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Bureau of Educational & Cultural Affairs

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About the Bureau

The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) of the U.S. Department of State fosters mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries to promote friendly, and peaceful relations, as mandated by the Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961.

ECA accomplishes its mission through a range of programs based on the benefits of mutual understanding, international educational and cultural exchange, and leadership development. We engage youth, students, educators, artists, athletes, and rising leaders in many fields in the United States and more than 160 countries through academic, cultural, sports, and professional exchanges. Striving to reflect the diversity of the United States and global society, ECA programs, funding, and other activities encourage the involvement of American and international participants from traditionally underrepresented groups, including women, racial and ethnic minorities, and people with disabilities.

ECA exchange program alumni encompass over 1 million people around the world, including more than 50 Nobel Laureates and over 350 current and former heads of state and government.

ECA by the Numbers

Origins of ECA Exchange Participants to the United States in 2009
Sub-Saharan Africa 8,112
East Asia and Pacific 10,602
Europe and Eurasia 36,222
Near East
22,611
South Central Asia 17,706
Western Hemisphere
15,816

 

Students Traveling to and from the United States in 2009

Graphic of a map

International Exchange

  • State by State Impact

View Our Timeline

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History of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, U.S. Department of State
VIDEOS
Still image of youth soccer players.
Empowering Women and Girls Through Sports
Screen shot of an exchange participant
What is ECA?
Image of Beatriz Recinos
Hear about Beatriz Recino's experience during her UGRAD program

Institutional Award Process

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Institutional Awards Process

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