Understanding the SHE-CAN Scholar Program: A Path to U.S. College Education

The SHE-CAN Scholar Program offers a unique opportunity for talented young women from Cambodia, Liberia, and Guatemala to pursue higher education in the United States. This program is designed for individuals with leadership potential and a strong desire to create positive change in their home countries. By providing access to top U.S. colleges, mentorship, and leadership training, SHE-CAN equips scholars with the tools they need to succeed both academically and in their future careers. The program aims to support low-income students who might otherwise lack the resources to study abroad.

What is the SHE-CAN Scholar Program?

SHE-CAN, which stands for “She Can,” is an organization dedicated to empowering young women leaders. The scholar program specifically targets women aged 17-20 from Cambodia, Liberia, and Guatemala who demonstrate leadership qualities and a passion for improving their communities. The core mission is to help these women secure full-ride scholarships to U.S. colleges. This educational journey is intended to prepare them to return to their home countries and take on significant leadership roles.

The program’s approach is holistic, focusing not just on academic achievement but also on personal development and leadership training. Scholars receive support throughout the application process for U.S. universities and are guided by mentors who offer advice and encouragement. The goal is to foster a network of empowered women who can drive progress and make a lasting impact.

Funding and Financial Support

The SHE-CAN Scholar Program is structured to provide substantial financial backing, though it involves contributions from multiple sources. The primary funding comes from college-funded scholarships, where each scholar is supported in obtaining a full scholarship from a U.S. college. This scholarship typically covers tuition, room, and board, significantly reducing the financial burden on the student.

SHE-CAN itself provides additional support for costs not covered by the college scholarship. This includes funding for test preparation classes and fees associated with obtaining a passport and visa. The organization also covers the cost of flights to and from the U.S., as well as textbooks and health insurance.

However, scholars and their families are expected to contribute in certain areas. Scholars are responsible for travel to test preparation classes within their home countries. Upon arriving in the U.S., they are expected to work on campus to cover personal expenses like toiletries. While SHE-CAN covers health insurance, it does not fund medical expenses beyond what the insurance plan provides, such as dental or vision care.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the SHE-CAN Scholar Program, applicants must meet a specific set of criteria. The program is open to women between the ages of 17 and 20 who are passionate about making a difference in their country. Applicants must have graduated from high school or be on track to graduate by June 2027. A key requirement is coming from a low-income household, as the program aims to support those with limited financial resources.

Strong English language skills are essential, as U.S. universities require high scores on standardized English proficiency tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo. Applicants with less developed English skills are advised to spend a year improving their language abilities before applying. Academic excellence is also a critical factor; candidates should have a strong academic record, with high grades and good scores on national exams.

Furthermore, applicants must be leaders within their schools or communities and express a clear interest in pursuing an undergraduate degree at a U.S. institution. The program does not support students seeking graduate degrees. Candidates should also have less than one year of post-secondary education. Finally, selected scholars must commit to participating in SHE-CAN’s pre-college program from January to June, dedicating their time to this without full-time employment. Access to a reliable internet connection and a computer for daily communication is also necessary.

Application Process

The application process for the SHE-CAN Scholar Program requires several documents and information. Applicants will need to submit their high school transcripts for grades 10, 11, and 12, along with their national exam score reports. If these documents are not in English, official or self-translated versions are acceptable. An estimate of the family’s monthly income is also required to assess financial need.

Applicants should also include any score reports they have for standardized tests such as the SAT, ACT, IELTS, or TOEFL, if they have already taken them. There is no application fee, making the program accessible to all eligible candidates. The application must be submitted through country-specific links provided by SHE-CAN.

Conclusion

The SHE-CAN Scholar Program presents a significant opportunity for ambitious young women in Cambodia, Liberia, and Guatemala to access higher education in the United States. By offering financial support, mentorship, and leadership development, the program aims to cultivate the next generation of leaders who will return to their home countries and drive positive change. Meeting the eligibility requirements and diligently completing the application process are the first steps toward realizing this transformative educational journey.