The Thomas Jefferson Scholarship Program (TJSP) 2025-26 in the USA is a prestigious initiative funded by the U.S. Department of State, aiming to foster mutual understanding between emerging leaders from North Africa and the Middle East with Americans through academic and cultural exchange. The Thomas Jefferson Scholarship Program provides opportunities for full-time, undergraduate, university/institute students from Tunisia to spend one academic year of non-degree study at a U.S. university or college. Through academic opportunities, professional engagement, and leadership development, TJSP fosters economic growth, stability, and democratic development in Tunisia by equipping a network of youth with essential skills to lead positive change in their professional fields and communities.
The program is managed by IREX, a nonprofit organization specializing in education and development programs worldwide. IREX facilitates the scholarship logistics, from university placements to ongoing support for students, and organizes various enrichment activities that enhance participants’ skills in leadership, communication, and community service. TJSP offers full scholarships for a one-year non-degree program at selected U.S. universities. The deadline to apply is Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at 5 p.m. Tunis time.
Universities/Institutions
- Institutions: Multiple accredited universities across the United States
- Ranking: Partner universities vary, offering reputable programs with diverse campus experiences.
- Programs: Non-degree programs focusing on academic study and community engagement.
- Duration: 1 academic year (two semesters).
Study Areas
The Thomas Jefferson Scholarship Program (TJSP) covers a broad range of study areas, primarily focusing on fields relevant to fostering community engagement and leadership skills, including:
- Business & Entrepreneurship: Marketing, Finance, Management
- Engineering & Technology: Software Engineering, Renewable Energy, Mechanical Engineering
- Agriculture & Environmental Studies: Sustainable Agriculture, Environmental Science
- Applied Sciences & Health: Public Health, Biology, Nutrition
- Humanities & Social Sciences: International Relations, Political Science, Sociology, Education
Scholarship Benefits
The TJSP provides a comprehensive scholarship package that includes:
- Full Tuition and Fees: All academic costs for one academic year are covered.
- Round-trip Airfare: Travel expenses to and from the U.S. are fully funded.
- Monthly Stipend: For living expenses, including accommodation, food, and other essentials.
- Health Insurance: Medical insurance coverage during the scholarship period.
- Book Allowance: Covers required textbooks and academic supplies.
- Cultural and Professional Development Activities: Opportunities to attend workshops, conferences, and local events to enhance learning and cultural understanding.
- J-1 visa support.
Benefits Not Included
- Expenses for personal entertainment, extra travel, and other non-essentials.
Scholarship Eligibilities
- Citizenship in eligible North African or Middle Eastern countries.
- Enrolled as a full-time, undergraduate, university/institute student in good academic standing at the time of application at a registered academic institution in Tunisia;
- Age: 18–25. At least 18 years old by July 1, 2025;
- High academic standing and commitment to returning home.
- Proficiency in English and no recent U.S. study experience.
- Is able to achieve a Duolingo English Test (DET) score of at least 100;
- Only semi-finalists are required to take the DET, which will be coordinated by IREX and at no cost to the semi-finalist.
- is in their second year of undergraduate education or above. Students who are in their first or final year of study at the time of application are not eligible to apply.
- Architecture students are eligible in their second, third, fourth, or fifth year of study.
- Engineering students are eligible in their second year (preparatory classes) and third and fourth year of undergraduate study.
Selection process and criteria
TJSP is conducted as a merit-based open competition. Selection panels for TJSP semi-finalists and finalists will use the following criteria to evaluate applications (not in order of importance):
- Academic excellence;
- Expressed commitment to contribute to Tunisia’s development;
- Demonstrated leadership potential and commitment to community engagement;
- Proficiency in written and spoken English;
- Flexibility and adaptability as an exchange student.
Required Documents
To apply for the Thomas Jefferson Scholarship Program (TJSP) 2025-26, applicants need the following:
- Passport Copy: Valid passport for international travel.
- Academic Transcripts: Certified copies of academic transcripts from current or previous educational institutions.
- Recommendation Letters: At least two letters from professors or employers highlighting your leadership skills and academic achievements.
- Personal Statement: A well-written statement explaining your academic goals, leadership experience, and how TJSP aligns with your career ambitions.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)/Resume: Outlining academic background, work experience, and community involvement.
- Financial Documents: Proof of financial need (if required by the program).
Application Process
The application process for TJSP involves the following steps:
- Online Application: Visit the official TJSP website and access the application portal.
- Create an Account: Register with your email and create a profile on the TJSP platform.
- Complete the Application Form: Fill in your personal, academic, and professional details, and upload all required documents.
- Personal Statement and Essays: Write and upload a compelling personal statement and responses to any specific essay questions.
- Submit the Application: Review the application for accuracy and completeness before submission.
- Selection and Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview. Final selections are based on academic merit, leadership potential, and the strength of the personal statement.
- Download the full application instructions (PDF, 178 KB).
Tips for Successful Application
- Emphasize community service and leadership experience.
- Provide a well-articulated personal statement on how TJSP aligns with your goals.
- Ensure clarity and professionalism in documents.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students on the TJSP
While the Thomas Jefferson Scholarship Program (TJSP) provides a monthly stipend to cover living costs, international students may encounter varying expenses depending on their location in the U.S. Here’s an approximate breakdown of typical monthly costs:
- Accommodation: $600 – $1,200 (shared apartment or dormitory)
- Food: $300 – $500
- Transportation: $50 – $100 (local public transport)
- Personal Expenses: $100 – $200 (hygiene items, entertainment)
- Books & Supplies: $50 – $100
On average, monthly living expenses range between $1,000 – $1,500, depending on lifestyle and the city’s cost of living.
Why Choose TJSP?
- Offers an enriching experience of U.S. education and culture while building leadership and professional skills.
FAQS:
Do I need health insurance?Yes, but TJSP provides health insurance coverage for participants during their stay in the U.S.
Do I need to take an English proficiency test (like TOEFL or IELTS)?
Yes, proof of English proficiency is typically required, as students must be able to study and participate fully in an English-speaking academic environment.
Is the TJSP a degree program?
No, TJSP is a non-degree exchange program designed to provide an academic experience in the U.S. for one academic year. Participants return to their home country afterward.
Is there an application fee?
No, applying to TJSP is free of charge.
Can I apply to a specific university through TJSP?
No, applicants cannot choose a specific university. Partner institutions are selected by the program to match participants with a suitable academic environment.