The Community Solutions Program is conducted as a merit-based open competition. After the deadline, all eligible applications will be reviewed by a selection panel. Chosen semi-finalists will be interviewed by a panel and will take the TOEFL exam or submit existing TOEFL scores. All applicants will be notified of their status by spring 2012. Applicants will be considered based on the following criteria:

• Working/volunteering on substantive community projects for non-profits, government offices, or community-based organizations; preference will be given to applicants of local organizations;
• Knowledge of and experience in one or more of the four CSP fellowship themes (Women’s Issues, Transparency & Accountability, Tolerance/Conflict Resolution, and Environmental Issues);
• Leadership experience and potential;
• Professional and program goals;
• Follow-on project idea;
• Intercultural/English language skills;
• Preference will be given to individuals with four (4) months or more academic exchange or professional training experience in the United States.