Funded by the US Department of State and implemented by IREX, the six-week exchange offers emerging community leaders professional placements, leadership training and an opportunity to develop community-based initiatives. Applications close on November 18, 2026.

Young professionals and community organisers from selected countries can apply for the 2027 Community Engagement Exchange (CEE) Program, a fully funded initiative designed to strengthen civic leadership and encourage community-driven change.

Sponsored by the US Department of State and implemented by IREX, the programme combines professional development, practical experience and international networking. Selected participants will travel to the United States for a six-week exchange, including a four-week placement with a US-based host organisation.

The fellowship focuses on issues such as freedom of expression, civic participation, constructive dialogue and collaborative approaches to local challenges. Participants will learn from American organisations and community leaders, while gaining practical insights into how civic initiatives are developed and implemented.

After completing the exchange, fellows are expected to return to their home countries and put their learning into practice through a community-based initiative.

Financial benefits

The programme provides financial assistance to selected participants, including:

• J-1 visa support
• Round-trip international airfare between the participant’s home country and the United States
• A monthly allowance to cover accommodation, meals and living expenses
• Accident and sickness health benefits during the programme

The support is intended to cover major expenses associated with participating in the US exchange.

Who can apply?

Applicants must be between 22 and 27 years old on the application deadline. They should also have at least two years of relevant professional, volunteer, academic or community-based experience.

Candidates are expected to demonstrate a commitment to civic engagement, freedom of expression, respectful dialogue and community-level problem-solving. They must be living and working in their home country at the time of application, subject to programme-specific exceptions.

Applicants should have strong spoken and written English skills and be available for the full exchange period in 2027. Those selected must also be willing to return to their home countries and develop a community initiative using the knowledge and experience gained during the fellowship.

Eligible countries

According to the supplied programme announcement, applicants from the following countries are eligible:

• Czechia
• France
• Germany
• Hungary
• Ireland
• Poland
• Romania
• Slovakia
• Ukraine
• United Kingdom

Application deadline and process

The deadline to apply for the Community Engagement Exchange Program 2027 is November 18, 2026.

Interested candidates should visit the official CEE Program website, review the country-specific eligibility requirements and complete the online application before the closing date. Applicants should ensure that their professional or community experience and proposed areas of engagement are clearly presented in their applications.