End of an era: US closes Global UGRAD Exchange Program for Pakistan after 15 years

In a move that has left many aspiring students disappointed, the United States has officially ended the Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD) for Pakistan, bringing a celebrated chapter of academic and cultural exchange to a close after 15 impactful years.

The announcement was made by the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP), which stated that the U.S. Department of State has discontinued the program.

The decision means that the Global UGRAD-Pakistan Program will no longer be offered, marking a significant shift in educational diplomacy between the two nations.

For over a decade, Global UGRAD served as a life-changing gateway for thousands of Pakistani undergraduate students to study in the United States for a semester. The program not only supported academic growth but also promoted cultural understanding, leadership development, and people-to-people connections across borders.

“We understand that this news may be disappointing, especially for those who applied this year and were looking forward to this opportunity,” USEFP stated. “We are immensely proud of the impact this program has had on its participants and the communities they have touched.”

While no specific reason has been cited for the program’s closure, USEFP has encouraged students to seek other exchange and scholarship opportunities that align with their academic and professional aspirations.

This development comes as a setback for Pakistan’s youth, many of whom saw the UGRAD program as a rare and valuable chance to gain international exposure, enhance their education, and serve as ambassadors of Pakistan abroad.

USEFP concluded the announcement with well-wishes for the academic and professional journeys of all past and potential participants, urging continued pursuit of excellence despite this closure.

For alternative opportunities, students are directed to visit www.usefp.org.