Program Eligibility

SPARK is open to students in any field of study and does not discriminate based on race, color, gender, sexual orientation, religion, ethnicity, or disability. SPARK supports participation of students with disabilities and will work with host institutions to provide an accessible living and learning environment.  

To be eligible for SPARK, students must be: 

  • A citizen of the Russian Federation currently residing in Russia

  • Undergraduate students enrolled in a Russian university who have at least one academic year to complete after the summer semester 

  • Born between the ages of August 1, 2003 to June 1, 2007. The age range for students with disabilities is August 1, 2002 to June 1, 2007

  • Eligible to receive an internationally recognized passport of the Russian Federation 

  • Able to clearly communicate in English 

  • Eligible to receive a U.S. student exchange visa 

  • Committed to returning to Russia after completion of the summer semester  

  • Able to travel to the United States in late May or June 2025 

The following individuals are NOT eligible to participate in SPARK:  

  • U.S. citizens and permanent residents    

  • Students who are completing their undergraduate program in June 2025 or earlier

  • High school students  

  • Students living for more than three months in the U.S. in the past five years 

Watch the SPARK Information Webinar

Application Process

To apply, students should:  

  • Create a profile on the online platform

  • Submit the fully completed online application by the deadline, November 17, 11:59pm MSK

  • Shortlisted candidates will participate in virtual interviews in January 2025 

  • Semifinalists will take an English proficiency test in February 2025 

  • Finalists are selected by March 2025  

Applications should include: 

  • Resume in English, no more than one page;

  • Copy of most recent academic transcript in Russian; If you do not have the transcript ready by the deadline, you can submit the application and submit the transcript by November 30th by email. In this case, you can upload a Word document under the Transcript field with a note that the transcript will be submitted later.

  • Translated copy of most recent academic transcript in English;

  • Essay: A 500-word essay answering, “What part of American society and culture are you most interested to learn about while in the program, and how will you accomplish this?;

  • Video Essay: A recorded video essay between 1 to 2 minutes (not exceeding 2 minutes total) answering the question, “Tell us about one to two personal or professional accomplishments and how SPARK can help you grow as an individual and expand your skills;

  • Copy of the internationally recognized passport information page (Those who do not have an international passport may upload a domestic one).

Incomplete applications will not be considered. Please note that all information included in your application is secure and will not be shared with any third-parties.

For any additional questions, please visit the FAQ page, or reach out to us at info@sparkinamerica.org.

Please note that the student application is now closed.