In a significant blow to academic exchange and youth opportunity, the United States has brought an unexpected end to the Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD) for Pakistani students — a decision that has dashed the hopes of thousands of ambitious learners across the country. The United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) confirmed the decision through a formal announcement, stating that it was informed by the U.S. Department of State that the program will no longer be extended to Pakistani nationals.
The Global UGRAD program, which had been running successfully for the past 15 years, provided fully-funded, short-term academic and cultural exchange opportunities for undergraduate students from Pakistan to study in the U.S. The program was widely regarded as a prestigious initiative, allowing students to not only experience world-class education but also engage in meaningful cultural exchange and personal development.
Since its inception, the program impacted the lives of thousands of students, helping them enhance their academic outlook, leadership potential, and global understanding. It played a vital role in bridging people-to-people ties between the two nations and served as a platform for young Pakistanis to represent their country on international academic forums.
The sudden termination of the program has sparked disappointment among this year’s applicants who were in the process of applying or waiting for results. These students had envisioned a life-changing experience ahead, and for many, the UGRAD program was their first major exposure to international academia.
USEFP, while expressing regret over the decision, thanked all applicants and past participants for their dedication and commitment to educational excellence. The organization emphasized that while this chapter has closed, it encourages students to actively explore other international scholarships and educational exchange programs that can still support their academic goals and professional growth.
In its closing remarks, USEFP wished success to all Pakistani students in their ongoing academic journeys and reaffirmed its mission to continue supporting educational development in Pakistan through other available opportunities.