EducationUSA Opportunity Funds Program

Agency: U.S. Mission to Zimbabwe
Assistance Listing: 19.022 — Educational and Cultural Exchange Programs Appropriation Overseas Grants
Opportunity Number: AF-HAR-FY26-02

The EducationUSA Opportunity Funds Program (OFP) supports high-achieving Zimbabwean students seeking undergraduate or graduate study at U.S. institutions or branch campuses of U.S. colleges and universities. Administered by the U.S. Embassy in Harare through its Public Diplomacy Section, the programme helps students overcome the up-front costs of applying to U.S. higher education institutions.

Overview

The grantee organization will manage the logistics of two phases of advising and support for the 2026–2027 cycle. Participants are selected based on criteria developed by the Public Diplomacy Section and EducationUSA advisers in Zimbabwe, with the OFP selection committee led by those advisers. Both phases may be implemented virtually, enabling flexible support for students across Zimbabwe.

Funding and Benefits

The total program funding is US $54,000, with a minimum award of $50,000 and a maximum award of $54,000. One award is expected. Administrative costs of up to 10 percent of the total award are permitted. Cost sharing or matching is not required. The funding instrument type is a grant.

Program Phases

Phase One covers all required standardized test fees, application fees, certifications, and other approved costs for selected students to enroll in a U.S. higher education program. The grantee also provides programmatic and logistical support to EducationUSA advisers delivering intensive advising on the U.S. application process, financial aid, online degree programs, and other U.S. accredited alternative education options. Stipends are disbursed to regional advisers who support these activities.

Phase Two involves managing travel and any pre-departure costs for successful students who gain admission and funding to U.S. programs or institutions for the 2027–2028 U.S. academic year. The grantee also provides approved logistical support to students selected for EducationUSA online study programs.

Eligibility

The following Zimbabwean organizations are eligible to apply:

• Not-for-profit organizations, including think tanks and civil society or non-governmental organizations
• Public and private educational institutions

Application Process

Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov. Required documents include the United States Embassy Zimbabwe PD Grant Application Form 2023, the USPD Suggested Budget Template, SF424, SF424A Budget, and the full NOFO announcement.

Deadline and Timeline

Closing Date: August 2, 2026
Posted Date: May 15, 2026
Archive Date: August 3, 2026

Contact Information

Grantor: Mission Harare, Public Diplomacy Section Grants Management Team
Phone: 02428677011000
Email: PublicDiplomacyGrants-ZIM@state.gov