. This includes the components listed above, as well as a monthly stipend for students, insurance, and travel.  We seek interested donors to support this program.

Administered By
American Councils for International Education

American Councils advances scholarly research and cross-border learning through the design and implementation of educational programs that are well-grounded in key world languages, cultures, and regions. The organization contributes to the creation of new knowledge, broader professional perspectives, and personal and intellectual growth through international training, academic exchange, and collaboration in educational development. With a presence in the U.S., Russia, and Eurasia for nearly four decades, in addition to representation in over 30 countries across Asia, the Middle East, and Southeastern Europe, American Councils strives to expand dialogue among students, scholars, educators, and professionals for the advancement of learning and mutual respect in diverse communities and societies. Since 1976, American Councils has successfully coordinated and managed academic and cultural exchange programs between Eurasia and the U.S. American Councils administers the FLEX program in Eurasia and ASMYLE and YES programs in South East Europe.  Additional information can be found at:  http://www.americancouncils.org/.

About the Program -sponsorship opportunities (*.doc, 406,9 Kb); Lithuanian Proposal (*.pdf, 389,92 Kb).

On July 21st, 2010, U.S. Embassy Awards Scholarships to Four Lithuanian Students (*.pdf, 472,15 Kb).

© Information and photos by U.S. Embassy Vilnius