The SHE-CAN Scholar Program: A Pathway to U.S. Higher 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 who possess leadership potential and a strong desire to create positive change in their home countries but may lack the financial resources for a U.S. college education. SHE-CAN aims to bridge this gap by providing comprehensive support, from test preparation to securing full-ride scholarships at top American universities.

Understanding the SHE-CAN Scholar Program

SHE-CAN stands for “Scholarships for Higher Education, And College Access.” The program focuses on identifying and nurturing young women leaders who have demonstrated passion and potential. By offering access to a world-class college education, mentorship, and leadership training in the U.S., SHE-CAN equips these scholars with the tools they need to return to their countries and assume leadership roles. The ultimate goal is to empower these women to drive meaningful change and development within their communities and nations.

Funding Details for SHE-CAN Scholars

The SHE-CAN Scholar Program utilizes a multi-faceted funding approach to ensure scholars can pursue their educational dreams without significant financial burden.

College-Funded Scholarships

The primary source of funding comes from full-ride scholarships secured from U.S. colleges and universities. These scholarships typically cover the costs of tuition, accommodation, and meals for the duration of the scholar’s undergraduate studies. SHE-CAN guides scholars through the rigorous application process to help them secure these prestigious awards.

SHE-CAN Organizational Support

Beyond the college scholarship, SHE-CAN provides additional financial support for expenses not covered by the university. This includes funding for test preparation classes and associated costs, as well as essential fees such as passport and visa applications. SHE-CAN also covers the cost of flights to the U.S. and back home, along with textbooks and health insurance.

Scholar and Family Contributions

While SHE-CAN strives to minimize out-of-pocket expenses, scholars and their families are expected to contribute in specific ways. Scholars are responsible for covering the travel costs to and from test preparation classes held in their country’s capital city. Once in the U.S., scholars are expected to work on campus to cover their personal expenses, like toiletries and other daily necessities. It’s important to note that while SHE-CAN provides health insurance, it does not cover medical expenses beyond what the insurance policy includes, such as dental or vision care.

Eligibility Requirements for Aspiring Scholars

To be considered for the SHE-CAN Scholar Program, candidates must meet a specific set of criteria designed to identify motivated and capable young women.

Age and Academic Background

Applicants must be women between the ages of 17 and 20. They should be high school graduates or on track to graduate by June 2027. The program is for undergraduate studies, so candidates should have less than one year of post-secondary education.

Leadership and Passion for Change

A core requirement is a demonstrated passion for improving one’s country and existing leadership experience within their school or community. SHE-CAN seeks individuals who are already showing initiative and a commitment to making a difference.

Financial Need and English Proficiency

Applicants must come from low-income households, as the program aims to support those who would otherwise lack the opportunity for a U.S. education. Strong English speaking and writing skills are critical, as U.S. universities require high scores on official language exams like TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo. Candidates with weaker English skills are advised to spend a year improving their language abilities before applying.

Academic Strength and Commitment

Scholars must be academically strong, with consistently high grades and good scores on national exams or standardized tests like WAEC/WASSCE. A significant commitment is required, as accepted scholars must dedicate their time from January to June to SHE-CAN’s pre-college program, meaning they cannot work full-time during this period. Daily access to a reliable internet connection and a computer is also necessary for communication and program participation.

Application Process and Required Documents

The application for the SHE-CAN Scholar Program is free of charge. Prospective scholars will need to gather several documents to complete their application.

Necessary Documentation

Applicants must submit their high school transcripts for grades 10, 11, and 12, along with their national exam score report or WAEC/WASSCE score report. If these documents are not in English, self-translations are acceptable. An estimate of the family’s monthly income is also required to assess financial need. If available, score reports for standardized tests like the SAT, ACT, IELTS, or TOEFL should be included.

Country-Specific Application Links

Applications are submitted through country-specific links provided by SHE-CAN:

• Cambodia: Apply Here
• Guatemala: Apply Here
• Liberia: Apply Here

For more detailed information, applicants are encouraged to visit the official SHE-CAN Scholar Program website.

Conclusion

The SHE-CAN Scholar Program represents a significant opportunity for ambitious young women in Cambodia, Liberia, and Guatemala to access higher education in the United States. By providing financial support, academic preparation, and leadership development, SHE-CAN empowers scholars to achieve their academic goals and return to their home countries ready to lead and make a lasting impact. The program’s commitment to supporting low-income students underscores its mission to foster global leadership and drive positive social change.