MIUSA Leadership and Orientation Programs for Youth with Disabilities

Each year, youth from over 50 countries are selected for highly competitive, fully funded educational exchange programs sponsored by the U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA).

MIUSA collaborates with program implementing partner American Councils for International Education and ECA to support the full inclusion and participation of students with diverse disabilities in the FLEX and YES Programs.  MIUSA provides disability-related support and resource information at all stages of the exchange programs; from identifying accommodations and accessibility supports during the application phase as well as facilitating the in-person Preparatory Workshop in the U.S. designed specifically for students with disabilities. 

During the MIUSA Preparatory Workshop, students with disabilities learn about U.S. disability culture and rights, discover assistive technologies, visit a U.S. high school, participate in recreation activities, volunteer with local organizations and more.  MIUSA staff and a team of educational professionals work with students to compile information about students’ skills and access needs.  The information and key recommendations are shared with students’ hosting organizations to help prepare for a successful year in the U.S.