Educational and Cultural Exchange Programs

Current understanding

State Department-funded international exchange programs — notably the Fulbright Program — administered by non-profit implementing partners such as the Institute of International Education (IIE). These programs support student, scholar, and professional exchanges between the United States and partner countries as a form of public diplomacy and soft-power engagement.

Evidence log

• 2025-12-24 — State · INSTITUTE OF INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION INC — $54.8M (USA): FY2026: State Department obligated $54.8M to the Institute of International Education (IIE) to support the Fulbright Student Program, pending availability of funds. (novelty: 3)
• 2018-09-30 — USAID · AMERICAN UNIVERSITY OF BEIRUT — $44.0M (LBN): Noted for scope contrast: USAID obligated $44.0M to the American University of Beirut for the Higher Education Scholarships Program (HES) in Lebanon — a development-assistance scholarship vehicle distinct from State Department ECA exchanges (see usaid-higher-education-scholarships). (novelty: 3)
• 2024-01-08 — State · MERIDIAN INTERNATIONAL CENTER — $45.4M (USA): FY2024: State Department obligated $45.4M to Meridian International Center to implement the International Visitors Leadership Program (IVLP), with work performed in the United States. (novelty: 3)

Open questions

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