Benjamin Franklin Transatlantic Fellowships Europe Young Leaders

Students across Europe now have a rare chance to participate in one of the most competitive and prestigious fully funded youth exchange programs in the United States. The Benjamin Franklin Transatlantic Fellowship 2026 has officially opened applications in multiple European countries, inviting high-potential high school students to experience a four-week fully funded leadership and diplomacy program at Purdue University in the United States.

This fully sponsored summer fellowship is designed for ambitious young leaders aged 16-18 who want to explore diplomacy, media, civic leadership, and transatlantic cooperation while engaging with American communities and global peers. Selected participants will spend four intensive weeks in the U.S. attending workshops, seminars, leadership activities, and cultural exchanges while building international networks that last a lifetime.

Hosted at Purdue University from June 23 to July 21, 2026, the fellowship offers a unique academic and cultural immersion into U.S. society, leadership development, and democratic values. Only one or two participants are typically selected from each country, making this an elite and highly competitive opportunity for students ready to represent their nation globally.

The Benjamin Franklin Transatlantic Fellowship is a fully funded leadership exchange program backed by the U.S. Department of State and implemented by Purdue University. Selected participants receive complete financial sponsorship and access to an intensive academic and cultural experience in the United States.

Fellows participate in structured modules covering international relations, media and communication, civic education, and service leadership. In addition to academic sessions, students engage in community service, debates, cultural exchange events, and meetings with policymakers, scholars, and journalists.

• Full tuition and program participation costs covered
• Round-trip international airfare to the United States
• Accommodation and meals throughout the program
• J-1 visa support and processing
• Domestic travel within the U.S. for educational visits
• Workshops on diplomacy, leadership, and civic engagement
• Cultural activities, site visits, and homestays with American families
• Health coverage under U.S. exchange participant program
• Opportunity to implement community leadership projects after returning home
• Global alumni network and leadership recognition

This fellowship not only funds travel and study but also builds future leaders capable of shaping communities, policy conversations, and international cooperation.

Applicants must meet the following standard requirements to qualify for the fully funded Benjamin Franklin Transatlantic Fellowship 2026 across participating countries:

Age Requirement:
Must be born between June 23, 2008 and June 23, 2010 (16–18 years old at program start)

Citizenship:
Must be citizen or legal resident of the participating country

Education Status:
Must be enrolled in high school and returning to studies after program

English Proficiency:
Strong spoken and written English required

Academic Performance:
Strong academic record and achievements

Leadership:
Demonstrated leadership potential and community involvement

U.S. Travel

Experience:

Preference for applicants with little or no prior U.S. travel

Personal Qualities:
Mature, open-minded, responsible and globally curious

Program Commitment:
Must participate fully in intensive 4-week program and follow-up activities

Check your country’s official application page and submit before the listed deadline to secure your chance at the fully funded Benjamin Franklin Transatlantic Fellowship 2026:

Students who meet the age and academic requirements should prepare their applications quickly, as each country typically selects only one primary candidate. This fellowship is not just a summer program — it is a leadership launchpad for students aiming to build global careers in diplomacy, policy, media, or public service.