Are you a South African citizen with a thirst for knowledge, a passion for personal development, and a commitment to making a difference in your community? If so, the United States Community College Initiative Program (CCIP) might be the life-changing opportunity you've been waiting for. This U.S. State Department exchange program offers a one-year non-degree academic and personal development experience at a U.S. community college.
Building a Strong Foundation
The CCIP is more than just an educational journey; it's a holistic experience that focuses on five key pillars:
- Academics: Enhance your technical skills in applied fields, strengthen your English proficiency, and gain invaluable academic insights.
- Cultural Exchange: Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of American culture and build lifelong connections.
- Service Learning: Give back to your host community through meaningful service projects.
- Internships: Gain real-world experience through internships that align with your academic and career goals.
- Leadership and Community Impact Projects: Develop leadership capabilities and work on projects that make a positive impact on your home community.
Who's Eligible?
To be eligible for the CCIP, you should:
- Be a South African citizen, national, or permanent resident qualified to hold a valid South African passport.
- Currently reside in South Africa.
- Be 18 years of age or older by July 1, 2024.
- Have successfully earned a secondary school diploma.
- You have not completed the equivalent of three years towards a U.S. bachelor's degree or higher in your field of study.
- Demonstrate commitment to your selected field of study through academic or professional experience.
- Possess a basic working knowledge of the English language.
- Have limited or no overseas study experience.
- Be able to receive a U.S. J-1 visa and meet the program conditions to maintain that status.
- Be willing and physically able to complete the program in its entirety.
- Commit to returning to your home country and using this experience to make a difference.
- Be available to start the academic exchange program in the United States in July 2024 through May or June of 2025.
The CCIP encourages diversity and inclusivity, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds, regardless of factors like race, colour, national origin, age, or disability. Persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Fields of Study
Participants in the CCIP can choose from a diverse range of fields, including:
- Agriculture
- Business Management and Administration
- Early Childhood Education
- Engineering
- Information Technology
- Media
- Social Services, Health, and Public Safety
- Tourism and Hospitality Management
- Take the First Step
Ready to embark on this incredible journey of personal and academic growth? You can access the CCIP application form here. Once you've completed the form, send it along with your academic records and transcripts to ccipsa@state.gov.