FY 2026 National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y)

ECA Performance Monitoring Plan (PMP) (DOCX)

# Performance Monitoring Plan (PMP)

Instructions:

The Monitoring Data for ECA (MODE) Framework provides standard indicators and corresponding survey questions to ensure consistent measures across all ECA programs. The Performance Monitoring Plan (PMP) in this document includes ALL MODE objectives and indicators that were created to collect data from program participants. While ECA recommends the applicant use the format provided, this is not a requirement. However, any performance monitoring reference document the applicant submits should include the information in the column headers (Indicator Name, Definition, Target, Survey Question, etc.) in the table below at a minimum.

To provide a PMP that will meet the solicitation review criteria, the applicant should take the following steps:

• Fill out the Applicant Name, FY and Program Title and Funding Opportunity # fields highlighted above

• Carefully review the solicitation document to identify the MODE indicators that were listed

• Review the additional (those not listed in the solicitation document) MODE Framework indicators listed in the table below to determine if they are relevant (meaning the applicant proposes that data should be collected for those indicators as part of this program)

• Those indicators that were NOT selected in steps 2 and 3 above can be deleted from the table below (to do this, click your mouse somewhere within the row you would like to delete, right-click, select “Delete Cells”, then “Delete Entire Row”. Repeat this process until the only MODE Framework indicators that remain are those identified during steps 1 and 2)

• Applicants may also design custom objectives and/or indicators that are specific to the proposed program and the proposed MODE Framework indicators are insufficient to cover all aspects of the program. Applicants should limit the number of these custom indicators, bearing in mind collection and reporting capacity, and prioritize additional measures identified in the solicitation.

For all indicators in the PMP that remain after steps 2-5 above, insert the target into the appropriate column. A target specifies a feasible and appropriate level of an output or outcome that is hoped for, expected, or intended.

Resources

More resources and guidance documents on the MODE Framework and PMP are available online (https://eca.state.gov/impact/eca-monitoring-evaluation-learning-and-innovation-meli-unit/mode-framework-eca-applicants-and). PMP-specific resources include:

• MODE Framework Indicator Book (https://app.box.com/s/9gvvxzxlm6bmvzqengqu8uad40yz2doe ):

MODE Performance Indicator Reference Sheets (https://app.box.com/s/r6x4elenw9pnicdtjyqv6rbyoczhp62t )

• PMP Creation Webinar (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBHC1oLNZvI )

Definitions of PMP Columns

• Performance Indicator: An observable or measurable characteristic that indicates the extent to which a program objective is being achieved.

• Definition: Clarifies all terms necessary and provides details on how to calculate the data collected to measure the change expected.

• Disaggregation (“Disagg”): Lists how the data will be broken down into subgroups (such as: sex, age, state, country, etc.)

• Target: Specific, planned level of result to be achieved within an explicit timeframe

• Data Source and Required Survey Question: Specifies how the data will be obtained (such as a survey, observation, interview, etc.) and the mandatory question linked to the data source. Note that all MODE Framework survey questions are required (i.e. should be forced response); please see the Consent Language in the MODE Framework Indicator Book for an example of how to convey this to participants/survey respondents.

• When to Collect: Specifies when the indicator will be measured, for example: post-program, end of award, etc.

A post-program collection should occur no later than 6 weeks after the participant has completed the program

Award recipients are responsible for collecting indicator data on participant outputs and outcomes during the period of performance of the program itself. Note: The Bureau will measure outcomes of ECA participants at one, three, five, and 10 years after the program has ended to capture the long-term impact of ECA programming unless otherwise specified in the solicitation for which you are applying. In this instance, the recipient will be responsible for coordinating with ECA on any alumni surveys to de-duplicate questions and minimize potential survey fatigue.

Definitions of Key Terms

Each indicator in the table below includes a list of relevant terms in the indicator column. While terms vary across indicators, there are a few key terms that apply to a high number of indicators. Those terms are listed below to save space in the table:

Participant or Exchange Visitor - A person who has directly participated in an ECA-facilitated program (either ECA-funded or BridgeUSA) and been exposed to at least 10 hours of content or otherwise meets the requirements for entry into the Alumni Contact Engagement System (ACES). Participants do not include audiences who may watch, listen to, or otherwise interact with ECA program participants.

Participants of American Spaces programming include any individual who attends a program conducted by an American Space, whether that program is located at an American Space or an outside location. Individuals who attend virtual (online) or blended (partially online, partially in-person) programs are also considered participants.

“Exchange Visitors” on ECA’s Office of Private Sector Exchange (ECA/EC) programs are considered program participants.

• Host community - A community that sponsors, supports, or provides services for exchange programs and/or their participants. Host communities and institutions do not necessarily directly participate in a program. Benefits to this group most often occur through interaction with the participants and/or alumni during or after the program. Host community members comprise two groups:

• Host families who welcomed exchange visitors into their homes;

• Host institutions or businesses who provided professional or academic experiences to exchange visitors.

Virtual exchange - A sustained, multi-way interaction, that is 100% online, used to build networks and shared knowledge around policy priorities. For a program to be considered a virtual exchange, participants must engage with all content virtually. A series of virtual components can be considered an exchange if they are (1) originated as a unit with a collective start and end date and (2) are organized around a unifying theme. Examples of virtual elements include online skill-building workshops, virtual professional placements (internships), and virtual mentorships. A series of massive open online courses (MOOCs) would be considered an exchange if they are offered as a set (of say six classes) and are centered on a specific topic (for example, media literacy). Offering MOOCs as an online resource is not considered a virtual exchange program.

Virtual element - Single, stand-alone components offered as either add-on enrichment to an in-person program or as general outreach by ECA. Examples of virtual elements include online skill-building workshops, virtual professional placements (internships), and virtual mentorships. Offering single MOOCs to the general public or virtual pre-departure orientation webinars are both considered virtual elements. Additionally, online spaces for participants to communicate (such as a program Facebook page) are considered virtual elements.

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ECA Performance Monitoring Plan (PMP) (PDF)

PERFORMANCE MONITORING PLAN (PMP)
Applicant Name: Example Organization
Fiscal Year and Program Title: FY## Example Program
Funding Opportunity #: SFOP000XXXX
Instructions:
The Monitoring Data for ECA (MODE) Framework provides standard indicators and corresponding survey questions to ensure consistent
measures across all ECA programs. The Performance Monitoring Plan (PMP) in this document includes ALL MODE objectives and indicators
that were created to collect data from program participants. While ECA recommends the applicant use the format provided, this is not a
requirement. However, any performance monitoring reference document the applicant submits should include the information in the column
headers (Indicator Name, Definition, Target, Survey Question, etc.) in the table below at a minimum.
To provide a PMP that will meet the solicitation review criteria, the applicant should take the following steps:
1. Fill out the Applicant Name, FY and Program Title and Funding Opportunity # fields highlighted above
2. Carefully review the solicitation document to identify the MODE indicators that were listed
3. Review the additional (those not listed in the solicitation document) MODE Framework indicators listed in the table below to determine if
they are relevant (meaning the applicant proposes that data should be collected for those indicators as part of this program)
4. Those indicators that were NOT selected in steps 2 and 3 above can be deleted from the table below (to do this, click your mouse
somewhere within the row you would like to delete, right-click, select “Delete Cells”, then “Delete Entire Row”. Repeat this process until
the only MODE Framework indicators that remain are those identified during steps 1 and 2)
5. Applicants may also design custom objectives and/or indicators that are specific to the proposed program and the proposed MODE
Framework indicators are insufficient to cover all aspects of the program. Applicants should limit the number of these custom indicators,
bearing in mind collection and reporting capacity, and prioritize additional measures identified in the solicitation.
For all indicators in the PMP that remain after steps 2-5 above, insert the target into the appropriate column. A target specifies a feasible and
appropriate level of an output or outcome that is hoped for, expected, or intended.
Last Updated: February 2025

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Resources
More resources and guidance documents on the MODE Framework and PMP are available online (https://eca.state.gov/impact/eca-monitoring-
evaluation-learning-and-innovation-meli-unit/mode-framework-eca-applicants-and). PMP-specific resources include:
• MODE Framework Indicator Book (https://app.box.com/s/9gvvxzxlm6bmvzqengqu8uad40yz2doe ):
• MODE Performance Indicator Reference Sheets (https://app.box.com/s/r6x4elenw9pnicdtjyqv6rbyoczhp62t )
• PMP Creation Webinar (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBHC1oLNZvI )
Definitions of PMP Columns
• Performance Indicator: An observable or measurable characteristic that indicates the extent to which a program objective is being
achieved.
• Definition: Clarifies all terms necessary and provides details on how to calculate the data collected to measure the change expected.
• Disaggregation (“Disagg”): Lists how the data will be broken down into subgroups (such as: sex, age, state, country, etc.)
• Target: Specific, planned level of result to be achieved within an explicit timeframe
• Data Source and Required Survey Question: Specifies how the data will be obtained (such as a survey, observation, interview, etc.) and
the mandatory question linked to the data source. Note that all MODE Framework survey questions are required (i.e. should be
forced response); please see the Consent Language in the MODE Framework Indicator Book for an example of how to convey this
to participants/survey respondents.
• When to Collect: Specifies when the indicator will be measured, for example: post-program, end of award, etc.
o A post-program collection should occur no later than 6 weeks after the participant has completed the program
o Award recipients are responsible for collecting indicator data on participant outputs and outcomes during the period of
performance of the program itself. Note: The Bureau will measure outcomes of ECA participants at one, three, five, and 10 years
after the program has ended to capture the long-term impact of ECA programming unless otherwise specified in the solicitation
for which you are applying. In this instance, the recipient will be responsible for coordinating with ECA on any alumni surveys to
de-duplicate questions and minimize potential survey fatigue.
Last Updated: February 2025

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Definitions of Key Terms
Each indicator in the table below includes a list of relevant terms in the indicator column. While terms vary across indicators, there are a few key
terms that apply to a high number of indicators. Those terms are listed below to save space in the table:
• Participant or Exchange Visitor - A person who has directly participated in an ECA-facilitated program (either ECA-funded or
BridgeUSA) and been exposed to at least 10 hours of content or otherwise meets the requirements for entry into the Alumni Contact
Engagement System (ACES). Participants do not include audiences who may watch, listen to, or otherwise interact with ECA program
participants.
o Participants of American Spaces programming include any individual who attends a program conducted by an American Space,
whether that program is located at an American Space or an outside location. Individuals who attend virtual (online) or blended
(partially online, partially in-person) programs are also considered participants.
o “Exchange Visitors” on ECA’s Office of Private Sector Exchange (ECA/EC) programs are considered program participants.
• Host community - A community that sponsors, supports, or provides services for exchange programs and/or their participants. Host
communities and institutions do not necessarily directly participate in a program. Benefits to this group most often occur through
interaction with the participants and/or alumni during or after the program. Host community members comprise two groups:
o Host families who welcomed exchange visitors into their homes;
o Host institutions or businesses who provided professional or academic experiences to exchange visitors.
• Virtual exchange - A sustained, multi-way interaction, that is 100% online, used to build networks and shared knowledge around policy
priorities. For a program to be considered a virtual exchange, participants must engage with all content virtually. A series of virtual
components can be considered an exchange if they are (1) originated as a unit with a collective start and end date and (2) are organized
around a unifying theme. Examples of virtual elements include online skill-building workshops, virtual professional placements
(internships), and virtual mentorships. A series of massive open online courses (MOOCs) would be considered an exchange if they are
offered as a set (of say six classes) and are centered on a specific topic (for example, media literacy). Offering MOOCs as an online
resource is not considered a virtual exchange program.
• Virtual element - Single, stand-alone components offered as either add-on enrichment to an in-person program or as general outreach by
ECA. Examples of virtual elements include online skill-building workshops, virtual professional placements (internships), and virtual
mentorships. Offering single MOOCs to the general public or virtual pre-departure orientation webinars are both considered virtual
elements. Additionally, online spaces for participants to communicate (such as a program Facebook page) are considered virtual elements.
Last Updated: February 2025

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Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
Demographic Questions
Home Country Used to identify subgroups for Country of Origin N/A N/A Survey (self-reported data) Post-
(Demographic) disaggregation. (Foreign participants only) Program
What is your home country?
[Drop Down: List of program
countries] – See Appendix C in
the Indicator Book
Home State Used to identify subgroups for Home State disaggregation. N/A N/A Survey (self-reported data) Post-
(Demographic) (American participants only) Program
What is your home state?
[Drop Down: List of U.S.
States] – See Appendix D in the
Indicator Book
Age Used to identify subgroups for Age disaggregation. N/A N/A Survey (self-reported data) Post-
(Demographic) Program
What is your age? Fill in the
blank ________
[Validate answer numeric, with
accepted answers ranging from
15 to 100]
-- OR--
Are you between the ages of 15
and 35?
• Yes
• No
Sex Used to identify subgroups for Sex disaggregation. N/A N/A Survey (self-reported data) Post-
(Demographic) Program
Last Updated: February 2025

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Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
Please select your biological
sex classification:
• Female
• Male
Race Used to identify subgroups for Race disaggregation. N/A N/A Survey (self-reported data) Post-
(Demographic) (American participants only) Program
What is your race or ethnicity?
Select all that apply.
• American Indian or Alaskan
Native
• Asian
• Black or African American
• Hispanic or Latino
• Native Hawaiian or Other
Pacific Islander
• White
• Some Other Race
• I do not wish to respond
Participant Type Used to identify the subgroup “Reciprocal” for Participant N/A N/A Survey (self-reported data) Post-
(Demographic) Type disaggregation. Program
(American participants only) Did you participate in a
reciprocal exchange?
Award recipients will need to identify whether a participant A reciprocal participant is an
is designated as 'Foreign', 'American', or 'Reciprocal' as American who travels to an
part of the disaggregations. The assumption is that those exchange participant's home
who answer the "Home Country" question can be country to assist the participant
designated as a 'Foreign participant', those who answer with their individual project
"Home State" can be designated as an 'American
participant', and those who answer the associated question • Yes
with a "yes" can be designated as a 'Reciprocal participant' • No
Last Updated: February 2025

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Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
ECA Objective 1: Advance participant and beneficiary cross-cultural competence and global perspective
ECA Sub-Objective 1.1: Promote cultural exchanges and enhance understanding between participants and their host communities
E1.1.01: Percent Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Sex To be Survey (self-reported data) Post-
of participants Terms • Age completed Program
reporting that
• Country of origin
by the Do you agree with the
their program Counting Frequency applicant following statement?
• Home state
experience Each respondent should only be counted once in the
• Race
offered reporting year following their program completion. My program offered
• Participant type:
opportunities to opportunities for making
American, foreign,
engage with Calculations cultural connections and
reciprocal
other cultures To calculate percentage, numerator will be number of sharing. For example:
respondents who answered “yes” while the denominator Conversations about each
others’ countries, attending
will be the total number of question respondents. Divide
cultural events, etc.
the numerator by the denominator and then multiply by 100
• Yes
for the percent value.
• No
E1.1.04: Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Sex To be Survey (self-reported data) Post-
Percent of Terms • Age completed Program
participants with • Country of origin by the Did your views of the United
more favorable Counting Frequency • Home state applicant States government change as a
opinions of the Each respondent should only be counted once in the • Race result of your program
United States reporting year following their program completion. • Participant type: participation?
Government
American, foreign,
• Yes
(core indicator)
Calculations reciprocal • No
To calculate percentage, numerator will be number of
respondents who select “much more favorable” OR If YES:
“somewhat more favorable” on the survey question. The
denominator will be the total number of question How did your views of the
respondents. Divide the numerator by the denominator and United States government
then multiply by 100 for the percent value. change? Are your views:
Last Updated: February 2025

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Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
• Much less favorable
• Somewhat less favorable
• Somewhat more favorable
• Much more favorable
E1.1.09: Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Sex To be Survey (self-reported data) Post-
Percent of Terms • Age completed Program
participants who • Country of origin by the Before this exchange program,
traveled abroad Abroad – A country outside of one’s home country • Home state applicant had you traveled outside of
for the first time
• Race
your home country?
because of their Counting Frequency • Participant type: • Yes
program
Each respondent should only be counted once in the American, foreign, • No
(core indicator)
reporting year following their program completion. reciprocal
If YES:
Calculations
To calculate percentage, numerator will be number of Why did you travel outside of
respondents who answered “no” to the first question while your home country? Select all
the denominator will be the total number of question that apply.
respondents. Divide the numerator by the denominator and • Tourism
then multiply by 100 for the percent value. • Visit friends/family
• Participation in another U.S.
Department of State
exchange program (including
U.S. Embassy-sponsored
exchanges)
• Participation in a non-U.S.
Department of State
exchange
• Study
• Work
• Other: ______ [write-in]
Last Updated: February 2025

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Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
E1.1.10: Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Sex To be Survey (self-reported data) Post-
Percent of Terms • Age completed Program
foreign • Country of origin by the Before this exchange program,
participants who Counting Frequency applicant had you traveled to the United
traveled to the Each respondent should only be counted once per reporting States?
United States year following their program completion. • Yes
for the first time
• No
during their Calculations
program To determine the percent value, numerator is number of If YES:
(core indicator)
respondents who reply “no” to the first question while
denominator will be the total number of question Why did you travel to the
respondents. Divide the numerator by the denominator and United States? Select all that
then multiply by 100 for the percent value. apply.
• Tourism
• Visit friends/family
• Participation in another U.S.
Department of State
exchange program (including
U.S. Embassy-sponsored
exchanges)
• Participation in a non-U.S.
Department of State
exchange
• Study
• Work
• Other: ______ [write-in]
E1.1.11: Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Sex To be Survey (self-reported data) Post-
Percent of Terms • Age completed Program
American
• Home state
Last Updated: February 2025

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Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
participants Host country - The country in which the participant • Race by the How much did participation in
indicating a traveled to for their exchange program. • Participant type: applicant the exchange program change
change in their American, your understanding or
understanding of Counting Frequency reciprocal knowledge of the following
their host Each respondent should only be counted once in the topics?
country's culture reporting year following their program completion. • Host country political system
and values • Host country economy
Calculations • Foreign affairs of my host
Responses to each item should be scored in the following country
manner: • Domestic affairs in my host
No Change – 1 country
Minimal Change – 2 • Host country values and
culture
Moderate Change – 3
• Daily life in my host country
Substantial Change – 4
• Freedom of speech and press
in my host country
The response scores for each item should be summed and
• Voluntary community
divided by the number of items they responded to in order
service in my host country
to give an average question score for each respondent.
[Scale: No Change, Minimal
To determine the percent value, the numerator is the
Change, Moderate Change,
number of respondents whose average question score is 2
Substantial Change]
or greater while the denominator will be the total number
of question respondents. Divide the numerator by the
denominator and then multiply by 100 for the percent
value.
E1.1.12: Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Sex To be Survey (self-reported data) Post-
Percent of Terms • Age completed Program
foreign • Country of origin by the Thinking about the participants
participants Third-party country - A country that is not the applicant you met from other countries
indicating a participant/alumni’s home or host country. Generally, this (not your home country or the
change in refers to the home countries of fellow participants. U.S.), how much did
understanding of participation in the program
Last Updated: February 2025

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Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
third-party Counting Frequency change your understanding or
countries’ Each respondent should only be counted once in the knowledge of the following
cultures and reporting year following their program completion. topics related to those
values countries?
Calculations • Political system
Responses to each item should be scored in the following • Economy
manner: • Foreign affairs
No Change – 1 • Domestic affairs
Minimal Change – 2 • Values and culture
Moderate Change – 3 • Daily life
Substantial Change – 4 • Freedom of speech and press
• Voluntary community
The response scores for each item should be summed and service
divided by the number of items they responded to in order
to give an average question score for each respondent. [Scale: No Change, Minimal
Change, Moderate Change,
Substantial Change]
To determine the percent value, numerator is number of
respondents whose average question score is 2 or greater
while the denominator will be the total number of question
respondents. Divide the numerator by the denominator and
then multiply by 100 for the percent value.
E1.1.13: Percent Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Sex To be Survey (self-reported data) Post-
of foreign Terms • Age completed Program
participants who • Country of origin by the Compared to before your
are more likely Counting Frequency applicant program participation, how
to recommend Each respondent should only be counted once in the likely are you now to
the United reporting year following their program completion. recommend the United States as
States as a good a good place to study?
place to study Calculations • Much more unlikely
To determine the percent value, numerator is number of • Somewhat more unlikely
respondents who reply “much more likely” or “somewhat • Somewhat more likely
more likely” while denominator will be the total number of Much more likely
Last Updated: February 2025

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Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
question respondents. Divide the numerator by the
denominator and then multiply by 100 for the percent
value.
E1.1.16: Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Sex To be Survey (self-reported data) Post-
Percent of Terms • Age completed Program
virtual exchange
• Country of origin
by the In the future, are virtual
(VE) Virtual exchange - See Definitions of Key Terms applicant exchanges likely to be your
• Home state
participants who
• Race
only way to interact with
report VE as Virtual element - See Definitions of Key Terms citizens from other countries?
• Participant type:
their only likely • Yes
American, foreign,
way to interact Counting Frequency • No
reciprocal
with citizens Each respondent should only be counted once per reporting • I don’t know
from other
year following their program completion.
countries in the
future
Calculations
To calculate percentage, numerator will be number of
respondents who answered “yes” while the denominator
will be the total number of question respondents. Divide
the numerator by the denominator and then multiply by 100
for the percent value.
This indicator counts participants involved in virtual
exchange programs (see definition above) and WILL NOT
count participants engaging with virtual program elements
as part of a non-virtual program.
E1.1.17: Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Sex To be Survey (self-reported data) Post-
Percent of Terms • Age completed Program
foreign • Country of origin by the Did your views of the American
participants with Counting Frequency applicant people change as a result of
more favorable Each respondent should only be counted once in the your program participation?
opinions of the reporting year following their program completion. • Yes
Last Updated: February 2025

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Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
American • No
people Calculations
(core indicator) To determine the percent value, numerator is number of If YES:
respondents who reply “much more favorable” OR
“somewhat more favorable” while the denominator will be How did your views of the
the total number of question respondents. Divide the American people change? Are
numerator by the denominator and then multiply by 100 for your views:
the percent value.
• Much less favorable
• Somewhat less favorable
• Somewhat more favorable
• Much more favorable
E1.1.18: Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Sex To be Survey (self-reported data) Post-
Percent of Terms • Age completed Program
foreign
• Country of origin
by the How much did participation in
participants Counting Frequency applicant the program change your
indicating an Each respondent should only be counted once in the understanding or knowledge of
increase in reporting year following their program completion. each of the following topics?
understanding of • United States democracy
United States Calculations • United States economy
culture and Responses to each item should be scored in the following • Foreign affairs of the United
values
manner: States
(core indicator)
No Change – 1 • Domestic affairs in the
Minimal Change – 2 United States
Moderate Change – 3
• United States values and
Substantial Change – 4
culture
• Daily life in the United
The response scores for each item should be summed and
States
divided by the number of items they responded to in order
• Freedom of speech and press
to give a total question score for each respondent.
in the United States
• Voluntary community
service in the United States
Last Updated: February 2025

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Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
To determine the percent value, numerator is number of
respondents whose total question score is 2 or greater while [Scale: No Change, Minimal
the denominator will be the total number of question Change, Moderate Change,
respondents. Divide the numerator by the denominator and Substantial Change]
then multiply by 100 for the percent value.
E1.1.19: Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Sex To be Survey (self-reported data) Post-
Percent of Terms • Age completed Program
participants • Country of origin by the To what extent do you agree or
agreeing with Democratic values - The ideas or beliefs that make a applicant disagree with the statements
• Home state
statements in society fair, including: democratic decision-making, below?
• Race
support of freedom of speech, and equality before the law. • Voting is important because
• Participant type:
democratic real decisions are made in
American, foreign,
values Counting Frequency elections
Each respondent should only be counted once in the reciprocal
(core indicator)
• Free and fair elections are
reporting year following their program completion.
the cornerstone of
democracy
Calculations
Responses to each item should be scored in the following • An independent media is
manner: important to the free flow of
Strongly disagree – 1 information
Disagree – 2 • All citizens in a country
Neither disagree nor agree – 3 should have equal rights and
Agree – 4
protections under the law,
Strongly agree – 5
regardless of circumstances
Don’t know/can’t ascertain – 0
• The rule of law is
fundamental to a functioning
To determine the percent value, numerator is the number of
democracy
respondents whose average question score is greater than or
equal to 4 on a 1-5 scale while the denominator will be the • Individuals have the right to
total number of question respondents. Divide the numerator free speech and to voice
by the denominator and then multiply by 100 for the opposition
percent value.
Last Updated: February 2025

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Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
• Organizations have the right
to free speech and to voice
opposition
• Democratic principles
enhance the workplace.
Supervisors should
incorporate democratic
principles into their
management practices
[Scale: Strongly disagree,
Disagree, Neither disagree nor
agree, Agree, Strongly agree,
Don’t know/can’t ascertain]
ECA Objective 2: Increase the impact that participants and alumni have on their communities / countries
E2.0.01: Percent Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Sex To be Survey (self-reported data) Post-
of foreign Terms • Age completed Program
participants that • Country of origin by the Did you volunteer your time
volunteer in Volunteer - To offer one’s time or services to an applicant during your exchange?
their host organization or community effort for free. Volunteering • Yes
communities does not include time spent working as part of a • No
professional placement. • My program did not offer the
opportunity to volunteer
Host community - See Definitions of Key Terms
Counting Frequency
Each respondent should only be counted once in the
reporting year following their program completion.
Calculations
To calculate the percentage, the numerator will be the
number of respondents who answered “yes” while the
Last Updated: February 2025

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Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
denominator will be the total number of question
respondents. Divide the numerator by the denominator and
then multiply by 100 for the percent value.
E2.0.04: Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Sex To be Survey (self-reported data) Post-
Number of Terms • Age completed Program
hours that
• Country of origin
by the How many hours did you spend
foreign Volunteer - To offer one’s time or services to an applicant volunteering during your
participants organization or community effort for free. Volunteering exchange program? (Please
spend does not include time spent working as part of a note that volunteer hours do
volunteering in professional placement. not include time spent working
their host
as part of your professional
Host community - See Definitions of Key Terms placement.)
communities
Counting Frequency Fill in the blank: __________
Each respondent should only be counted once in a [validate as numeric]
reporting year following their program completion.
Calculations
Participants will complete a survey question that will
request the number of hours of time spent volunteering
during their exchange program.
The total number of hours for all participants should be
reported.
ECA Sub-Objective 2.2: Foster participants’ belief that civic engagement benefits communities/countries
E2.2.01: Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Sex To be Survey (self-reported data) Post-
Percent of Terms • Age completed Program
participants who • Country of origin by the As a result of your program
have more Home community - The community that the program applicant participation, how has your
• Home state
confidence in participant originates from and will return to at the confidence in each of the
• Race
their ability to conclusion of the program. following changed?
have an impact
Last Updated: February 2025

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Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
in their home Home country - The country in which the program • Participant type: • I have the ability to make a
country participant resides prior to their program participation. American, foreign, difference in the community
(core indicator) reciprocal where I live
Counting Frequency • I have the ability to make a
Each respondent should only be counted once in the difference in the country
reporting year following their program completion. where I live
• I have the ability to make a
Calculation difference in the global
To determine the percent value, numerator is number of community
respondents that responded “more confident” to the
statement about their ability to make a difference in the
[Scale: I am less confident; No
‘community where I live’ and/or ‘country where I live’
change in confidence, I am
while the denominator will be the total number of question
more confident]
respondents. Divide the numerator by the denominator and
then multiply by 100 for the percent value.
ECA Objective 3: Strengthen engagement among participants, alumni, beneficiaries, and institutions
E3.0.02: Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Sex To be Survey (self-reported data) Post-
Percent of Terms • Age completed Program
foreign
• Country of origin
by the Are you still in contact with any
participants who Network - An interconnected or interrelated group or applicant Americans you met during your
report increasing system. In the context of MODE, this refers to an program?
their network of interconnected or interrelated group intentionally • Yes
Americans convened, sustained, or otherwise facilitated through ECA • No
(core indicator) programming.
If YES:
Counting Frequency
Each respondent should only be counted once in the Are the contacts you maintain
reporting year following their program completion. with Americans personal,
professional, or both?
Calculations • Personal
• Professional
Last Updated: February 2025

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Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
To determine the percent value, numerator is number of • Both personal and
respondents who reply “yes” to the first question item professional
while the denominator will be the total number of question
respondents. Divide the numerator by the denominator and
then multiply by 100 for the percent value.
E3.0.04: Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Sex To be Survey (self-reported data) Post-
Percent of Terms • Age completed Program
foreign • Country of origin by the Are you still in contact with any
participants who Network- An interconnected or interrelated group or applicant individual not from the U.S.
report increasing system intentionally convened, sustained, or otherwise and not from your own country
their network of facilitated through ECA programming. that you met during your
third country program?
nationals Third-country national - A third country stakeholder is •Yes
defined as a person or institution who does not have the •No
same nationality and is not from the country in which the
If YES:
exchange took place or from the country of a participant of
the exchange.
Are the contacts you maintain
with these individuals personal,
Counting Frequency
professional, or both?
Each respondent should only be counted once in the
•Personal
reporting year following their program completion.
•Professional
•Both personal and professional
Calculations
To determine the percent value, numerator is number of
respondents who reply “yes” to the first question item
while the denominator will be the total number of question
respondents. Divide the numerator by the denominator and
then multiply by 100 for the percent value.
E3.0.07: Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Sex To be Survey (self-reported data) Post-
Percent of Terms • Age completed Program
participants who
• Country of origin
by the
identify as a Counting Frequency applicant
Last Updated: February 2025

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Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
Department of Each respondent should only be counted once in the • Home state Do you consider yourself a
State program reporting year following their program completion. • Race participant of a U.S.
participant • Participant type: Department of State program?
(core indicator) Calculations American, foreign, • Yes
To calculate percentage, numerator will be number of reciprocal • No
participants who answered “yes” in response to the survey
question. The denominator will be the total number of
question respondents. Divide the numerator by the
denominator and then multiply by 100 for the percent
value.
ECA Sub-Objective 3.1: Alumni subscribe to platforms for resources and information-sharing
E3.1.02: Percent Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Sex To be Survey (self-reported data) Post-
of participants Terms • Age completed Program
who learned • Country of origin by the Through your program
about new Resource – Information that is new and potentially useful • Home state applicant experience, did you learn about
resources to the participant. Can include information guidance that is any of the following
• Race
either personal or professional. Does not include persons. Department of State-managed
• Participant type:
Can be information provided during any portion of the resources? Select all that apply.
American, foreign,
program process (pre-program, during the program, or • Small grants applications from
reciprocal
immediately post-program – such as a Congress or the U.S. Government [Carry
concluding event). forward selection to next
question]
• Alumni Engagement
Counting Frequency Innovation Fund (AEIF)
Each respondent should only be counted once in the applications [Carry forward
reporting year following their program completion. selection to next question]
• Citizen Diplomacy Action
Calculations Fund applications [ask of
To calculate percentage, numerator will be number of American alumni only] [Carry
respondents who select at least one of the survey question forward selection to next
response options EXCEPT “None of the above” to the first question]
Last Updated: February 2025

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Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
question, while the denominator will be the total number of • Project Development toolkits
question respondents. Divide the numerator by the [Carry forward selection to next
denominator and then multiply by 100 for the percent question]
value. • Supplies or equipment [Carry
forward selection to next
question]
• Information on
workshops/events hosted by the
U.S. Embassy in your home
country [ask of Foreign Alumni
only] [Carry forward selection
to next question]
• Embassy network of experts
and leaders [ask of Foreign
Alumni only] [Carry forward
selection to next question]
• American Spaces (either
American Centers, American
Corners, or Bi-National
Centers) [ask of Foreign
Alumni only] [Carry forward
selection to next question]
• Career Connections [ask of
American alumni only] [Carry
forward selection to next
question]
• None
For each category the
respondent selects, ask:
Was this the first time you
heard about this resource?
Last Updated: February 2025

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Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
• Yes
• No
E3.1.05: Percent Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Sex To be Survey (self-reported data) Post-
of participants Terms • Age completed Program
who are • Country of origin by the Are you connected with the
connected to Digital platform - A digital place, opportunity, or event for applicant Department of State
• Home state
ECA through a public discussion or interpersonal engagement intentionally International Exchange Alumni
• Race
U.S. Department convened, sustained, or otherwise facilitated through ECA Network on the following
• Participant type:
of State- programming. digital platforms?
American, foreign,
managed • Registered on the
reciprocal
platform Counting Frequency alumni.state.gov website
Each respondent should only be counted once in the (https://alumni.state.gov)
reporting year following their program completion. • Follow @Exchangealumni on
Twitter,
Calculations • Connected with Alumni
To calculate percentage, numerator will be number of Affairs on LinkedIn
respondents who select “yes” to at least one of the survey (https://www.linkedin.com/in/al
question response options while the denominator will be umni-affairs-9b871b103)
the total number of question respondents. Divide the
numerator by the denominator and then multiply by 100 for [Scale: Yes/No/I don’t know]
the percent value.
ECA Objective 4: Strengthen personal, professional, and technical abilities and aptitudes of participants and beneficiaries
E4.0.01: Percent Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Sex To be Survey (self-reported) Post-
of participants Terms • Age completed Program
reporting
• Country of origin
by the [NOTE: This question is also
increases in Counting Frequency applicant included in Indicators E4.0.03
• Home state
their job Each respondent should only be counted once in the and E4.0.05. If these are to be
• Race
skills as a result reporting year following their program completion. included in a survey, this
of their program
• Participant type: question can be asked once,
participation Calculations American, foreign, with up to two follow-up
To determine the percent value, numerator is number of reciprocal questions based on an
affirmative response.]
respondents who reply “yes” while the denominator will be
Last Updated: February 2025

---

Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
the total number of question respondents. Divide the
numerator by the denominator and then multiply by 100 for Did you increase your personal
the percent value. and/or professional skills as a
result of your participation in
this program?
• Yes
• No
E4.0.03: Percent Soft skills - Qualities and behaviors an individual • Sex To be Survey (self-reported) Post-
of participants demonstrates to interact with others effectively. Examples • Age completed Program
reporting an include communication, listening, self-awareness, • Country of origin by the NOTE: Question 1 is also
increase in soft awareness of others, self-initiative, cognitive competence applicant included in Indicator 4.0.01
• Home state
skills as a result skills, self-confidence, resourcefulness/resilience, and and 4.0.05. If at least two of
• Race
decision-making and problem-solving skills. those questions are to be
of their program
• Participant type: included in a survey, question 1
participation
Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key American, foreign, can be asked once, with up to
Terms reciprocal two follow-up questions based
on an affirmative response.
Counting Frequency
Each participant should only be counted once in the Did you increase your personal
reporting year following their program completion. and/or professional skills as a
result of your participation in
Calculations this program?
To determine the percent value, numerator is number of • Yes
respondents who select at least one answer option except • No
for “none of the above skills” in the second question while
the denominator will be the total number of question If YES:
respondents. Divide the numerator by the denominator and
then multiply by 100 for the percent value. Please select the personal skills
you increased. Select all that
apply.
• Leadership skills
• Communication skills
• Listening skills
• Self-awareness
Last Updated: February 2025

---

Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
• Self-initiative
• Self-confidence
• Resourcefulness
• Decision-making skills
• Problem-solving skills
• Other: ______ [write-in]
• None of the above skills
E4.0.05: Percent Technical skills - Knowledge and ability to perform • Sex To be Survey (self-reported data) Post-
of participants specific tasks. Examples of technical skills include project • Age completed Program
who report an management, entrepreneurship, journalism, teaching • Country of origin by the NOTE: Question 1 is also
increase in instruction, science, technology, engineering and applicant included in Indicator 4.0.01
• Home state
technical skills mathematics (STEM) competence. and 4.0.03. If at least two of
• Race
these questions are to be
as a result of
Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Participant type: included in a survey, question 1
their program
Terms American, foreign, can be asked once, with up to
participation
reciprocal two follow-up questions based
Counting Frequency on an affirmative response.
Each respondent should only be counted once in the
reporting year following their program completion. Did you increase your personal
and/or professional skills as a
Calculations result of your participation in
To determine the percent value, numerator is number of this program?
respondents who select at least one answer option EXCEPT • Yes
for “none of the above skills” in the second question while • No
the denominator will be the total number of question
respondents. Divide the numerator by the denominator and If YES:
then multiply by 100 for the percent value.
Please select the professional
skills you increased. Select all
that apply.
• Project management skills
• Business management skills
• Entrepreneurship skills
Last Updated: February 2025

---

Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
• Journalism skills
• Teaching skills
• Science competence
• Technology competence
• Engineering competence
• Mathematics competence
• Other: ______ [write-in]
• None of the above skills
E4.0.09: Percent Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Sex To be Survey (self-reported) Post-
of participants Terms • Age completed Program
reporting an • Country of origin by the 1. Did you improve your
increase in Counting Frequency applicant language skills in a foreign
• Home state
language skills Each respondent should only be counted once in the language as a result of the
• Race
as a result of reporting year following their program completion. program?
• Participant type:
their program
• Yes
American, foreign,
participation Calculations • No
To determine the percent value, numerator is number of reciprocal
respondents who answered yes in question 1, while the If YES to question 1, ask
denominator will be the total number of question questions 2 and 3:
respondents. Divide the numerator by the denominator and 2. Which of the following
then multiply by 100 for the percent value best described your ability
to speak in that foreign
language before your
participation in the
program?
• No ability at all
• Able to communicate only in
a very limited capacity
• Able to satisfy basic survival
needs and minimum courtesy
requirements
Last Updated: February 2025

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Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
• Able to satisfy routine social
demands and limited work
requirements
• Able to speak with sufficient
grammatical accuracy and
vocabulary to discuss
relevant professional areas
• Able to speak fluently and
accurately in all situations
• Proficiency equivalent to
that of a native speaker
[Use display logic to show
those choices with abilities
greater than the selection in
question 2.]
3. Which of the following
best describes your ability
to speak in that foreign
language after the
program?
• Able to communicate only in
a very limited capacity
• Able to satisfy basic survival
needs and minimum courtesy
requirements
• Able to satisfy routine social
demands and limited work
requirements
• Able to speak with sufficient
grammatical accuracy and
vocabulary to discuss
relevant professional areas
Last Updated: February 2025

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Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
• Able to speak fluently and
accurately in all situations
• Proficiency equivalent to
that of a native speaker
E4.0.14: Percent Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Sex To be Survey (self-reported) Post-
of participants Terms • Age completed Program
reporting new • Country of origin by the As a result of your participation
digital applicant in the program, did you gain
Digital skill/competencies – Digital skills are defined as a • Home state
skills/competenc new digital
range of abilities to use digital devices, communication • Race
skills/competencies?
ies gained from
applications, and networks to access and manage • Participant type:
• Yes
virtual exchange
information, and to participate in a virtual program. Skills American, foreign,
(VE) • No
include: knowledge about various low and high-tech reciprocal
programming
technologies (such as the internet, digital video, software
programs, etc.), knowledge of how various technologies
can be used to communicate with others, knowledge
required by teachers for integrating technology into their
classrooms, and/or creating content for various
technologies.
Virtual Exchange - See Definitions of Key Terms
Virtual Elements - See Definitions of Key Terms
Counting Frequency
Each respondent should only be counted once in the
reporting year following their program completion.
Calculations
To determine the percent value, numerator is number of
respondents who respond “yes” to the question, while the
denominator will be the total number of question
respondents. Divide the numerator by the denominator and
then multiply by 100 for the percent value.
Last Updated: February 2025

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Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
This indicator counts participants involved in virtual
exchange programs (see definition above) and WILL NOT
count participants ONLY engaging with virtual program
elements.
ECA Sub-Objective 4.1: Participants engage in language, academic, professional, and cultural programs
E4.1.01: Total Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Sex To be Administrative data from award Annually
number of Terms • Age completed recipients - not collected from
participants • Country of origin by the the participant surveys
(core indicator) Counting Frequency • Home state applicant
Each participant should only be counted once per semi-
• Race
annual reporting cycle following their program completion.
• Participant type:
American, foreign,
reciprocal
E4.1.02: Total Program cohort - A group of participants hosted separately • Cohort type: To be Administrative data from award Annually
number of under a program umbrella and following a set course of inbound, completed recipients - not collected from
program cohorts activities and/or study. For instance: outbound, virtual by the the participant surveys
(core indicator) • IVLP is a program – each individual IVLP project applicant
conducted in a year would be considered a separate
cohort.
• PFP is a program – the two groups of participants
PFP brings to the US each year are each considered
separate cohorts.
• Arts Envoy is a program- each group of artists that
travels is considered a separate cohort. A band or
group of musicians would be considered a cohort
but each individual should be counted separately as
a participant.
Counting Frequency
Last Updated: February 2025

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Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
Each cohort should only be counted once per semi-annual
reporting cycle following its completion.
E4.1.03: Scholarships - Monetary assistance provided by ECA for • Amount: $0-5000; To be Administrative data from award Semi-
Number of students and/or professionals to attend college or university $5001- $10,000; completed recipients - not collected from Annually
ECA-supported abroad. $10,001+ by the the participant surveys
international • Participant type: applicant
scholarships Counting Frequency
American, foreign
All scholarships should be counted even if more than one
provided
scholarship goes to the same individual. Scholarships
should be counted once per semi-annual reporting cycle
during which they were awarded.
E4.1.04: Professional placement - A position placement a participant • Host type: family, To be Administrative data from award Semi-
Number of holds during their exchange program with a host institution business/professio completed recipients - not collected from Annually
professional for the purpose of professional development. These are nal organization, by the the participant surveys
placements most commonly internships, but can also include job academic applicant
shadowing, mentoring or a professional project as well.
institution,
government
Host institution - An institution that provides support to or
agency
benefits from the participation of program participants.
Benefits to this group most often occur through interaction
with the participants and/or alumni during or after the
program.
Professional development - The act of learning and/or
improving skills in order to better meet professional goals.
Professional development activities can include formal
coursework, attending conferences, and informal learning
opportunities situated in practice; i.e. informal peer-to-peer
interaction and learning, or opportunities through
knowledge sharing.
Counting Frequency
Last Updated: February 2025

---

Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
Each placement should only be counted once the placement
has been completed and only once per semi-annual
reporting cycle. If a participant holds more than one
placement during their exchange program, each placement
should be counted.
E4.1.05: Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Sex To be Administrative data from award Semi-
Number of Terms • Age completed recipients - not collected from Annually
participants in • Country of origin by the the participant surveys
programs with a Media literacy component- An educational portion of a applicant
• Home state
media literacy program that focuses on the ability to identify different
• Race
component types of media and the messages they are sending. It
• Participant type:
includes activities such as a training, a talk or seminar on
American, foreign,
media literacy or how to teach media literacy, training for
journalism, connecting participants with media experts or reciprocal
providing resources for media literacy.
Counting Frequency
Each participant should only be counted once per semi-
annual reporting cycle following their program completion.
E4.1.06: Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Sex To be Administrative data from award Semi-
Number of Terms • Age completed recipients - not collected from Annually
participants in • Country of origin by the the participant surveys
programs with Counting Frequency applicant
• Home state
formal, Each participant should only be counted once per semi-
• Race
dedicated annual reporting cycle following their program completion
• Participant type:
language
American, foreign,
learning
reciprocal
activities
E4.1.07: Training - An organized activity that is designed and N/A To be Administrative data from award Semi-
Number of implemented to build capacity and has specific learning completed recipients - not collected from Annually
instruction objectives – expected knowledge, skills and/or by the the participant surveys
methodology competencies to be gained by participants. Trainings of any applicant
length with this purpose should be counted. Building
Last Updated: February 2025

---

Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
trainings capacity means that recipients of training gain increased
implemented knowledge, skills, and/or competencies.
This indicator specifically measures “instruction
methodology” related trainings.
Instruction methodology trainings – Those trainings related
to furthering skills in teaching.
Counting Frequency
Each training should only be counted once per semi-annual
reporting cycle.
E4.1.08: Fellowship - A program that allows students and recent • Sex To be Administrative data from award Semi-
Number of graduates to work with an institution on a specific project • Age completed recipients - not collected from Annually
language to be completed during a set period of time. Fellowships • Home state by the the participant surveys
teaching fellows are explicitly designed to produce academic research applicant
• Race
enrolled and/or increase professional development of the fellow.
Language teaching fellow - Through the English Language
Fellow (EL Fellow) and Virtual Educator Programs, highly
qualified U.S. educators in the field of Teaching English to
Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) participate in 10-
month-long fellowships at academic institutions throughout
the world.
Counting Frequency
The number of fellows enrolled in the current reporting
year should be counted. Fellows are considered enrolled if
they have started their program. Fellows should only be
counted once per semi-annual reporting cycle even if they
participate in multiple fellowships concurrently.
E4.1.11: Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Sex To be Administrative data from award Annually
Number of Terms • Age completed recipients - not collected from
American • Home state the participant surveys
Last Updated: February 2025

---

Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
reciprocal Reciprocal Exchange Participant - An American who • Race by the
exchange travels to an exchange participant’s home country to assist applicant
participants the participant with their individual project.
Counting Frequency
Each participant should only be counted once per semi-
annual reporting cycle following their program completion
E4.1.13: Fellowship - A fellowship is a program that allows students • Sex To be Administrative data from award Semi-
Number of and recent graduates to work with an institution on a • Age completed recipients - not collected from Annually
fellows specific project to be completed during the fellowship • Home state by the the participant surveys
completing period. Fellowships are explicitly designed to produce applicant
• Race
language academic research and/or increase professional
development of the fellow.
teaching
fellowships
Language teaching fellow - Through the English Language
Fellow (EL Fellow) and Virtual Educator Programs, highly
qualified U.S. educators in the field of Teaching English to
Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) participate in 10-
month-long fellowships at academic institutions throughout
the world.
Counting Frequency
The number of fellows enrolled in the current reporting
year should be counted. Fellows should only be counted
once per semi-annual reporting cycle even if they
participate in multiple fellowships concurrently
E4.1.14: Virtual Exchange - See Definitions of Key Terms N/A To be Administrative data from award Annually
Number of completed recipients - not collected from
virtual exchange Program - The overarching umbrella under which all by the the participant surveys
(VE) programs activities take place. Or alternatively, it is the official name applicant
that is listed in ACPD’s comprehensive annual report on
public diplomacy and international broadcasting
Last Updated: February 2025

---

Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
Program components - The individual program activities
that cohorts participate in.
Counting frequency
Each program should only be counted once in the annual
reporting cycle (by tasker
E4.1.15: Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Sex To be Administrative data from award Annually
Number of Terms • Age completed recipients - not collected from
participants in • Country of origin by the the participant surveys
virtual exchange Virtual Exchange - See Definitions of Key Terms applicant
• Home state
(VE) programs
• Race
Virtual elements - See Definitions of Key Terms
• Participant type:
American, foreign,
Counting Frequency
Each respondent should only be counted once in the reciprocal
reporting year following their program completion.
Calculations
This indicator counts participants involved in virtual
exchange programs (see definition above) and WILL NOT
count participants engaging with virtual program elements.
Each participant should only be counted once per semi-
annual reporting cycle following their program completion
E4.1.16: Audience member - A person who attends an event and is N/A To be Administrative data from award Followin
Number of not a program participant. completed recipients - not collected from g each
audience by the the participant surveys event
members Cultural events - Can include events such as concerts or applicant
attending movie screenings; these can be hosted in the United States
or abroad but must be done in conjunction with an ECA
cultural events
program.
Counting Frequency
Audience members should be counted following each
event.
Last Updated: February 2025

---

Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
ECA Sub-Objective 4.2: Increase ability of participants to recognize and counter disinformation
E4.2.01: Percent Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key • Sex To be Survey (self-reported data) Post-
of participants Terms • Age completed Program
that report
• Country of origin
by the How would you rate your
increased ability Disinformation - False or misleading information that is applicant ability to do each of the
• Home state
to counter spread deliberately to deceive. Disinformation can include following now compared to
• Race
disinformation authentic information or true facts that are used in the before program participation?
wrong context to make false connections, or it can be • Participant type: For each, please indicate if your
outright false information or propaganda. American, foreign, ability increased, stayed the
reciprocal same, or decreased.
Counting Frequency • Validate information I see in
Each respondent should only be counted once in the the media
reporting year following their program completion. • Identify accurate information
• Think critically about
Calculations information I see online
To determine the percent value, numerator is number of • Evaluate everyday
respondents that replied “Increased” for at least one information I receive from
question item while the denominator will be the total multiple sources
number of question respondents. Divide the numerator by • Identify false information
the denominator and then multiply by 100 for the percent
value. [Scale: Decreased, Stayed the
same, Increased]
ECA Objective 8: Enhance the quality and effectiveness of ECA programs by leveraging the Bureau’s resources, policy, and stakeholder relationships
E8.0.03: Participant or Exchange Visitor – See Definitions of Key N/A 60% Survey Records Post-
Response rate Terms Program
for participant
surveys Counting Frequency
(core indicator) Response rates will be calculated and reported semi-
annually on surveys that closed (i.e. ceased allowing
respondents to respond) in that six-month period, even if
the survey opened in the previous six-month period. This
may be a single survey or an aggregation, if more than one
Last Updated: February 2025

---

Performance Definition Disagg. Target Data Source and Required* When to
Indicator Survey Question Collect
survey closed in that six-month period. Each survey
invitation should be counted once, and each response (if
received) should be counted once.
Calculations
The response rate will be calculated by dividing the
number of survey responses received by the number of
survey invitations issued (sent by email or directly invited
in some other way).
Note that “survey responses” will include cases in which
any portion of a survey was returned (at least one piece of
response data provided). It will not include cases where
respondents opened the survey and opted out by selecting
the option not to continue on the opening consent screen.
Last Updated: February 2025

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FY 2026 National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y) NOFO

U.S. Department of State
Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA)
Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)
FY 2026 National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y)
Funding Opportunity Number: DFOP0017852
Application Deadline: May 1, 2026
A. Basic Information
B. Eligibility
C. Program Description
D. Application Contents and Format
E. Submission Requirements and Deadlines
F. Application Review Information
G. Award Notices
H. Post-Award Requirements and Administration
I. Other Information
A. Basic Information
1. Overview
Funding Opportunity Title FY 2026 National Security Language Initiative
for Youth (NSLI-Y)
Funding Opportunity DFOP0017852
Number
Announcement Type New Cooperative Agreement
Deadline for Applications May 1, 2026, 11:59pm Eastern (Washington DC
time)
Assistance Listing Number 19.415
Length of Performance 30 to 33 months
Period

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Number of Awards 1 award
Anticipated
Award Amount Award approximately $5,000,000
Amounts
Total Available Funding $5,000,000
Type of Funding FY26 Educational and Cultural Exchange
Programs (ECE) Funds
Funding Instrument Type Cooperative Agreement
Anticipated Award Date July 1, 2026
This notice is subject to availability of funding. Issuance of the NOFO does not
constitute an award commitment on the part of the Government.
ECA reserves the right to reduce, revise, or increase proposal budgets in
accordance with the needs of the program and the availability of funds.
Pending satisfactory implementation of this program and the availability of funds in
subsequent fiscal years, it is ECA's intent to renew this award for two additional,
consecutive fiscal years, before openly competing it again.
2. Executive Summary
The Office of Citizen Exchanges of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs
(ECA) is pleased to announce an open competition for proposals to administer the
FY 2026 National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y) program. NSLI-Y
increases the number of American youth (ages 15 to 18) who learn critical foreign
languages in support of bolstering U.S. national security; promoting U.S.
competitiveness and economic prosperity; and building mutual understanding with
critical regions of the world. The award will support approximately 275 American
teens to study critical languages through intensive overseas language programs in
locations where the target languages are widely spoken, and through virtual
programming. U.S. public and private non-profit organizations, meeting the
provisions described in Internal Revenue Code section 26 USC 501(c)(3), may submit
proposals to cooperate with ECA in the overall administration of NSLI-Y and the

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implementation of summer, academic year, and virtual programs according to the
guidance in this solicitation.
B. Eligibility
1. Eligible Applicants
The following organizations are eligible to apply:
• U.S. not-for-profit organizations, including think tanks and civil society/non-
governmental organizations
• U.S. not-for-profit public and private educational institutions
Please see the Proposal Submission Instructions (PSI) for additional information.
2. Cost Sharing
There is no minimum or maximum percentage of cost sharing required for this
program.
3. Other Eligibility Requirements
a. All organizations must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) issued via
SAM.gov as well as a valid registration in SAM.gov. Please see Section E.
Submission Requirements and Deadlines for more information.
b. ECA’s Grant Guidelines require that organizations demonstrate at least four
years of experience in conducting international exchanges to be eligible for
awards exceeding $130,000 in ECA funding. As noted in Section A. Basic
Information, ECA anticipates issuing one award, for approximately
$5,000,000. Therefore, organizations must demonstrate four years of
experience in conducting international exchanges in your proposal to be
eligible to apply under this competition.
c. All proposals must comply with the requirements stated in the NOFO, and
the PSI; not doing so may result in your proposal being declared technically
ineligible and given no further consideration in the review process.
d. All proposals must contain a SF-424, executive summary, proposal narrative,
budget (SF 424A), detailed line-item budget, and budget narrative.
e. Only one proposal will be considered by ECA from each applicant
organization. In cases where more than one submission from an applicant

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appears in grants.gov, ECA will only consider the submission made closest in
time to the NOFO deadline; that submission would constitute the one and
only proposal ECA would review from that applicant.
Please note: Applicant organizations are defined by their legal name, and
EIN number as stated on their completed SF-424 and additional supporting
documentation.
f. Applicants who are current recipients of awards directly from ECA should
make sure the application details one or more award that will be open with
ECA at the start of the anticipated period of performance for this NOFO.
Applicants who do not have current awards directly with ECA, please review
the information in the PSI, section D, with additional information that must
be provided in your application in order for it to be eligible.
C. Program Description
1. Authority
Overall grant making authority for this program is contained in the Mutual
Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961, Public Law 87-256, as amended,
also known as the Fulbright-Hays Act. The purpose of the Act is "to enable the
Government of the United States to increase mutual understanding between the
people of the United States and the people of other countries...; to strengthen the
ties which unite us with other nations by demonstrating the educational and
cultural interests, developments, and achievements of the people of the United
States and other nations...and thus to assist in the development of friendly,
sympathetic and peaceful relations between the United States and the other
countries of the world." The funding authority for the program above is provided
through legislation.
2. Purpose
The NSLI-Y program is designed to increase the number of young Americans with
linguistic and cultural skills necessary to advance American interests on the global
stage. Launched in 2006 to address the deficit of speakers of critical languages in
the United States, NSLI-Y creates a pipeline of American youth with linguistic and
professional skills needed for a wide variety of careers that directly strengthen U.S.
national security and economic competitiveness.

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NSLI-Y in-person overseas immersive programs and virtual programs accelerate
and advance participants’ language skills through structured classroom language
instruction as well as less formal interactive and applied learning opportunities.
Virtual NSLI-Y is a 10-week virtual program for U.S. high school students who are at
the absolute beginner level and have not studied the target language before. It
provides students with an introduction to the target language and culture with the
goal of sparking an interest in critical languages and regions and inspiring students
to continue their studies both domestically and abroad.
3. Program Specific Guidelines
The FY 2026 award will be executed as a cooperative agreement between ECA and a
single award recipient. The award will fund approximately 275 current or recently
graduated American high school students to study Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin),
Korean, or Russian in overseas summer and academic year programs, or virtually.
Overseas programs will take place in countries and locations where the target
language is widely spoken. Program locations and local host institution partners
are subject to annual ECA approval. The award also supports programming for
NSLI-Y alumni since the program’s inception in 2006, totaling over 10,000 alumni to
date.
IMPLEMENTATION OF OVERSEAS PROGRAMS
In FY 2026, the NSLI-Y program anticipates supporting approximately 215
participants in NSLI-Y programs located outside the United States. NSLI-Y overseas
programs provide intensive language instruction in a classroom setting, as well as
immersion in the cultural, social, and educational life of the receiving
country/location for six to eight weeks over the summer or for an academic year.
NSLI-Y overseas programs maximize language acquisition and cultural learning
opportunities through a host family experience, language partners, and cultural
activities.
The applicant may propose directly implementing overseas programs and may also
identify and manage qualified organizations as sub-recipients to implement
overseas programs, as needed. The applicant must work with all sub-recipients to
design, plan, and implement NSLI-Y overseas programs that focus on language
acquisition and cultural immersion. The applicant must demonstrate that each

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implementing organization has significant and relevant experience and expertise in
planning and carrying out programs in the respective language(s) and
country(ies)/location(s) where it proposes to implement the program(s). All
implementing organizations must be capable of handling emergencies and on-
program support (OPS) issues in a timely and transparent way that permits
information to be conveyed to the award recipient and to ECA. Once the award is
in place and with ECA concurrence, additional sub-award implementing
organizations may be added into the program if needed to meet program
requirements. The applicant is responsible for ensuring that all NSLI-Y overseas
programs maintain program standards and meet all program requirements.
For FY 2026, NSLI-Y anticipates supporting the following languages. Applicants are
encouraged to maximize participant numbers and propose a greater number of
participants per language, when possible, within the limitations of the budget:
• Arabic: approximately 38 for summer; approximately eight for academic
year. Programs may be proposed countries/locations in North Africa, the
Middle East, or the Gulf region, with the exception of Iraq, Libya, Lebanon,
Palestinian Territories, Syria, and Yemen.
• Chinese (Mandarin): approximately 75 for summer; approximately eight for
academic year. Programs may be proposed for Taiwan.
• Korean: approximately 36 for summer. Programs may be proposed for the
Republic of Korea (South Korea).
• Russian: approximately 42 for summer; approximately eight for academic
year. Programs may be proposed for Central Asia and the Baltic States.
Programs should not be proposed for Russia, Ukraine, or Belarus.
An adequate number of alternates should be identified to replace finalists who
may drop out prior to the start of the program. Programs should be proposed for
all four languages, but do not need to be proposed for all potential locations.
Specific locations should be where the target language is widely used in everyday
life and conditions are suitable for implementation of a youth program.
ECA will select – and reserves the right to make changes to – eligible countries,
locations, languages, number of proposed participants by language, program
components, or other elements of the program design or implementation,
considering any Department of State Travel Advisories and other relevant safety
and security concerns, the availability of funding, or other factors determined by
ECA. ECA reserves the right to transition one or more overseas programs to a

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virtual format if needed to ensure the health and safety of the participants, the
integrity of the program, or for other reasons. The proposal should demonstrate
flexibility and creativity in program administration in response to natural events,
disasters, or crises. Such conditions may create significant challenges to normal
or routine program administration.
As part of emergency planning, all applicants must present a plan for transitioning
some or all of the proposed NSLI-Y overseas sites to a virtual format, if deemed
necessary by ECA. The final slate of all site locations and partners is subject to
approval by ECA.
a. Overseas Program Design:
Unless otherwise directed by ECA, duration, dates, and size of overseas programs
shall be as follows:
• Duration: Each proposed summer program should be six – eight weeks in
country, not including the pre-program orientation. Each proposed academic
year program should be eight – ten months.
• Dates: summer programs should take place in summer 2026 (June to mid-
August), academic year programs should take place between September 2026 –
May 2027.
• Size: The number of participants proposed per overseas site must consider the
capability of each proposed site to provide a quality academic program, housing,
and support to participants in all aspects of the program and especially for any
safety or health issues that may arise. For overseas NSLI-Y programs, applicants
should propose a minimum of five participants for each academic year program;
and a minimum of 10 participants for each summer program.
For each language offered, multiple levels of language instruction must be offered
to support students at the complete beginner to Advanced levels on the ACTFL
scale, or equivalent.
Ensure that the overseas NSLI-Y program is comprehensive and consistent across
all implementing organizations, and covers the following expenses:
• Travel: Round-trip travel between the participant’s city of official
residence, to the pre-departure orientation location, and to the overseas
NSLI-Y program location.

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• Orientations: Pre-departure, arrival, mid-program (academic year only),
and re-entry.
• Visas: Receiving country entry/exit and transit visas, as needed.
• Tuition and related academic expenses: Including support and testing
for placement and language acquisition.
• Educational and cultural programming: Including overseas language-
focused excursions, volunteer opportunities, and guided internships, if
applicable.
• Meals: Three meals per day.
• Accommodations: A host family for the entirety of each program is
preferred; if students are in a dormitory or other supervised group
housing for part of the exchange, there must be a host family stay for part
of the program.
• Health Benefits: Accident and Sickness Program for Exchanges (ASPE)
health benefits, provided by the U.S. Department of State, or equivalent
health benefits.
• Stipend: To cover additional living expenses if needed, as determined by
in-country implementer and approved by award recipient.
• Cell phones: Including related expenses as outlined in the solicitation.
• Additional Funds: The NSLI-Y Program may cover incidentals in addition
to the stipend, such as medical expenses, in cases of unusual hardship, as
determined by the award recipient(s) and approved by ECA.
The NSLI-Y Program does not cover the following:
• Passports: Costs associated with obtaining a valid U.S. passport, except
in cases of unusual hardship, as determined by the award recipient and
approved by ECA.
• Medical: Required medical examinations and immunizations needed to
travel to the receiving country or routine medical checkups.
• Incidentals: Pocket money outside of the stipend for souvenirs or
additional events such as movies, ice skating, etc., except in cases of
unusual hardship, as determined by the award recipient, in collaboration
with ECA.
The applicant must integrate the following components into program design
at each site.

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Design and Implement Overseas Language Programs: Design, plan, and
implement overseas programs focused on language acquisition and cultural
immersion, and work with implementing organizations to do the same for the
programs they implement. The applicant will develop program standards and
requirements in consultation with ECA and ensure that each implementing
organization maintains program standards and meets all program requirements.
The applicant and each implementing organization should provide a detailed
program schedule for each program location. Program schedules must clearly
delineate language instruction, cultural enrichment activities, and community
service activities. Activities should be designed to ensure participants focus on the
target language and culture. Schedules must be provided well in advance of the
start of the programs for review by the award recipient and ECA.
Proficiency Goals, Curriculum, and Teacher Training: In consultation with ECA,
propose, implement, and maintain appropriate standards and proficiency goals
across program sites. Ensure that language instruction and program design is
based on relevant standards and pedagogical best practices at each program site.
Ensure that each program site creates a curriculum in line with NSLI-Y proficiency
goals and conducts appropriate teacher training. Evaluate program sites on
meeting NSLI-Y language goals and provide feedback to program implementers.
Language Instruction Standards: Develop, implement, and monitor language
instruction standards for language instruction in the classroom and language-
focused cultural activities and excursions for all NSLI-Y programs to meet NSLI-Y
expected proficiency outcomes. Ensure that all summer programs include a
minimum of 120 hours of classroom language instruction. Ensure that all academic
year programs include a minimum average of ten hours per week of classroom
language instruction for most weeks of the academic year. For both summer and
academic year programs, classroom language instruction should generally not
exceed five hours per day.
Language Assessment Placement Plan: Develop an assessment plan to measure
the appropriate levels of instruction for participants at the start of and during the
program. Ensure overseas implementing organizations are complying with the
placement plan and placing participants in appropriate classes based on proficiency
level.
Level of Instruction: Provide group classes to participants based on their
language proficiency. Participants with widely varying levels of language knowledge

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must not be placed in the same class. In general, classes should be limited to
approximately 12 or fewer students. Overseas implementing organizations must
be informed of student language levels prior to the program start date to make
appropriate student groupings, assign qualified teachers, and adapt the curriculum
as needed.
Language Instruction in the Primary Target Language and Local Dialect: A
minimum of 70% of language instruction time must be devoted to the primary
target language. A maximum of 30% of class time may be allotted to the local
dialect, if applicable. This ensures that NSLI-Y students receive sufficient instruction
in the primary target language and are given enough language instruction to be
able to communicate with their host families and others in the local community.
For Arabic, students should understand in which situations it is appropriate to use
Modern Standard Arabic and in which situations it is appropriate to use dialect.
This breakdown may be changed in consultation with ECA.
Enrichment Activities/Community Engagement: Include cultural enrichment
activities that reinforce language learning, such as planned excursions, guided
internships, activities with local peers, and extra-curricular activities. Cultural
activities should enhance the participants’ understanding of contemporary society,
culture, media, political institutions, history, of the receiving country. Activities
must be language-focused and promote NSLI-Y goals and objectives. The award
recipient should consult with ECA to develop, to the extent possible, enrichment
activities that align with foreign policy priorities.
Language Partners: Propose a plan to integrate language partners into the
program design at each program site so that participants have an opportunity to
engage with local peers outside of the classroom and connect to the local culture
and community.
Community Service: Arrange or help facilitate volunteer community service
activities during the academic year that provide opportunities for language practice
and enhance understanding of local culture and society. ECA reserves the right to
waive this requirement in situations where volunteer work is deemed inappropriate
or risky. Community service for summer programs is optional.
Housing: Arrange appropriate housing during the program. All overseas programs
must include a host family stay for all or part of the program to maximize
participants’ exposure to their target language and culture. A host family for the

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entirety of each overseas program is preferred. Develop a process for identifying
and screening host families for suitability. Ensure that proper host family reference
checks are conducted, recorded, and maintained. Records must be kept for three
years and made available to ECA upon request. Provide host families with a
substantive orientation and maintain regular contact with host families throughout
the program to answer questions and address concerns. Host families must have
adequate financial resources to undertake hosting obligations and may receive
reasonable reimbursement to cover the costs associated with hosting a student,
but not to serve as a financial incentive. The amounts of any stipends or
allowances provided to host families should be justified based on the receiving
country’s local economy. All implementing organizations must maintain regular, at
minimum monthly, contact with host families to answer questions, provide
information, and assist in working out problems. Obtain concurrence from the U.S.
Embassy/Consulate/AIT Public Diplomacy Section on the general locations of host
families.
Ensure that non-host family housing arrangements, such as dormitories or group
housing, provide safe, appropriate, and supervised living accommodations.
Identify, screen, and orient the individual(s) responsible for supervising the
participants in the group living environments.
Meals: Provide participants with three meals a day for the duration on the
program. It is expected that the majority of meals will be provided by host families,
educational institutions, and/or arranged group meals with other students.
Participant stipends should cover the costs of additional meals as needed.
Stipends: Participant stipends are allowable for participants to cover incidental
expenses. If proposed, all participants within one country and on the same
duration of program (summer or academic year) should receive the same stipend
amount, regardless of implementing organization.
U.S. Embassy Liaison and Consultation: Ensure that all implementing
organizations and overseas partners establish a working relationship with the
Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) of the relevant U.S. embassy, consulate, or the
American Institute in Taiwan (AIT). During the program-planning phase,
implementing organizations must contact PDS to obtain concurrence on program
placement locations, including the host language institution/host school, and host
family or other long-term accommodation locations (regions neighborhoods, etc.).

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Implementing organizations must invite the PDS to participate in the arrival
orientation and request a briefing by the embassy’s Regional Security Officer or
other U.S. embassy/consulate/AIT official to address matters of safety and security.
If the program site is not in a city with an embassy/consulate/AIT, the implementing
organization should consider routing travel through a city that will allow for
embassy/consulate/AIT involvement. If an in-person briefing is not feasible, the
implementing organization must provide a virtual briefing.
Implementing organizations should consult PDS staff regarding proposed activities with
participants and/or alumni of other ECA programs. Implementing organizations
should invite PDS staff to participate in NSLI-Y program events, as appropriate. If
the political situation in any location results in the need for the embassy/AIT to
assume more responsibility, the overseas implementing organization should work
with the embassy/AIT as appropriate.
Staffing: Identify a lead for each program site. Ensure that all program sites are
appropriately staffed and have the physical space (i.e., classrooms, common areas)
to ensure the successful delivery of high-quality language immersion program and
provide adequate support and guidance to participants.
Assign and train a Resident Director/Local Coordinator who speaks both English and
the target language to each program site. The Resident Director/Local Coordinator
serves as the primary on-site resource and supports participants regarding
academic, social, disciplinary, and/or personal issues on program.
Resident Director/Local Coordinator Training and Support: Facilitate additional
training for resident directors, local coordinators, or other equivalent in country staff
who implement student on-program support. Trainings and support systems
should be flexible and able to provide needed assistance across the program
regardless of local technology or staffing structure. Funds may be used to send staff
to private trainings in limited situations. Plans for training should be discussed with
ECA in advance of the training.
b. Participant Monitoring and Support
Participant Monitoring: Participant well-being is a top priority of the U.S.
Department of State. The applicant must propose a plan for monitoring
participants’ safety and welfare while on program that parallels, to the greatest
extent possible, the standards for J-1 visa regulations for international secondary

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school students found in 22 CFR 62. This includes the identification and use of
appropriate means of verifying the integrity and suitability of each host family.
Ensure that all implementing organizations and any volunteers and staff who have
regular contact with the NSLI-Y participants have undergone screening for
suitability.
In keeping with the J-1 visa regulations, immediately report to ECA any incident or
allegation involving the actual or alleged sexual exploitation, harassment, or abuse
or harm of an exchange student participant. Furthermore, inform ECA promptly of
any behavior, incident, or serious problem that could result in a request for program
dismissal and/or bring the Department of State or the exchange program into
notoriety or disrepute. The award recipient must ensure that all implementing
organizations have a plan for monitoring participants on a regular basis and provide
adequate support and guidance to participants during their program. All
implementing organizations must maintain, at a minimum, a monthly schedule of
personal contact with the participant and monthly contact with the host family,
addressing legitimate concerns in a timely fashion and apprising ECA in a timely
manner about significant issues. All records and data collected, including survey
responses and contact information, must be maintained for a minimum of three
years and be provided to ECA upon request.
Overseas program staff should be available to participants throughout the duration
of the program to help ensure health, safety, and emotional well-being of
participants and deal effectively with misunderstandings, adjustment issues, and
emergencies. Staff roles and responsibilities should be clearly defined and
explained to participants. The award recipient must provide guidance and training
to overseas staff on handling student support issues. Each program site must have
a trained, English-speaking Resident Director/Local Coordinator whose primary
responsibility is participant support. The award recipient must ensure that all staff
who have regular contact with participants have undergone a reasonable level of
screening for suitability and adhere to professional standards of conduct, including
standards on sexual harassment and abuse.
The award recipient must ensure that all participants abide by U.S. and local laws;
the NSLI-Y Terms and Conditions; and other program standards and requirements.
In consultation with ECA, the award recipient must develop disciplinary procedures
that include ECA approval for termination and dismissal from program. Convey

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serious issues and concerns to ECA in a timely fashion and inform ECA immediately
of any requests from participants to voluntarily leave the program.
In addition, in order to ensure participant safety and well-being, applicants must
provide a comprehensive plan to address emergencies that may occur before or
during the program that may impact individual participants or the entire group. The
plan must clearly identify lines of responsibility and communication with ECA, sub-
recipients, institute staff, participants, and appropriate U.S.
Embassies/Consulates/AIT.
Applicants must also develop a plan to implement some or all of the language
programs virtually if deemed necessary by ECA. Virtual programming should include
language instruction, language partner activities, cultural enrichment activities, pre-
and post-program language assessment, program monitoring and outcome
tracking, and participant support mechanisms.
On-Program Support (OPS): Management of OPS is among the most important
functions. The award recipient must provide support to participants in dealing
effectively with misunderstandings, adjustment issues, and emergencies, provide
guidance to implementing organizations on handling OPS issues, as necessary, and
promptly convey serious issues and concerns to ECA. Management of OPS must be
detailed in a monitoring plan included in the proposal. The award recipient must
work with ECA in developing a communication and reporting plan to
ECA/Embassy/Consulate/AIT on OPS issues.
Emergency Contact Information and Access: Supply each participant with a cell
phone, charger, and provider service to ensure a way to communicate with in-
country representatives in an emergency. Ensure that ECA, participants, and their
parents/guardians have access to emergency contact information for the award
recipient, the U.S.-based implementing organization, and the overseas
implementing organization prior to international departure
c. Pre-Program Planning and Activities
The award recipient will be responsible for the following pre-program
responsibilities and requirements:
Terms and Conditions: In consultation with ECA, develop the NSLI-Y Terms and
Conditions for the overseas programs. The key conditions, benefits, and terms of

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the program should be fully described to candidates and their legal guardians
before they accept the award. Ensure that all participants and their legal guardians
agree to and sign the Terms and Conditions, as well as other forms and documents
as required by ECA.
Release Form: Share with all participants and their legal guardians the official
Minor Participant Name and/or Likeness Release form provided by ECA to permit
the award recipient, implementing organizations, Department of State, and United
States Government to use their image and name for program promotion or other
similar purposes.
Medical Clearance: Propose a process to collect and evaluate health history
information for finalists and alternates to ensure that participants can participate in
the program safely. Work with ECA and implementing organizations to make
reasonable accommodations for participants as needed. Protect all Personally
Identifiable Information (PII).
Health Benefits: Enroll participants in the Bureau's Accident and Sickness Program
for Exchanges (ASPE) health benefits program and facilitate claims as necessary.
Applicants may propose using a different health plan for participants but must
demonstrate that the alternate plan provides comparable or more comprehensive
coverage. Coverage must begin when students depart the United States and
conclude when they return to the United States. A copy of the alternate health
insurance policy should be included with the proposal.
Travel Arrangements: Arrange related domestic and international round-trip
travel for participants for program participation. Ensure that implementing
organizations arrange all travel in accordance with the Fly America Act. Provide an
adult flight chaperone with necessary language skills for group flights to and from all
overseas destinations, unless this requirement is waived by the award recipient with
ECA's concurrence. Provide dates of international and domestic travel to ECA in
advance of travel.
Travel Documents: Provide information to participants about obtaining valid U.S.
passports. Facilitate and pay costs for obtaining all necessary visas, including transit
visas.
Standardized Language Assessment: In consultation with ECA, identify and use a
standardized language assessment tool to evaluate the baseline (pre-program) and

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post-program oral proficiency language skills of participants in the overseas
programs. After the completion of the post-program assessments, provide ECA with
the assessment results, including analyses by language and program site. Share
results with implementing partners and if necessary, work with implementing
partners on program adjustments if needed.
Communication with Participants: Ensure that implementing organizations
contact participants in a timely fashion in advance of departure to provide them
with program information, language preparation materials, flight details, and
accommodations information. Communicate with participants to address any
concerns or questions during the program.
STEP Registration: Provide information to all participants and their legal guardians
about the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and
ensure that all participants are registered in STEP prior to the start of the program.
d. Orientations
Pre-Departure Orientation (PDO): Ensure that all NSLI-Y programs include a
substantive participant PDO held in a logistically convenient location. Invite ECA to
participate in all PDOs and provide copies of agendas to ECA in advance. Provide
guidance to implementing organizations to ensure that all key topics are covered
and a common approach to PDOs is maintained across programs. Topics must
include, but are not limited to, program goals and expectations, cross-cultural
training, receiving country information, language program tips and requirements,
personal safety and security, mental health, online safety, and information on
identifying and reporting sexual harassment and abuse. Ensure that each
participant receives the name and contact information for the participant’s resident
director and/or local coordinator, an emergency contact, and health benefits
information. Emphasize to participants that NSLI-Y is a U.S. Department of State
program.
In-Country Partner Orientation: Orient all in-country teaching staff and
administrators about NSLI-Y goals and objectives, required language classroom
hours, learning styles of American high school students, and relevant safety and
security guidelines in advance of the arrival of NSLI-Y participants.
Host Family Orientations: Ensure that all host families receive an orientation that
includes information about NSLI-Y goals and objectives (indicating it is a U.S.

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Department of State program), responsibilities of being a host parent, support
available to host families, and an introduction to the inter-cultural experience of
hosting an American high school student.
Arrival Orientation: Organize an in-country arrival orientation. Contact the
embassy/consulate/AIT far in advance of arrival to arrange participation in the
orientation, as noted above. Inform participants of relevant local and country-
specific information including personal and general safety considerations, as well as
emergency services offered by the embassy/consulate/AIT to American citizens.
Mid-Program Workshop: All academic year programs must include a mid-program
workshop during which participants share and reflect upon their experiences,
discuss concerns, and speak one-on-one with the resident director/local
coordinator.
Re-entry Orientation: Provide a re-entry orientation to prepare participants for
their return to the United States. Re-entry orientations must include a discussion of
the following topics: required post-program language testing; post-program
evaluation; tips for cultural re-entry; ideas for future language study; information
about other U.S. government scholarships for continued language study; internships
and careers that utilize language skills; and suggestions for sharing the NSLI-Y
experience with other individuals and groups in the United States. The re-entry
orientation should also encourage participants to join the NSLI-Y alumni association
and register on the Department’s International Exchange Alumni website
(https://alumni.state.gov).
Academic Year Programs should include a re-entry workshop component in the
Washington, D.C. area to allow for returning participants to share their experiences
with ECA if feasible and cost-effective.
IMPLEMENTATION OF VIRTUAL PROGRAMMING
The award recipient will be responsible for implementing Virtual NSLI-Y. In FY 2026,
NSLI-Y anticipates supporting approximately 60 students in virtual programs.
For Virtual NSLI-Y, the award recipient must design, plan, and implement online
language learning programs at the beginner level. The award recipient should
recruit qualified and vetted online instructors to provide a minimum of 30 hours of
live, interactive online classroom instruction at the novice level via a
videoconference platform. Teachers should receive orientation to the goals of the

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program and maintain an appropriate curriculum for language instruction based on
participant level, relevant standards and pedagogical best practices for online
learning. The curriculum should also include cultural learning opportunities and
activities such as guest speakers, virtual tours of historic sites, peer engagement, etc.
Student progress and learning outcomes will be evaluated by teachers through
assignments and quizzes.
The program should take place during the Fall or Spring terms and should take place
after school at a time that accommodates students from multiple time zones. Class
sizes should be limited to approximately 10 students. For FY 2026 NSLI-Y anticipates
supporting the following languages for virtual programing:
• Arabic: Approximately 20 participants.
• Chinese (Mandarin): Approximately 20 participants.
• Russian: Approximately 20 participants.
For Virtual NSLI-Y, ensure the program covers the following expenses:
• Language Instruction: A minimum of 10-weeks/30 hours of instruction with
an experienced language instructor through videoconferencing tools.
• Program materials/textbooks.
• Virtual Cultural learning and cultural enrichment activities.
• Digital Platform: For assignments, projects, etc., if needed.
• Certificate of Program Completion: All templates should be approved by
ECA.
Participant costs for NSLI-Y virtual programming do not cover the following:
• Travel of any kind
• Internet access, software, or hardware
• Stipend
• Health benefits
a. Other Deliverables for Virtual NSLI-Y
The award recipient will also be responsible for the following:
Terms and Conditions: In consultation with ECA, determine terms and conditions
and other program standards for Virtual NSLI-Y. Ensure participants abide by the
terms and conditions on program and that all participants and their parents/legal

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guardians sign the Virtual NSLI-Y Terms and Condition prior to the start of the
program.
Monitoring Participants: Develop a plan to monitor participant safety,
performance, participation, and wellbeing on a regular basis in an online
environment and manage on-program support issues effectively. Ensure that
Virtual NSLI-Y implementing organizations and any volunteers and staff who have
regular contact with the NSLI-Y participants have undergone screening for
suitability. Develop a plan for providing reasonable accommodation for students
with disabilities. Provide on-program support reports to ECA concerning serious or
disciplinary issues, including recommendations for dismissal.
Communication with Participants: Ensure that information about program
arrangements and logistics is communicated to participants in a timely fashion.
Orientations: Provide a virtual pre-program orientation for participants which
covers key topics such as program goals and expectations, and instructions for
using the online platform(s). Ensure that each participant receives the name and
contact information for program staff who can assist with technical questions or
issues on program. Provide a virtual post-program closing ceremony that
celebrates the success of program participants and connects them to future critical
language study opportunities.
NSLI-Y PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION
The award recipient will be responsible for managing the administrative
components of the NSLI-Y program comprising the following key areas of
responsibility: recruitment, outreach, and program promotion; application,
selection, and notification of participants; and alumni programing and tracking.
The award recipient will also be responsible for program planning and
management and financial oversight and reporting as it relates to the award.
a. Recruitment, Outreach, and Program Promotion
Outreach and Recruitment: Propose a comprehensive outreach plan to publicize
the NSLI-Y program broadly and to recruit a strong pool of qualified candidates.
The outreach and recruitment plan should describe how the NSLI-Y program will be
publicized to potential applicants, to U.S. high schools and other relevant
organizations, and to the general public. Outreach efforts should be robust and

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aim for a quality pool of semifinalists and alternates from all 50 U.S. states. Plans
should clearly outline what materials and strategies, such as printed material, social
media, etc., will be used to reach recruitment goals. The recruitment plan will be
subject to ongoing coordination and approval by ECA. ECA may request that the
award recipient collaborate with other ECA-sponsored programs on some outreach
activities. Ensure that the following minimum criteria are used for recruitment.
Eligibility Criteria for Overseas Programs: NSLI-Y participants must be:
• U.S. citizens;
• 15 to 18 years of age at the approximate beginning of the program
(beginning of the program can be defined as early as when the scholarship is
accepted; one cut-off date for summer programs and one for academic year
programs is allowed);
• Enrolled in high school or equivalent home school program at the time of
application; and,
• Have a minimum 2.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale or equivalent.
• Adhere to the ECA eligibility policy, including for alumni of NSLI-Y and other
ECA Youth Programs Division exchange programs.
Eligibility Criteria for Virtual NSLI-Y Programs: Virtual NSLI-Y participants must
be:
• U.S. citizens;
• 15 to 18 years of age at the approximate beginning of the program
(beginning of the program can be defined as early as when the scholarship is
accepted);
• Enrolled in a high school or equivalent for the 2027-28 academic year;
• Living in and attending school in the United States;
• Beginner in the target language; and,
• Has not previously participated in any NSLI-Y program or another U.S.
Department of State exchange program
ECA reserves the right to amend the eligibility requirements and will provide
additional eligibility requirements to the recipient organization.
Print and Electronic Materials: Ensure that all print and electronic materials
(online application, websites, digital resources, brochures, press releases,
announcements, etc.) developed for promotional purposes and related to the
program comply with ECA’s Communications Guidance. Use the U.S. Department of

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State seal, the U.S. flag, and the NSLI-Y logo on all materials related to the program
as delineated in ECA’s Communications Guidance. Obtain ECA concurrence on all
print and electronic materials related to NSLI-Y in advance of publication and
distribution. ECA retains copyright use of, and may distribute, materials related to
this program as it sees fit.
Publicity: On a regular and timely basis, provide ECA with participant, alumni and
program highlights, photos, videos, press coverage, and any content that may be
used to publicize the program. Inform ECA of any publicity that highlights the NSLI-
Y program or NSLI-Y participants, or otherwise strengthens recruitment and
outreach efforts, particularly those that involve government officials and the media.
When the media interacts with NSLI-Y participants or alumni, the award recipient
should make every effort to identify NSLI-Y as a U.S. Department of State program,
unless otherwise advised by ECA or the Public Diplomacy Section of a U.S.
Embassy/Consulate.
NSLI-Y Digital Presence: As directed by ECA, develop and maintain a dedicated
and dynamic NSLI-Y Program website that is mobile responsive and/or contribute
NSLI-Y content to ECA digital efforts. The NSLI-Y website should include
comprehensive information about the program, including information on the
overseas programs and virtual programming; application information and
frequently asked questions; and may include, as directed by ECA, program
highlights; impact stories and data; and alumni resources. If requested by ECA,
maintain an engaging presence on social media accounts for recruitment and
program promotion, or contribute NSLI-Y content for ECA social media, as
requested. Regularly consult with ECA on guidelines for content for social media.
b. Application, Selection, Placement, and Notification
Application: Establish, maintain, and update a comprehensive and secure online
application for overseas programs and virtual programs. Applications must also be
designed to elicit information for applicants that are relevant to the selection
process. Monitor the online system to limit and address technical problems. The
award recipient must accommodate applicants who cannot apply online. All
application materials and associated data should be available in a sortable,
searchable, database format that can be easily shared with ECA upon request.
Historically, 2,500-4,000 applications are received each year. Respond to and
manage all general inquiries and application questions. Record and track all
inquiries related to problems or issues with any part of the application process.

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Selection Process: Plan for and conduct a transparent merit-based selection
process with clearly defined criteria and a scoring matrix for assessing applicants
for overseas and virtual programming.
At minimum, successful applicants should demonstrate maturity and an ability to
succeed in an intensive, demanding language study program overseas or virtually.
Successful applicants should also demonstrate an intent to continue their language
and culture study beyond the scholarship period and a desire to apply their critical
language and cultural skills later in their academic and/or professional pursuits.
ECA will approve the overall selection plan and specific selection criteria. Suggested
revisions and additions may be made in consultation with ECA.
U.S. Department of State Approval: Present the final recommended participants
and alternates to ECA for approval, providing an overall analysis of the results
including but not limited to number of participants by language, home state,
participation in previous ECA programs and other categories as requested by ECA.
Program Placement: Assign finalists and alternates to particular programs based
on language level and other relevant criteria to ensure that each participant is
placed into an appropriate and challenging program, and when possible,
contributes to positive group dynamics. The proposal should address how the
participants’ language skills will be assessed for placement purposes and on what
basis program assignments are made. Notify all implementing organizations of
finalists and alternates from the national application pool assigned to them.
Applicant Notification: Prepare and send notifications to all finalists, alternates,
and non-selected applicants on ECA approved templates. Applicants for overseas
programs should be notified in time to secure necessary visas before programs
begin. Manage the acceptance process, advancing alternates to replace
declinations on a timely basis and with ECA approval. Prepare ECA approved
program descriptions for each overseas program based on a standard template.
Inform participants of their program placement (including implementing
organization, city, and school) at the time of scholarship notification, unless this is
not possible due to security or other concerns about the location or program.
Inform participants of specific housing accommodations (host family name, location
and, if applicable, dormitory or group housing location) no later than one week
prior to departure from the United States and preferably earlier.

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Additional Deliverables:
• Conduct a technical review of applications for eligibility and completeness.
• Develop and implement best practices and training for staff and volunteers who
work on the proposed selection process. These best practices and trainings
should aim to ensure consistency and standardization.
• Develop a mechanism to evaluate the application and selection process and share
analyses, results, and any suggested changes to recruitment and selection with
ECA.
c. Alumni Programming and Tracking
Develop a plan for post program and alumni activities. Consult with ECA to include
foreign policy priorities, to the extent possible, in alumni activities. Plans for
program alumni support should include the following:
Alumni Association: Manage an alumni association that includes alumni from all
NSLI-Y program years. Provide opportunities for alumni to develop their leadership
skills. Work with the alumni association leadership to set goals and priorities, plan
and implement activities, recruit additional alumni, and encourage alumni to share
their overseas experiences with their schools and their communities. Provide
financial and programming support for participation in alumni activities, including
travel as appropriate, for alumni of all NSLI-Y program years.
NSLI-Y Alumni Representatives: Conduct an annual competition among recent
NSLI-Y alumni to select alumni representatives. Provide training and support for
alumni representatives to assist in program promotion, outreach, networking, and
other proposed activities decided in consultation with ECA.
Language Study and Career Opportunities: Propose and/or develop creative and
effective ways to assist alumni in continuing their foreign language and cultural
studies in high school, in post-secondary educational settings, or in other settings.
Follow-on activities should also introduce alumni to internship and career
opportunities in which they can use their language and cultural skills.
International Exchange Alumni Engagement: Encourage participants and alumni
to register on the International Exchange Alumni website

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(https://alumni.state.gov/). Share opportunities that are available to International
Exchange Alumni with NSLI-Y alumni.
Alumni Program Linkages: Encourage linkages to other federally sponsored
language programs to share resources, pursue common goals, and inspire NSLI-Y
alumni to pursue critical language learning.
Tracking Alumni: Track NSLI-Y alumni from all program years to determine
whether and how their NSLI-Y language learning has influenced or affected their
post-secondary experience and career choices. If requested, conduct an alumni
survey.
Alumni Involvement in NSLI-Y: Encourage and facilitate the involvement of NSLI-Y
alumni in supporting the current and future program through recruitment,
publicity, outreach, virtual exchanges, mentoring, pre-program preparation, and
program planning.
d. Program Planning and Management
Staffing Plan: Provide an overall staffing plan including level of effort for each
position. Allocate one lead individual to manage the project. ECA will approve key
project staff, as well as any changes in key staff during the period of the award.
Coordination: Provide overall coordination of key program activities with ECA.
Conduct regular meetings in-person or virtually with the ECA Program Officer and
key personnel. Collaborate with ECA on minutes of these meetings.
Operational Guidelines: Review and refine, with ECA concurrence, comprehensive
operational guidelines, including procedures for emergency situations. Distribute
the guidelines to implementing organizations and ensure that they understand,
implement, and adhere to them. Operational Guidelines help ensure consistency
of policy and procedures across all organizations and sites.
Program Plans: Provide to ECA a detailed schedule and plan for each overseas
program. Describe in detail the major components of the program (as applicable),
including location and dates; host institution; staffing; orientations; hours of
language instruction per week; educational and cultural enrichment activities;
participant living arrangements; and any other relevant data requested by ECA.

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Annual Meeting: Plan and implement an in-person (preferred) and/or virtual
meeting for implementing organizations and relevant ECA staff to ensure a single
worldwide program identity is cultivated and to discuss policies, procedures, and
best practices. This multi-session meeting should be held in January or February of
the program year and be planned in close consultation with ECA. The meeting may
be held either in Washington, DC, or online, as approved in advance by ECA. Each
implementing organization should be represented by at least one participant at the
meeting. ECA must be notified in advance about all attendees.
Annual Planning Meeting: Organize an annual planning meeting, either in
Washington, DC or online for key recipient personnel and ECA staff. Provide ECA
with minutes and deliverables from these meetings.
Congressional Notifications: Assist ECA in notifying Congressional
Representatives and Senators of finalists selected from their district or state, if
requested by ECA.
Performance Monitoring and Evaluation: Present a plan to measure the success
of the NSLI-Y overseas programs and virtual programming, during the program
implementation, as well as at the end of the program, and success of alumni
meeting program goals over the long-term. ECA expects that the award recipient
will be able to provide relevant output and outcome data, including on overall
participant satisfaction with the program, language acquisition, cultural learning,
and further academic/professional interest in the target language and/or region
and/or other critical languages and regions. Data collection should also include
assessment of program-specific aspects, such as logistical arrangements and
program components. The recipient is also expected to assess the success of
implementing partners in meeting program goals, participant support, and
adherence to NSLI-Y operational guidelines, and other relevant criteria. These
requirements are in addition to section 5, the Program Performance Monitoring
and Evaluation (M&E) section in the NOFO.
Program Partner Capacity Building: Although not required, proposals and
budgets may include activities to strengthen partners’ capacity for language-
teaching and/or hosting American students.
Build Relationships: For purposes of program promotion, leveraging resources,
providing alumni opportunities, and strengthening the National Security Language
Initiative, the award recipient should cultivate relationships with organizations that

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implement other government-sponsored critical language exchange programs
including, but not limited to, the Critical Language Scholarship Program (CLS), the
Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program, the Boren Awards, and The
Language Flagship. Facilitate interactions and cooperation between NSLI-Y
participants and the participants and/or alumni of other U.S. Department of State
programs.
Documentation: Provide and maintain detailed documentation of all program
policies and procedures, including a separate section on emergency management
and protocols for review and approval by ECA. Emergency management should
clearly identify lines of responsibility and communication with ECA, sub-recipients,
program staff, participants, and appropriate U.S. embassies or consulates, as
applicable.
Databases: Ensure that lists of all finalists conform to ECA database requirements
and are submitted in the requested format on dates as agreed upon by ECA and
the award recipient for each summer, academic year, and Virtual NSLI-Y cohort.
Secure and protect any personally identifiable information. All statistical
information collected on ECA program applicants and participants should be
transferable to databases maintained by ECA.
Communication with ECA: Respond in a timely manner to inquiries about the
program from ECA.
General Communication: Respond in a timely manner to inquiries about the
program from members of the public, potential applicants/parents, high schools,
and relevant organizations.
Other Deliverables:
• Consult ECA on NSLI-Y overseas and virtual programing award terminations,
revocations, and recouped funds, and provide documentation of these
actions to ECA, at a date/time agreed upon with ECA.
• Audit internal functions, systems, and controls as necessary, and report any
irregularities if necessary or required per audit guidelines.
• Ensure that participants and staff comply with the Fly America Act and other
relevant regulations when using NSLI-Y funds to purchase international plane
tickets and other requested costs.

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4. Recipient Responsibilities
The Award recipient responsibilities include the following broad categories
(detailed in section 3. Program Specific Guidelines):
• Implementation of the NSLI-Y program, including overseas and virtual
programing for approximately 275 participants as described in this
solicitation.
• Administer the NSLI-Y program as outlined in this solicitation, which includes:
Recruitment, outreach, and program promotion.
o
Application, selection, placement, and notification of participants in NSLI-Y
o
overseas and virtual programs.
Alumni programming and tracking.
o
Program Planning and Management
o
Financial Oversight and Reporting
o
5. Goals and Objectives
NSLI-Y Program Goals:
1) To increase the number of American youth who learn critical languages in
support of U.S. national security and economic competitiveness.
2) To create a cadre of Americans in various professional fields who are able
to effectively engage with regions of the world that are strategically important
to the United States.
3) To cultivate leadership, communication, and inter-cultural competence
skills among American youth.
4) To spark a lifetime interest in critical foreign languages and cultures among
American youth.
Overseas NSLI-Y Programs Expected Program Outcomes:
1) Participants will demonstrate a substantive, measurable increase in
language proficiency (oral comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing), as
verified through a standardized language assessment tool for oral proficiency.
2) Participants will demonstrate a deeper understanding of the receiving
country’s society, institutions, and culture.
3) Participants will share American culture with their overseas peers, and
alumni will share their overseas experiences with others in their U.S. schools
and communities.

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4) Alumni will continue their language learning, apply their linguistic and cross-
cultural skills in their academic, career, and community activities, and/or
participate in other exchanges and educational activities to further language
learning.
Virtual NSLI-Y Expected Program Outcomes:
1) Participants will demonstrate language proficiency at the Novice-Low level on
the ACTFL Oral proficiency rating scale or equivalent for the target language, as
assessed by instructors.
2) Participants will demonstrate awareness of global competence and increased
understanding of cultures where the target language is spoken.
3) Alumni will continue their language learning, apply their linguistic and cross-
cultural skills in their academic, career, and volunteer activities, and/or apply to
participate in other exchanges and educational activities to further language
learning.
6. Program Performance Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E)
Distinct from grants or cooperative agreement monitoring and participant
monitoring, performance monitoring is designed to assess progress against a
program’s goals and objectives. A performance monitoring framework is vital to
tracking the direction, pace, and magnitude of change that result from ECA
programs.
ECA created the Monitoring Data for ECA (MODE) Framework to measure the
performance of ECA programs. The MODE Framework provides standard
indicators and corresponding survey questions to ensure consistent
measures across all ECA programs. More resources and guidance documents on
the MODE Framework are available online at: https://www.state.gov/eca-
monitoring-evaluation-learning-and-innovation-meli-unit/.
The proposal must include the MODE Framework objectives and indicators listed
below (note that, because not all MODE objectives and indicators are relevant for a
program, the numbering below will not be sequential). In addition to the ECA-
required objectives and indicators, applicants may also select additional MODE
Framework indicators (see the Indicator Book on the MODE Framework website), or
design custom objectives and indicators that are specific to the proposed program
and this proposal.

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• Demographic Questions as outlined in the Indicator Book on page v and
Performance Monitoring Plan (PMP) (See the MODE Resource Guide –
https://app.box.com/s/qjo8icwj46tc8h1i1qtg80zl7ibwgtua – found on our
website https://www.state.gov/eca-monitoring-evaluation-learning-and-
innovation-meli-unit/)
• Objective 1: Advance participant and beneficiary cross-cultural competence and
global perspective
Sub-Objective 1.1: Promote cultural exchanges and enhance understanding
between participants and their host communities
o
 E1.1.01: Percent of participants reporting that their program experience
offered opportunities to engage with other cultures
 E1.1.09: Percent of participants who traveled abroad for the first time
because of their program (core indicator)
 E1.1.11: Percent of American participants indicating a change in their
understanding of their host country's culture and values
 E1.1.16: Percent of virtual exchange (VE) participants who report VE as
their only likely way to interact with citizens from other countries in the
future
• Objective 2: Increase the impact that participants and alumni have on their
communities / countries
Sub-Objective 2.2: Foster participant’s belief that civic engagement benefits
communities/countries
o
 E2.2.01: Percent of participants who have more confidence in their ability
to have an impact in their home country (core indicator)
• Objective 3: Strengthen engagement among participants, alumni, beneficiaries,
and institutions
 E3.0.07: Percent of participants who identify as a Department of State
program participant (core indicator)
• Objective 4: Strengthen personal, professional, and technical abilities and
aptitudes of participants and beneficiaries
 E4.0.03: Percent of participants reporting an increase in soft skills as a
result of their program participation
 E4.0.09: Percent of participants reporting an increase in language skills as
a result of their program participation
Sub-Objective 4.1: Participants engage in language, academic, professional,
and cultural exchange programs
o
 E4.1.01: Total number of participants (core indicator)
 E4.1.02: Total number of program cohorts (core indicator)

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 E4.1.06: Number of participants in programs with formal, dedicated
language learning activities
 E4.1.15: Number of participants in virtual exchange (VE) programs
• Objective 8: Enhance the quality and effectiveness of ECA programs by
leveraging the Bureau’s resources, policy, and stakeholder relationships
 E8.0.03: Response rate for participant surveys (core indicator)
Performance Monitoring Plans (PMPs)
ECA recommends the use of a PMP to serve as the primary reference document for
performance monitoring for this award. If used, the PMP is an important part of
any proposal, as it outlines how the applicant plans to track progress towards the
proposed program’s goals and objectives through indicators and corresponding
data collection questions. A PMP document that includes all MODE Framework
indicators is a part of this solicitation’s attachments. Specific instructions on how to
modify the PMP to be responsive to this solicitation are included in that document;
there is also a support video available for more information on how to fill out the
PMP: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBHC1oLNZvI. While ECA recommends
the applicant use the PMP format provided, this is not a requirement. If a PMP is
not included in the proposal, applicants should provide similar information to that
found in the suggested PMP format, in a presentation of your choice. Successful
PMPs (or similar documentation) should include the following:
• Objectives. Programmatic objectives are statements of the condition(s) that
state what the program is designed to achieve. Objectives are therefore bound
by the resources and timeframe of the program and must be specific,
measurable, attainable, relevant and time-bound (SMART). In addition to those
outlined above, the applicant may propose other program objectives from the
MODE Framework or other applicant-designed program-specific objectives.
• Indicators. Performance indicators are measures used to gauge progress
toward programmatic objectives and sub-objectives. Indicators should be as
specific as possible (following the SMART principles) and include any proposed
disaggregations (meaning, breakdowns of the data by subgroups; the PMP lists
the demographic questions required to obtain the information necessary to
report the disaggregations). Each indicator should also include a target number
to be achieved. A target is a planned level of result to be achieved within an
explicit timeframe.
If you do not use the PMP format provided, note that any performance
o
monitoring reference document the applicant submits should include the

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information in the column headers (Indicator Name, Definition, Target,
Survey Question, etc.) in the PMP attachment at a minimum.
In addition to those indicators outlined in above, the applicant may propose
o
additional custom, program-specific indicators in the PMP (ECA recommends
the proposed PMPs include a minimum of one indicator for each custom
programmatic objective).
During the period of performance of the award, the ECA program office may
o
further revise, add, or remove indicators. Therefore, the applicant’s PMP and
data collection instruments should be flexible enough to incorporate those
once established.
Award recipients are responsible for collecting indicator data only on participant
outcomes during the period of performance of the award itself (see the PMP for
guidelines as to when these data collection efforts should occur). ECA will measure
outcomes of ECA participants at one, three, five, and 10 years after the exchange
has ended to capture the long-term outcomes of ECA programming unless
otherwise specified in the NOFO and/or POGI. In this instance, the recipient will be
responsible for coordinating with ECA on any alumni surveys to de-duplicate
questions and minimize potential survey fatigue.
Regardless of the survey platform used, all MODE Framework survey questions
outlined above are required (i.e., should be forced response); please see the
Consent Language in the MODE Framework Indicator Book for more information
on how to convey this to participants/survey respondents.
Program Performance M&E Narrative
Proposals should include information within the program narrative section(s) that
outlines how the applicant intends to measure the indicators listed above. This will
be separate from the PMP and should include but not be limited to:
• An overview of resources available to the applicant that outline the team
structure and responsibilities surrounding performance monitoring.
• The mechanism(s) through which surveys and other data collection tools (if
applicable) will be administered, including which platform will be used, and
when and how surveys will be advertised to participants – detailing strategies to
ensure adequate survey response rates
(https://app.box.com/s/pn6tavyg7sh064i502fzap49ox63y38a), and to reduce
selection and non-response bias.
• A brief explanation of data analysis and reporting procedures.

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• An overview of a proposed learning plan and feedback loops to ensure that the
Grant Officer (GO)/Grant Officer Representative (GOR) are informed on
performance monitoring issues at regular intervals.
Nonmandatory Use of the Qualtrics MODE Survey Builder Data
Collection System
ECA has created a guided tool (the MODE Survey Builder) within the Qualtrics
survey platform for ECA implementing partners to generate surveys to facilitate the
seamless collection and reporting of MODE Framework data. The MODE Survey
Builder offers implementing partners a guided workflow that will generate a ready-
to-send MODE survey, allows the addition of custom survey questions, and offers a
standard report template for a quick overview of survey results that can be
submitted in MyGrants (see section below) to fulfill RPM Reporting Requirements.
Use of the Qualtrics survey platform can be utilized at no cost to implementing
partners. Additional information about the MODE Survey Builder can be found
here: https://app.box.com/s/jjr98hmx6deorxj3lwgaxjrwdfec2r91 and here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jus4fRqOTcM. You can propose use of an
alternate survey tool or use the MODE Survey Builder, but if you are utilizing the
MODE Survey Builder, you must indicate such in your proposal.
MyGrants RPM Reporting Requirements
MyGrants is a database solution that serves as the official system of record for all
U.S. Department of State and ECA awards. The Results Performance Monitoring
(RPM) module within MyGrants is an extension module that enables users to report
performance monitoring data in the same system where they currently manage
federal assistance actions. As part of ECA’s efforts to streamline data collection and
management, the recipient(s) of this award will be required to input performance
reporting data outlined in this solicitation into the MyGrants RPM. The data stored
in the MyGrants RPM will provide ECA with a bureau-wide, uniform M&E reporting
tool that is already linked with other elements of the awards familiar to existing
awardees.
7. Cost Share
ECA encourages applicants to provide maximum levels of cost sharing and funding
in support of its programs. When cost sharing is offered, it is understood and
agreed that the applicant must provide the amount of cost sharing as stipulated in
its proposal and later included in an approved agreement. Cost sharing may be in
the form of allowable direct or indirect costs. For accountability, you must maintain

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written records to support all costs which are claimed as your contribution, as well
as costs to be paid by the Federal government. Such records are subject to audit.
The basis for determining the value of cash and in-kind contributions must be in
accordance with the Office of Management and Budget’s Guidance 2 CFR Parts 200
and 600, entitled the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and
Audit Requirements for Federal Awards. In the event you do not provide the
minimum amount of cost sharing as stipulated in the approved budget, ECA's
contribution may be reduced in like proportion.
8. Freedom and Democracy Guidelines
Public Law 104-319 provides that "in carrying out programs of educational and
cultural exchange in countries whose people do not fully enjoy freedom and
democracy," the Bureau "shall take appropriate steps to provide opportunities for
participation in such programs to human rights and democracy leaders of such
countries." Public Law 106 - 113 requires that the governments of the countries
described above do not have inappropriate influence in the selection process.
Proposals should reflect advancement of these goals in their program contents, to
the full extent deemed feasible.
9. Virtual Exchange Component
When changing political, health, environmental, or other similar circumstances
require a suspension or halt of in-person activities and where ECA determines that
a virtual alternative is appropriate and viable, award recipients should demonstrate
the ability and capacity to transition from in-person to virtual exchanges.
Proposals should demonstrate the organization’s capacity to provide innovative
options for virtual activities to substitute for in-person engagement for program
participants. Organizations should consider how they will implement virtual
exchange activities, given the potential limits to internet access from participants in
some locations and while continuing to advance foreign policy objectives and
achieve lasting benefits for U.S. citizens and international participants.
In addition to planning for virtual exchange activities if in-person programming is
prohibited, ECA welcomes innovative ideas on how organizations can leverage
virtual programming technologies during or in addition to in-person programming.
ECA encourages organizations submitting proposals in response to this solicitation
to suggest one or more virtual exchange components to complement the in-person
exchange. The virtual exchange component(s) could come before, during and/or
after the physical exchange. The objective for the virtual exchange component(s) is
to augment the impact of the in-person exchange described in this solicitation. ECA

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encourages organizations to propose virtual exchange ideas that take advantage of
ECA’s existing web and social networking platforms. Virtual exchange components
would be coordinated with and approved by the ECA program office and U.S.
missions abroad on a project-by-project basis.
10. Communications Guidance for ECA Recipients
All ECA Recipients must adhere to the requirements in ECA’s Communications
Guidance on the creation of program branding and attribution, websites, social
media, and press.
11. Celebration of America’s Semiquincentennial.
ECA is excited to play a key role in making the Semiquincentennial – commonly
known as “Freedom 250” – a truly global celebration. As the period of performance
for this award is scheduled to cover part or all of calendar year (CY) 2026, the
applicant may wish to consider ways the program can
celebrate Freedom 250. Any Freedom 250 focused activities or plans will be
subject to ECA approval and direction, and changes may be requested by ECA. Use
of any ECA-provided Freedom 250 brand elements will be subject to advance ECA
approval and require adherence to Department of State and ECA guidelines for
such branding.
12. Substantial Involvement
In a cooperative agreement, the Department is substantially involved in program
activities above and beyond routine monitoring, as follows:
• Provide guidance and concurrence on participant outreach, recruitment,
• and selection strategy.
• Review and concur on general program location, host family/housing location,
and host language institution or school for all overseas programs.
• Review and approve modifications to program locations and languages,
participant numbers, implementing organizations, or program structure.
• Review implementing organizations' program descriptions and program
plans/schedules for language instruction, cultural enrichment activities,
community service projects, peer tutoring, and excursions for overseas
programs, and for online instruction and activities for Virtual NSLI-Y programs.
• Support inclusion of overseas NSLI-Y participants in appropriate
embassy/consulate/AIT activities.
• Facilitate cooperation with other federally supported programs aimed at critical
language learning and studying abroad as needed.

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• Consult on participant support issues and concur on all participant early returns
from overseas programs and dismissals from Virtual NSLI-Y programs.
• Consult on alumni activities and follow-up events, including possible activities
with the private sector.
D. Application Contents and Format
Please read the complete announcement before sending inquiries or submitting
proposals.
Applicants must follow all instructions in the Solicitation Package, including the
Proposal Submission Instruction (PSI) document, which contains guidelines for
proposal preparation.
1. Budget Format
Applicants must submit a budget (SF-424A), detailed line-item budget, and a budget
narrative.
Applicants may provide separate sub-budgets for each program component, phase,
location, or activity to provide clarification. A detailed budget and budget narrative
for applicant and proposed sub-award implementing organizations must be
included.
2. Content of Application
Please see the Proposal Submission Instructions (PSI) for information about the
application and formatting guidelines.
E. Submission Requirements and Deadlines
1. Address to Request Application Package.
The entire Solicitation Package may be downloaded from the Grants.gov website at
https://www.grants.gov or from the ECA website at https://www.state.gov/eca-
grant-opportunities/.
2. Department of State Contacts
For questions about this announcement, contact: Kaveri Advani, U.S. Department
of State, Citizen Exchanges, ECA/PE/C/PY, advanike@state.gov.

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All correspondence with ECA concerning this solicitation should reference the title
and funding opportunity number listed at the top of this solicitation. Please read
the complete announcement before sending inquiries or submitting proposals.
Once the deadline has passed, ECA staff may not discuss this competition with
applicants until the proposal review process has been completed.
The terms and conditions published in this solicitation are binding and may not be
modified by any ECA representative. Explanatory information provided by ECA that
contradicts published language will not be binding.
3. Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and System for Award Management
(SAM.gov)
Required Registrations
All organizations, whether based in the United States or in another country, must
have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and an active registration in SAM.gov.
A UEI is one of the data elements mandated by Public Law 109-282, the Federal
Funding Accountability and Transparency Act (FFATA), for all Federal awards. An
applicant must maintain an active registration while it has a proposal under review
by the Department and must continue to keep the registration active for the entire
duration of the period of performance of any Federal award that results from this
NOFO.
The 2 CFR 200 requires subrecipients to obtain a UEI. Please note the UEI for
subrecipients is not required at the time of application but will be required before
an award is processed and/or directed to a subrecipient.
Note: The process of obtaining or renewing a SAM.gov registration may take
anywhere from 4-8 weeks. Please begin your registration as early as possible.
Organizations based in the United States or that pay employees within the United
States will need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue
Service (IRS) and a UEI prior to registering in SAM.gov.
All federal award recipients must maintain a current registration in the SAM
database. Recipients must maintain accurate and up-to-date information in
www.SAM.gov until all program and financial activity and reporting is completed on

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any issued award. Recipients must review and update the information at least
annually after the initial registration and more frequently if required information
changes or another award is granted. There is no cost associated with registering
or updating SAM.gov accounts.
For more detailed instructions for registering with SAM, refer to:
https://sam.gov/content/entity-registration
Exemptions
An exemption from the UEI and sam.gov registration requirements may be
permitted on a case-by-case basis. See 2 CFR 25.110 for a full list of exemptions.
Organizations requesting exemption from UEI or SAM.gov requirements must email
the point of contact listed in the NOFO at least two weeks prior to the deadline in
the NOFO providing a justification of their request. Approval for a SAM.gov
exemption must come from the warranted Grants Officer before the application
can be deemed eligible for review.
4. Required Registration with MyGrants
All ECA award recipient organizations and recipient contacts and signatories must
be registered with the U.S. Department of State’s MyGrants system by accessing
https://mygrants.servicenowservices.com and clicking the “create an account” link.
MyGrants is the U.S. Department of State’s grants management system and is
supported by the Department’s Integrated Logistics Management System (ILMS).
Recipient organizations and recipient contacts and signatories that have previously
used MyGrants as a U.S. Department of State award recipient do not need to
register again. If the organization is not able to access the system, please contact
the ILMS Help Desk for help in gaining access.
Support for Recipient Organizations and recipient contacts and signatories is
available 24 hours, 7 days a week (except federal holidays), and can be reached at
1-888-313-ILMS (4567) or through the ILMS Self Service Portal at
https://afsitsm.servicenowservices.com/ilms/.
5. Submission Instructions
Method of Submission

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Applications may only be submitted electronically through Grants.gov
(https://www.grants.gov). Complete solicitation packages are available at
Grants.gov in the “Search Grants” portion of the system.
Grants.gov Registration, Application Submission, and Receipt Procedures
Eligible organizations should follow the instructions available in the ‘Get Started’
portion of the site (https://www.grants.gov/applicants/grant-applications/how-to-
apply-for-grants.
How to Register to Apply through Grants.gov
Applicants should read instructions carefully and prepare the information
requested before beginning the registration process. Reviewing and assembling
the required information before beginning the registration process will alleviate
last-minute searches for required information.
The registration process can take up to four weeks to complete. Therefore,
registration should be done in sufficient time to ensure it does not impact your
ability to meet required application submission deadlines. Applicants should check
with appropriate staff within their organizations immediately after reviewing this
NOFO to confirm or determine their registration status with Grants.gov.
Organization applicants can find complete instructions here:
https://www.grants.gov/applicants/applicant-registration
How to Submit an Application to ECA via Grants.gov
For access to complete instruction on how to apply for Notice of Funding
Opportunities on Grants.gov, refer to: https://www.grants.gov/applicants/grant-
applications/how-to-apply-for-grants
Grants.gov Support and Submission Issues
Direct all questions regarding Grants.gov registration and submission issues to:
Grants.gov Customer Support
Contact Center Phone: 800 -518-4726
Business Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week; closed on federal holidays.
Email: support@grants.gov
6. Submission Dates and Times

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Application Deadline Date
Friday, May 1, 2026. 11:59pm EST.
Applicants have until 11:59 p.m., Washington, DC time of the closing date to ensure
that their entire application has been uploaded to the Grants.gov site. There are no
exceptions to the above deadline. Applications uploaded to the site after the
application deadline date and time will be automatically rejected by the Grants.gov
system and will be found technically ineligible.
Therefore, we strongly recommend that you begin the submission process
through Grants.gov well in advance of the application deadline.
Proof of timely submission is automatically recorded by Grants.gov. An electronic
date/time stamp is generated within the system when the application is
successfully received by Grants.gov. The applicant Grants.gov Authorized
Organization Representative (AOR) will receive an acknowledgement of receipt and
a tracking number (GRANTXXXXXXXX) from Grants.gov with the successful
transmission of their application. Applicant AORs will also receive the official
date/time stamp and Grants.gov Tracking number in an email serving as proof of
their timely submission.
When ECA successfully retrieves the application from Grants.gov, Grants.gov will
provide an electronic acknowledgement of receipt of the application to the email
address of the applicant with the AOR role. Again, proof of timely submission shall
be the official date and time that Grants.gov receives your application. Please also
be mindful of any Grants.gov generated error messages that may appear during
the application process as they may result in some documents not transmitting
correctly.
Applicants using slow internet should be aware that transmission can take some
time before Grants.gov receives your application. Grants.gov will provide either an
error or a successfully received transmission in the form of an email sent to the
applicant with the AOR role. The Grants.gov Support Center reports that some
applicants end the transmission because they think that nothing is occurring during
the transmission process. Please be patient and give the system time to process
the application.

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The Grants.gov website includes extensive information on all phases/aspects of the
Grants.gov process, including an extensive section on frequently asked questions,
located under the “Applicant FAQs” section of the website. ECA strongly
recommends that all potential applicants review thoroughly the Grants.gov website,
well in advance of submitting a proposal through the Grants.gov system. ECA will
not notify you upon receipt of electronic applications.
PLEASE NOTE: ECA bears no responsibility for applicant timeliness of submission
or data errors resulting from transmission or conversion processes for proposals
submitted via Grants.gov. Prior to submitting applications through Grants.gov,
please ensure you meet all Grants.gov system and software requirements,
including Adobe software compatibility. You can verify if your version of the Adobe
software is compatible with Grants.gov, by visiting
https://grants.gov/applicants/adobe-software-compatibility
It is the responsibility of all applicants submitting proposals via the
Grants.gov web portal (https://www.grants.gov) to ensure that proposals have
been received by Grants.gov in their entirety, and ECA bears no responsibility
for data errors resulting from transmission or conversion processes.
7. Funding Restrictions for this Announcement
a. Funding Restrictions for the United Nations Relief and Works
Agency (UNRWA)
None of the funds awarded resulting from this Notice of Funding Opportunity
may be made available for subawards, direct financial support, or otherwise
used to provide any payment or transfer to United Nations Relief and Works
Agency (UNRWA).
b. Certification Regarding Compliance with applicable Federal Anti-
Discrimination Laws
If the place of performance or delivery of any award made under this NOFO will
be within the United States, applicants are advised that they will be required to
certify the following at the time of award:

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I. Its compliance in all respects with all applicable Federal anti-
discrimination laws is material to the government’s payment decisions for
purposes of section 3729(b)(4) of title 31, United States Code and;
II. It does not operate any programs promoting Diversity, Equity, and
Inclusion that violate any applicable Federal anti-discrimination laws. A
program promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion means a program
whose purpose is to promote preferences based on race, color religion,
sex, or national origins, such as in training or hiring.
c. Certification Regarding Compliance with 20 U.S.C. 1011f and Any
Other Applicable Foreign Funding Disclosure Requirements for
Institutes of Higher Education (IHE)
Applicants are advised that IHEs must certify the following at the time of
award, and that this certification requirement must be included in any
subaward agreements to IHEs:
• Its compliance in all respects with section 1011f of title 20, United States
Code, and any other applicable foreign funding disclosure requirements is
material for purposes of section 3729 of title 31, United States Code, and
for receipt of appropriate Federal grant funds.
d. Certification of Trafficking in Persons Compliance and Compliance
Plan
Applicants are advised that they will be required to certify the following at
the time of award for awards where the estimated value of services to be
performed outside the United States exceeds $500,000:
• To the best of the recipient’s knowledge, neither the recipient, nor any
subrecipient, contractor, or subcontractor of the recipient or any agent of
the recipient or of such a subrecipient, contractor, or subcontractor, is
engaged in any of the activities described in 2 CFR 175.105(a);
The recipient has implemented a Trafficking in Persons compliance plan
to prevent activities described in 2 CFR 175(a) and is compliant with it; and
compliance plan must be consistent with the requirements of 2 CFR
175(b)(4) and (5).

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• That the recipient has procedures to prevent activities described in 2 CFR
175.105(a) and to monitor, detect, and terminate any subrecipient,
contractor, subcontractor, or employee of the recipient engaging in them.
Recipients do not need to submit a copy of the plan. However, they must
provide it to the Grants Officer upon request, and as appropriate, must post
the useful and relevant contents of the plan or related materials on their
website and at the workplace. Recipients must re-certify on an annual basis
for the entire award period of performance.
e. Prohibition on Unmanned Aircraft Systems Manufactured or
Assembled by American Security Drone Act-Covered Foreign
Entities
(a) Definitions.
American Security Drone Act-covered foreign entity means an entity included on
a list developed and maintained by the Federal Acquisition Security Council
(FASC) and published in the System for Award Management (SAM) at
https://www.sam.gov
FASC-prohibited unmanned aircraft system means an unmanned aircraft
system manufactured or assembled by an American Security Drone Act-
covered foreign entity.
Unmanned aircraft means an aircraft that is operated without the possibility
of direct human intervention from within or on the aircraft.
Unmanned aircraft system means an unmanned aircraft and associated
elements (including communication links and the components that control
the unmanned aircraft) that are required for the operator to operate safely
and efficiently in the national airspace system.
(b) Prohibition.
Recipients of funding under this Notice of Funding Opportunity (including
subawards and subcontracts issued by the recipient) will be prohibited from:

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(1) delivering any FASC-prohibited unmanned aircraft system, which
includes unmanned aircraft (i.e., drones) and associated elements;
(2) operating a FASC-prohibited unmanned aircraft system in the
performance of the award; and
(3) using Federal funds for the purchase or operation of a FASC-
prohibited unmanned aircraft system.
c) Exemptions, exceptions, and waivers.
The prohibitions described above will not apply if the agency determines
that an exemption, exception, or waiver applies and the award indicates that
such a determination has been made. [See sections 1823 through 1825 and
1832 of Public Law 118-31 ( 41 U.S.C. 3901 note prec.) for statutory
requirements pertaining to exemptions, exceptions, and waivers.].
8. Other Submission Requirements
a. Applications must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov.
b. All proposals must contain a SF-424, executive summary, proposal
narrative, budget (SF 424A), detailed line-item budget, and budget
narrative.
c. Key Personnel
ECA recommends that the applicant identify intended key personnel
positions via an asterisk (*) or other marking in the proposal budget,
budget narrative, or a separate appendix. If not provided in the
application, recipients must submit the names, titles, roles and
experience/qualifications of key personnel involved in the program to the
Grants Officer and GOR within 30 days of an award being issued.
Applicants should also identify what proportion of their time will be used
in support of the program. Additional information regarding key
personnel requirements can be found in the State Department’s Standard
Terms and Conditions.
d. Intergovernmental Review of Applications
Executive Order 12372 does not apply to this program.

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F. Application Review Information
1. Review Process
ECA will check that all proposals meet the technical requirements in this solicitation.
Proposals that do not meet the guidelines, including those under the eligibility
section above or in the PSI, will be ineligible for further review.
All eligible proposals will be reviewed by the program office before being reviewed
by an ECA grant panel. Applications may also be reviewed by Public Diplomacy
sections overseas, State Department regional bureaus, or other State Department
offices, as appropriate. All reviewers, including the ECA grant panels, will review
any eligible proposals based on the criteria below.
Proposals recommended by an ECA grant panel will be reviewed for compliance
with Federal and Bureau regulations and guidelines, and assessed for risk. Final
funding decisions are made by the ECA’s Assistant Secretary. Only an ECA Grant
Officer has the final authority to issue assistance awards.
2. Review Criteria
An ECA grants panel will competitively evaluate all technically eligible applications
according to the criteria stated below. These criteria are not rank ordered, and all
carry equal weight in the proposal review.
a. Program planning: Proposals should have a detailed agenda and work plan
that demonstrates your institution's ability to carry out the program. The
plan should follow the program guidelines described in this solicitation and
should be likely to provide maximum impact in achieving the proposed
results.
b. Institutional Capacity and Institution’s Record/Ability: Proposals should
include the necessary personnel and institutional resources to achieve the
program results. Proposals should demonstrate an institutional record of
successful exchange programs and responsible fiscal management. ECA will
consider the past performance of prior ECA recipients, including the timely
submission of reports, and the demonstrated potential of new applicants.
c. Follow-on Activities: Proposals should provide a plan for continued follow-
on activity after the ECA supported program ends, ensuring that programs
are not isolated events.

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d. Performance Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E): Proposals should have a
fully developed M&E plan that includes goals, objectives, and indicators. The
plan should be feasible and aligned with the M&E section of this solicitation.
Proposals should include a realistic learning plan that outlines how your
organization plans to review, understand, and incorporate M&E data into
programmatic decisions and practices. All submitted M&E plans will be
reviewed to ensure the applicant has provided at least the required
information outlined in the M&E section of this solicitation and
demonstrated the applicant’s capacity to carry out the M&E plan.
e. Cost-effectiveness and cost share: Proposals should keep the overhead
components of the proposal, including salaries and honoraria, as low as
possible. All costs should be necessary and appropriate. Proposals should
maximize cost share through other private sector support and institutional
direct funding contributions.
3. Indirect Costs
If two or more applications receive equivalent scores based on the evaluation
criteria outlined in this NOFO, preference will be given to the applicant with the
lower indirect cost rate, as consistent with Executive Order 14332, Section 4(b)(iii).
This preference will only be applied as a tie-breaking mechanism and does not
supersede the primary evaluation criteria.
4. Risk Review
Under the merit review as required by 2 CFR 200.206, prior to making a Federal
Award, the Department will review and consider the following risk factors:
a. Financial stability
b. Management systems and standards
c. History of performance
d. Audit reports and findings
e. Ability to effectively implement requirements
5. Responsibility/Qualification Information in SAM.gov
The Federal awarding agency, prior to making a Federal award with a total amount
of Federal share greater than the simplified acquisition threshold, is required to
review and consider any information about the applicant that is in the U.S.
government designated integrity and performance system accessible through
SAM.gov (see 41 U.S.C. 2313) (see 41 U.S.C. 2313);

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An applicant can review and comment on any information in the
responsibility/qualification records available in SAM.gov.
Before making decisions in the risk review required by 2 CFR 200.206, the
Department will consider any comments by the applicant, along with information
available in the responsibility/qualification records in SAM.gov.
G. Award Notices
Final awards cannot be made until funds have been appropriated by Congress,
allocated and committed through internal ECA procedures. Successful applicants
will receive a Federal Assistance Award (FAA) from an authorized Grants Officer in
ECA’s Grants Division. The FAA and the original proposal with subsequent
modifications (if applicable) shall be the only binding authorizing document
between the recipient and the U.S. Government. The FAA will be signed by a Grants
Officer and transmitted to the recipient’s responsible officer (as identified in the
application) for review and countersignature. The recipient may only start incurring
project expenses beginning on the start date shown on the fully signed award
document.
Issuance of this NOFO does not constitute an award commitment on the part of the
U.S. government, nor does it commit the U.S. government to pay for costs incurred
in the preparation and submission of proposals. Further, the U.S. government
reserves the right to reject any or all proposals received. If a proposal is selected
for funding, the Department of State has no obligation to provide any additional
future funding.
Unsuccessful applicants:
Unsuccessful applicants will receive notification of the results of the application
review from the ECA program office coordinating this competition following the
completion of the review process.
Payment Method:
Payments under this award will be made through the U.S. Department of Health
and Human Services (HHS) Payment Management System (PMS).
H. Post-Award Requirements and Administration

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1. Administrative and National Policy Requirements
Before submitting an application, applicants should review all the terms and
conditions and required certifications which will apply to this award, to ensure that
they will be able to comply.
The Department of State will review and consider proposals for funding pursuant to
this NOFO in accordance with OMB guidance located at 2 CFR part 200, all
applicable Federal laws, and relevant Executive guidance, including the following:
• Guidance for Grants and Agreements in Title 2 of the Code of Federal
Regulations (2 CFR), as updated in the Federal Register’s 89 FR 30046 on April
22, 2024, particularly on:
Selecting recipients most likely to be successful in delivering results based
o
on the program objectives through an impartial process of evaluating
Federal award applications (2 CFR part 200.205),
Promoting the freedom of speech and religious liberty in alignment with
o
Promoting Free Speech and Religious Liberty (E.O. 13798) and Improving Free
Inquiry, Transparency, and Accountability at Colleges and Universities (E.O.
13864) (§§ 200.300, 200.303, 200.339, and 200.341),
Providing a preference, to the extent permitted by law, to maximize use of
o
goods, products, and materials produced in the United States (2 CFR part
200.322), and
Terminating agreements pursuant to the U.S. Department of State
o
Standard Terms and Conditions, including, to the greatest extent
authorized by law, if an award no longer effectuates the program goals or
agency priorities (2 CFR part 200.340).
• 2 CFR 25 - UNIVERSAL IDENTIFIER AND SYSTEM FOR AWARD MANAGEMENT
• 2 CFR 170 - REPORTING SUBAWARD AND EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
INFORMATION
• 2 CFR 175 - AWARD TERM FOR TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS
• 2 CFR 182 - GOVERNMENTWIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR DRUG-FREE
WORKPLACE (FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE)
• 2 CFR 183 - NEVER CONTRACT WITH THE ENEMY
• 2 CFR 600 – DEPARTMENT OF STATE REQUIREMENTS
• U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE STANDARD TERMS AND CONDITIONS

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• Recipients must comply with all applicable Executive Orders A searchable list
can be found in the Federal Register: https://www.federalregister.gov/
2. Reporting
Recipients will be required to submit financial reports and program reports. The
FAA will specify how often these reports must be submitted. All reports must be
submitted in a timely manner. For planning purposes, applicants can expect to
provide ECA with an electronic copy of the following required reports:
g. Performance Progress Reports (PPRs) shall be required at a minimum
annually and no more frequently than quarterly. Annual, quarterly, or semi-
annual reports shall be due 30 days after the reporting period. All reports
and supporting documentation must be uploaded by the recipient as a Post
Award Activity under the corresponding record for this award in MyGrants.
h. The Federal Financial Reports (FFR SF-425/SF-425a) must be submitted
through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Payment
Management System (PMS). The electronic version of the FFR can be
accessed at: https://www.grants.gov/forms/forms-repository/post-award-
reporting-forms. Once a financial report has been approved by the
Department, the recipient must upload the approved report to MyGrants, in
the same manner specified for the programmatic reports. Failure to comply
with these reporting requirements may jeopardize the recipient's eligibility
for future awards.
i. Required MODE data (see Program Performance Monitoring and Evaluation
section) shall be required at a minimum annually and no more frequently
than quarterly. MODE data reporting shall be due 30 days after the reporting
period. The frequency of these reports will be determined by ECA/P/MELI
and the Program Officer. Either a standard report template (if using the
MODE Survey Builder) or aggregate data and the raw data file (if Recipient
uses their own survey platform) must be uploaded by the Recipient as an
RPM Performance Report under the corresponding record for this award in
MyGrants.
j. A final program and financial report no more than 120 days after the
period of performance of the award ends or termination of the award.
k. Program Data Requirements: Award recipients will be required to
maintain specific data on program participants and activities in an
electronically accessible database format that can be shared with ECA as
required. At a minimum, the data must include the following:

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l. Name, address, contact information and biographic sketch of all persons
who travel internationally on funds provided by the agreement or who
benefit from the award funding but do not travel.
m. Itineraries of international and domestic travel, providing dates of travel and
cities in which any exchange experiences take place. Final schedules for in-
country and U.S. activities must be received by the ECA Program Officer at
least three workdays prior to the official opening of the activity.
3. Branding and Marking
The Department of State, its programs, and U.S. Government funding and
assistance should be easily identifiable to global audiences.
Recipients of federal assistance awards must follow the branding guidance
published at Guidance for Contracts and Grants - U.S. Department of State Brand
System. Branding policy exceptions are outlined in the U.S. Department of State
Foreign Affairs Manual 10 FAM 416, Policy Exceptions.
For more information, visit: https://brand.america.gov/
I. Other Information
For Informational Purposes Only - Adherence to All Regulations
Governing The J Visa
ECA places critically important emphasis on the security and proper administration
of the Exchange Visitor (J visa) Programs and adherence by award recipients and
sponsors to all regulations governing the J visa. A copy of the complete regulations
governing the administration of Exchange Visitor (J) programs is available at
http://j1visa.state.gov or from:
Office of Private Sector Exchange Designation
U.S. Department of State
SA-5, Floor C2, Room C2L13
2200 C Street, NW
Washington, DC 20522