03/09/2013
Dear Access students, although in the summer camp we mentioned to you the details of the 2014-15 FLEX Program recruitment announcement, I am posting it again for your further attention:
Future Leaders Exchange Program
The Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) Program is a US government-sponsored program for secondary school students from 10 of the republics of the former Soviet Union (Eurasia) including Armenia. The program provides full scholarship funding for students to travel to the United States, attend a US high school for a full academic year (July/August to May/June), and live with a US host family.
FLEX was established in 1992 as the centerpiece of the Eurasian Secondary School Initiative under the FREEDOM Support Act. Funding is provided by the US Department of State. The program was created from the conviction of former Senator Bill Bradley that the best way to ensure long lasting peace and understanding between the United States and the countries of Eurasia is to enable young people from these countries to learn about the U.S. and Americans firsthand. The primary goal of FLEX is improving mutual understanding between our countries and allowing young citizens of Eurasia to have the opportunity to observe and experience our system of government. Since the program’s inception in 1993, over 17,000 young citizens from Eurasia have participated in FLEX and have returned to their countries imbued with a new enthusiasm and desire to help others and share their newly acquired experiences and knowledge for the betterment of their home communities and countries.
Finalists are chosen through a multi-layered, merit-based selection process that draws more than 40,000 candidates annually. Participation in the selection process is open to all students that meet the eligibility requirements, which include age limitations, satisfactory academic standing, English language training, Armenian citizenship, and US visa eligibility requirements. Selection is based on the evaluation of multiple factors that contribute to a positive exchange experience and provide evidence of leadership potential. All finalists undergo an extensive orientation to life in America, and pursue a full course of study at a US high school. Following completion of their program students must return to their homes in Armenia, where FLEX alumni association sponsor activities throughout the year.
Who is Eligible to Apply to FLEX Program?
In order to apply for FLEX program in September 2013, eligible applicants for the 2014-2015 program year must:
- be born between March 15, 1996 and July 15, 1999 AND
- be currently enrolled in a secondary school in the 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th grades*
- have an academic standing of “good” or better
- have previously studied English and demonstrated English Language ability at the time of registration
- meet U.S. visa eligibility requirements
- be a citizen of Armenia and be able to receive a passport in Armenia
The age/grade eligibility requirements for students with DISABILITIES are the following:
students must be born between March 1, 1996 and July 15, 1999
they must be studying in 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th grades*
*Students in 12th form must be exempt from military service.
Students who are in the 8th (students with disabilities only), 9th, or 10th form when they apply who become finalists will return to Armenia and continue on in the 10th, 11th, or 12th form, respectively.
Students who are in the 11th form when they apply who become finalists will return to Armenia and study in the 12th form, as they may not participate in the school exit/university entrance exams upon their return to Armenia.
Students who are in the 12th form when they apply who become finalists will participate in the school exit/university entrance exams prior their departure to the U.S. and must request that their scores be retained for use upon their return to Armenia in accordance with the Republic of Armenia decision number 597 of April 26, 2012 (point 43 and point 70–sub–points 8,9, and 10) in order that they may enter university immediately upon their return to Armenia.
Students are ineligible to apply if:
- they do not meet the above criteria
- they have stayed in the U.S. for three (3) months or more during the past five (5) years
- their family has applied, is applying, or has made plans to emigrate to the United States.
Applicants MUST submit the following for registration:
- Birth certificate or passport (original)
- 1 photo /size 3×4/
- a pen
Testing Schedule
Registration and testing for the competition for the FLEx 2014-2015 program year will take place as follows:
September 09, 09:00, Hrazdan , School Number 13, Center
September 09, 09:30, Ijevan, School Number 4, Nalbandyan St. 1
September 10, 09:00, Vanadzor, School Number 2, Heratsi St. 17
September 10, 09:30, Martuni, School Number 1, Komitas St. 25
September 10, 16:00, Yeghegnadzor, Youth Center, Momiki St. 1
September 11, 14:00, Sisian, School Number 3, Miasnikyan St.
September 11, 10:00, Students with Disabilities ONLY, American councils Armenia, Imperium Plaza Business Center, 4/7 Amiryan St., 5th Floor
September 12, 09:00. Talin, Talin High School, Gorky St. 13
September 12, 09:00, Goris, Branch of National Institute of Education, Gusan Ashoti St. 32
September 13, 09:00, Gyumri, School Number 20, Thatcher St. 1
September 13, 09:00, Kapan, School Number 2, M. Stepanyan St. 5
September 16, 09:30, Yerevan and Other Marzes, TBA
Competition
The competition consists of three rounds.
Round 1: English Language Test
Students meeting the age and grade criteria take a 15 minute, 16-question, multiple-choice English language test held in testing centers throughout the country. The results of Round 1 are announced on a posted list or by internet the same or next day and selected students are invited to participate in Round 2.
Round 2: Essay
Students selected to participate in Round 2 write three in-class essays (in English) in response to specific questions. The results of Round 2 are announced by telephone after 3 weeks. All Round 2 participants will be notified of outcomes, whether they are positive or negative. Selected students will be invited to participate in Round 3.
Round 3: English Language Test, Essay, Group Activity, Interview, and Application
Students selected to participate in Round 3 take a standardized multiple-choice English test, write two in-class essays (in English) in response to specific questions, participate in a group activity, and take part in a one-on-one interview. In addition, students must complete and submit to the American Councils Armenia Yerevan office (within 2 weeks) an application form. The results of Round 3 are announced by telephone approximately 6 months later. All Round 3 participants will be notified of outcomes, whether they are positive or negative.
Selection Process
American Councils organizes and trains approximately 150 volunteer evaluators – professionals in education and international relations in the United States. They select program finalists and alternates. Selection is based on merit as evidenced in a comprehensive application; teacher reference; and demonstrated preparedness for a year-long exchange experience. The selection process is completed in spring and all applicants receive notification of their status by mid-April.
For more information, contact American Councils:
Address: Imperium Plaza Business Center
4/7 Amiryan Street
5th Floor
Yerevan 0010
Armenia
Tel. (374 10) 54 40 15, 54 40 12, 56 00 45
Էլ. փոստ. [email protected]
