US-MEPI Tomorrow’s Leaders Scholarship 2027–2028: Eligibility, Benefits, Deadline and How to Apply

Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI), the programme combines university education with leadership development, professional training, and community engagement.

Selected students pursue bachelor’s degrees at the American University of Beirut (AUB) or the Lebanese American University (LAU) in Lebanon. Both institutions offer American-style higher education, while the scholarship provides substantial financial and academic support.

The programme is particularly valuable for students who have demonstrated academic ability, leadership potential, and a commitment to contributing positively to their communities.

Applications for the 2027–2028 academic year are open, with a published deadline of 18 November 2026. Successful applicants are expected to begin their studies in August 2027.

This guide explains the scholarship benefits, eligible countries, academic requirements, available degree programmes, application process, and practical steps applicants can take to improve their chances of selection.

US-MEPI Tomorrow’s Leaders Scholarship 2027–2028 Overview

Unlike scholarships that focus exclusively on university fees, Tomorrow’s Leaders incorporates leadership development into the student experience. Participants are encouraged to develop practical skills, engage with communities, and prepare for future professional responsibilities.

The programme also connects graduates with an alumni network of more than 1,900 former participants.

What Does the Tomorrow’s Leaders Scholarship Cover?

The Tomorrow’s Leaders Program offers extensive financial support to selected undergraduate students. This reduces many of the costs associated with studying abroad and allows scholars to concentrate on their academic and professional development.

The scholarship does not mean that all recipients will study in the United States. The degree programmes are hosted in Lebanon. However, eligible undergraduate participants may have the opportunity to apply for a semester abroad at a U.S. university.

Eligible Countries for the Tomorrow’s Leaders Scholarship 2027–2028

The scholarship is restricted to citizens of designated countries and territories in the Middle East and North Africa.

Palestinian students originally from Gaza who currently reside legally in a third country may apply, provided they satisfy the other eligibility requirements. The programme explains that current travel restrictions prevent it from guaranteeing that applicants residing in Gaza can leave in time for the August 2027 start.

Citizens of countries outside the programme’s designated eligibility list are not eligible solely because they live in the MENA region.

In addition, U.S. citizens and U.S. lawful permanent residents cannot apply, even if they hold another eligible nationality.

Undergraduate Eligibility Requirements

Nationality is only the first eligibility condition. Applicants must also satisfy requirements relating to their secondary-school education, academic performance, English proficiency, and readiness to begin university in August 2027.

1. Secondary-school graduation requirements

Most applicants must be either current high school seniors or students who graduated from secondary school in 2026.

However, the programme makes an exception for certain applicants who completed secondary school in 2025.

Students currently attending university may still submit an application, but partner institutions evaluate these circumstances individually. Such applicants should provide their university transcripts and explain why they want to transition to the Tomorrow’s Leaders programme.

2. Academic performance

The programme expects applicants to have strong academic credentials.

According to its official guidance, applicants should generally have academic results of approximately 80% or better, although the universities determine admission standards.

Academic performance is important because successful candidates must be capable of completing demanding undergraduate programmes.

However, grades are not the only selection factor. Applicants are also assessed on their leadership potential, maturity, extracurricular participation, and ability to contribute to their communities.

Once enrolled, Tomorrow’s Leaders scholars are expected to maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

3. English-language proficiency

English proficiency is essential because the partner universities deliver their programmes in English.

An important advantage is that applicants do not need to pay for a TOEFL or IELTS examination before submitting their initial application.

Instead, all applicants must complete a free online English assessment provided by Arizona State University (ASU) during the application process.

Shortlisted finalists will subsequently be required to demonstrate their English proficiency through TOEFL or IELTS testing. The programme covers the testing costs for shortlisted finalists.

Applicants who already have valid TOEFL or IELTS results may submit them during the initial application.

For TOEFL iBT, the programme states a minimum score of 80 on the former 0–120 scale or 4.0 on the newer 1–6 scale.

Applicants should understand that passing the initial English assessment does not automatically guarantee admission. They must eventually satisfy the language requirements of their assigned university.

4. Leadership potential and personal qualities

Tomorrow’s Leaders is more than a traditional academic scholarship. It aims to identify young people who can become effective leaders and decision-makers.

Therefore, applicants should demonstrate qualities such as initiative, responsibility, adaptability, maturity, and commitment to community improvement.

Leadership does not necessarily require holding a prestigious position.

For example, a student who organised a school tutoring group, coordinated a community-cleaning initiative, supported a local charity, or helped classmates overcome academic challenges may have relevant leadership experience.

The important consideration is whether the applicant can explain what they did, why it mattered, and what they learned.

Participating Universities and Available Undergraduate Courses

Tomorrow’s Leaders students study at two American-style universities in Lebanon. Both institutions offer internationally orientated education, but their available scholarship programmes differ.

Applicants should select an academic field that genuinely matches their interests and qualifications.

American University of Beirut (AUB)

The American University of Beirut is one of the programme’s two participating institutions.

The available undergraduate programmes include:

These programmes provide opportunities for students interested in science, business, economics, technology, mathematics, agriculture, and related disciplines.

For example, a student interested in economic development may consider economics or business administration. Meanwhile, an applicant interested in computing could explore computer science or data science.

Lebanese American University (LAU)

The Lebanese American University offers several undergraduate options, including business specialisations and science-related degrees.

Applicants should note that medical school is not an eligible programme.

Furthermore, students cannot assume that any degree offered by AUB or LAU is available under the scholarship. Only the approved fields of study listed by Tomorrow’s Leaders are eligible.

Can Applicants Choose Their Preferred University?

Applicants may indicate their preferred university during the application process.

However, they must be willing to attend either institution. Final placement depends on university admission requirements and the programme’s selection decisions.

Therefore, candidates should research both universities before applying.

Required Documents for the Tomorrow’s Leaders Scholarship

Preparing documents early is one of the most practical ways to avoid application problems.

The official application guidance identifies academic records, extracurricular documentation, recommendations, and an English assessment among the application requirements.

Applicants without a valid passport can initially apply using a national identification card. However, shortlisted candidates may be instructed to obtain a passport.

The programme’s application system sends recommendation requests directly to the designated recommenders. Applicants should therefore provide accurate contact details and notify their recommenders early.

How to Prepare Strong Academic Documents

Students should ensure that their academic records are legible and complete.

Where a transcript contains several pages, all relevant pages should be included. Applicants should also check that their names, dates, and school information are consistent across documents.

If records are issued in Arabic or another language, the programme requires an English translation.

Applicants should not submit altered grades, fabricated certificates, or misleading extracurricular evidence. Inconsistencies can damage the credibility of an otherwise strong application.

How to Apply for the US-MEPI Tomorrow’s Leaders Scholarship 2027–2028

The application process is completed online through the official Tomorrow’s Leaders application system.

Applicants do not need to submit separate undergraduate admission applications to AUB or LAU.

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

Before opening the application, check your nationality, graduation year, academic performance, and availability to begin university in August 2027.

Pay particular attention to the high-school graduation requirements, because these differ for some eligible countries.

Step 2: Review the Available Degree Programmes

Examine the undergraduate courses offered at AUB and LAU.

Choose a field that matches your academic preparation, interests, and future career plans.

Applicants should avoid selecting a programme solely because it appears prestigious. A convincing application should demonstrate genuine academic interest.

Step 3: Access the Official Application Portal

Visit the official Tomorrow’s Leaders website and select the application option for the 2027–2028 academic year.

Create your application account using an email address that you regularly check.

Use the same email address when registering for the required ASU English assessment.

Step 4: Complete the Online Application

Provide accurate personal, educational, and other information requested by the application system.

Where the application asks about leadership or extracurricular experience, explain your involvement clearly.

Describe the activities you participated in, your responsibilities, and the outcomes where possible.

Step 5: Upload Your Academic and Supporting Documents

Upload the required school transcripts, certificates, translations, and evidence of extracurricular activities.

Check each document before submission to ensure that it is readable and corresponds to the correct upload category.

Step 6: Complete the ASU English Assessment

Follow the instructions provided within the application portal to complete the free online English assessment.

Do not assume that TOEFL or IELTS results are compulsory at the initial application stage.

However, applicants should begin improving their English skills early because shortlisted candidates will later undergo additional testing.

Step 7: Arrange Your Recommendations

Provide the details of two suitable recommenders through the application system.

Choose people who know your academic abilities, character, or leadership experience well enough to provide meaningful evaluations.

Contact them before entering their details so they understand the programme and can respond promptly.

Step 8: Review and Submit Your Application

Before submitting, check all personal details, educational information, uploaded documents, and required sections.

Make sure the application is complete and submitted before 18 November 2026.

After submission, monitor your email regularly for communication about interviews, testing, or additional requirements.

Tomorrow’s Leaders Scholarship 2027–2028 Application Timeline

The selection process continues for several months after the application deadline.

Candidates invited to interview should be prepared to discuss their academic interests, leadership experience, community involvement, and reasons for applying.

The interview process may involve representatives of FHI 360, U.S. Embassy personnel, and Tomorrow’s Leaders alumni.

Applicants progressing beyond the interview stage may also be supported in completing TOEFL and SAT testing.

Final admission offers depend on the scholarship selection process and the admission requirements of the participating universities.

How to Prepare a Competitive Tomorrow’s Leaders Scholarship Application

Meeting the minimum requirements is important, but it does not guarantee selection.

The scholarship looks for students who can succeed academically and contribute meaningfully to society. Therefore, applicants should present a clear and credible picture of their achievements, interests, and future ambitions.

Demonstrate Leadership Through Real Examples

A strong application should explain what the applicant has actually done rather than relying on general claims.

For example, instead of simply stating that you are passionate about community development, describe a project you participated in.

Explain the problem, your contribution, the challenges encountered, and the results.

Even small initiatives can demonstrate valuable leadership qualities when presented with specific evidence.

Explain Your Academic and Career Goals

Applicants should be able to explain why they want to study their selected subject.

For example, a student applying for Economics might discuss an interest in unemployment, economic development, or financial inclusion.

A Computer Science applicant could explain how technology might help address challenges in education, healthcare, or public services.

The goal is to establish a convincing connection between previous interests, the intended degree, and future contributions.

Prepare Carefully for the Interview

Candidates invited to interview should practise explaining their experiences naturally.

They should be prepared to discuss why they selected their academic field, what leadership means to them, and how they would contribute to their communities after graduation.

Applicants should avoid memorizing exaggerated answers. Clear explanations supported by genuine examples are more persuasive.

Strengthen Your English Skills Early

English proficiency is essential for academic success at AUB and LAU.

Applicants can improve their preparation by reading English-language articles, practising academic writing, listening to educational podcasts, and speaking English regularly.

Those shortlisted for further assessment should also familiarize themselves with the format of the relevant standardized examinations.

Common Application Mistakes to Avoid

Several avoidable mistakes can weaken an otherwise promising scholarship application.

First, applicants sometimes misunderstand the nationality restrictions. The programme is not open to every international student or every African nationality.

Second, some applicants overlook the graduation-year requirements. Candidates who completed secondary school too early may be ineligible even if their grades are excellent.

Third, incomplete transcripts and missing translations can delay application review.

Another common problem is submitting generic descriptions of leadership experience. Applicants should provide specific examples rather than relying on statements that could apply to anyone.

Finally, candidates should not wait until the final day to complete the application. Recommendation requests, document uploads, and the English assessment may require additional time.

Other Undergraduate Scholarships International Students Can Consider

The Tomorrow’s Leaders Program is restricted to specific MENA countries and territories. However, students from other countries can explore undergraduate scholarships with broader international eligibility.

For example, the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship 2027 at the University of Toronto offers comprehensive four-year funding for selected international undergraduate students in Canada. It requires secondary-school nomination and has a competitive selection process.

Another option is the University of British Columbia International Scholars Program 2027, which supports academically outstanding international students who demonstrate significant financial need. Applicants should consult the university’s specific scholarship requirements and deadlines before applying.

These scholarships differ in their eligibility rules, application procedures, funding arrangements, and study destinations. Students should compare them carefully rather than assume that all undergraduate scholarships follow the same process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the US-MEPI Tomorrow’s Leaders Scholarship 2027–2028 fully funded?

Yes. The programme covers major educational and living expenses, including tuition, housing, health insurance, a stipend during programme activities, textbooks, travel support, and other benefits.

Can students from Cameroon, Nigeria, or Ghana apply?

No. These countries are not included in the programme’s designated eligibility list. Applicants must hold citizenship from an eligible MENA country or territory and meet the other conditions.

Where will selected students study?

Successful applicants pursue undergraduate degrees at the American University of Beirut or the Lebanese American University in Lebanon.

Does the scholarship allow students to study in the United States?

Eligible undergraduate scholars may apply for a semester abroad in the United States. However, the main degree programme is completed at a partner university in Lebanon, and a U.S. exchange semester is not guaranteed.

Is IELTS or TOEFL compulsory when applying?

No. Applicants initially complete a free online English assessment provided by Arizona State University. Shortlisted finalists are subsequently required to demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL or IELTS testing.

Is the SAT required?

Applicants do not need to assume that SAT results must accompany the initial scholarship application. The programme’s selection timeline provides for standardized testing after the interview stage for candidates who progress further.

Can someone who graduated from high school in 2025 apply?

Yes, but only under the stated exceptions for applicants from Iraq, Libya, Syria, the West Bank, qualifying Palestinian applicants residing in third countries, and Yemen.

Can current university students apply?

They may apply, but partner universities assess these situations individually. Applicants should include their university transcripts and explain the proposed transition in their application.

Is a separate university admission application required?

No. Applicants complete the Tomorrow’s Leaders application rather than submitting separate applications to AUB and LAU.

What is the application deadline?

The deadline for the 2027–2028 academic year is 18 November 2026.

When will successful candidates be notified?

Shortlisted candidates are expected to be invited to interviews in January 2027. Conditional admission offers are scheduled to be communicated from May through July 2027.

Final Thoughts

The US-MEPI Tomorrow’s Leaders Scholarship 2027–2028 offers an important opportunity for academically talented students from eligible Middle Eastern and North African countries to pursue undergraduate education with extensive financial support.

Through its partnerships with the American University of Beirut and the Lebanese American University, the programme combines university study with leadership training, professional development, mentorship, and international exposure.

The scholarship covers tuition for up to four academic years, accommodation, health insurance, living support during programme activities, travel, and other academic expenses.

However, applicants must pay careful attention to the nationality restrictions, secondary-school graduation requirements, academic standards, and English-language expectations.

Students who meet the eligibility criteria should begin preparing their academic records, recommendations, and supporting documents early.

With applications already open, the most important immediate date is 18 November 2026, when the application window closes.

Official Links

Tomorrow’s Leaders Program – Official Website and Application: https://www.tomorrowsleadersprogram.org/

Tomorrow’s Leaders Program – Official FAQs, Requirements and Application Guidance: https://www.tomorrowsleadersprogram.org/faqs/