IREX Community Engagement Exchange Program 2026

To be eligible, an applicant must:-

• be aged between 21 and 27 years
• be a citizen of India currently living and working in the country at the time of application
• possess a minimum of 2 years of professional/volunteer experience in the community/civil society sector
• be currently working on a community engagement initiative in their home country (in a professional or volunteer role, showing intent to work in civil society)
• be able to begin the CEE program in 2026 in the US
• be able to receive a US J-1 visa
• be committed to returning to their home country for a minimum of 2 years after program completion, and implement a community-based project
• have proficient working knowledge of the English language

Note:-

• Special consideration can be given to individuals living in another country who have refugee status and work on their home community's behalf. Otherwise, individuals working/residing outside their home country at the time of application are ineligible to apply.
• Semifinalists must take a Duolingo English test. Finalists should effectively communicate, understand the main ideas in various writings, and interact easily with proficient speakers.
• Participating in academic, training, or research programs in the United States or other countries at the time of application will make an individual ineligible for this program.
• Individuals who have participated in an exchange visitor program sponsored or funded by the U.S. government and have not fulfilled their two-year home residency requirement by the time of application are ineligible.
• Individuals who have applied for permanent residency in the US in the past three years are ineligible.

Selected candidates will receive:-

• J-1 visa support
• Round-trip travel from home city to the US
• Monthly allowance to cover housing, meals, and other living expenses in the US
• Accident and sickness health benefits

• A duly completed application form
• TOEFL/ILETS results (valid only if achieved within the past 2 years of application)
• Transcripts of previous experience
• Transcripts of academic performance
• Documents supporting professional background

Eligible candidates can apply by following these steps:-
Step 1: Click on the 'Apply Now' button below.
Step 2: Click on the 'Register' button and fill in the required registration details (Note:- If already registered, log in using Gmail/Mobile number/Email ID).
Step 3: Navigate to ‘Apply Now’ and click it.
Step 4: Click the option to start a new application.
Step 5: Tick the boxes to agree to the given terms and click ‘Save and Continue’.
Step 6: Follow the process to confirm a working email address and set up a password.
Step 7: Complete the application by filling in the necessary information and uploading the required documentation.