Study of U.S. Institutes

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The Study of U.S. Institutes (SUSI) for Student Leaders is a program designed and sponsored by the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA), with funding provided by the U.S. Government, managed by Meridian International Center and administered by Northern Nevada International Center, at the University of Nevada, Reno.

Study of the U.S. Institutes (SUSIs) for Student Leaders are five-to-six-week academic programs designed for foreign undergraduate students between the ages of 18 and 25. SUSIs aim to promote a better understanding of American people and institutions, explore the diversity and culture of the United States and develop or expand curricula on the U.S. The Institutes include a four-week academic residency consisting of interactive classroom activities, discussions, lectures, readings, site visits and workshops; a one-week educational study tour to a different region of the United States; leadership skills building activities; community service; and opportunities to interact with their American peers on a college campus. Each Institute includes approximately 20 participants from selected countries.

Prospective participants should contact the Public Affairs Section of their local U.S. Embassy or Consulate for up-to-date information about 2023 Institutes. U.S. Embassies manage the nomination of candidates, as well as organize participants' visa interviews and pre-departure orientations. In some countries, Fulbright Commissions may select candidates.

John McCain’s study of the U.S. Institutes on the Rule of Law and Public Service (SUSI McCain)

Program dates: June 23-July 30, 2023

For more information, contact the Program Coordinator Sara Jones at sjones@nnic.org.

Study of the U.S. Institutes for Global Student Leaders, on Climate Change and the Environment (SUSI GSL)

Program dates: June 21-July 26, 2023

For more information,  contact the Program Coordinator Leah MacArt at lmacart@nnic.org.

Get involved

University of Nevada, Reno and Truckee Meadows Community College students can get involved in the SUSI program by applying to be a SUSI Ambassador. Ambassadors are a critical piece of the program and act as peer mentors, cultural liaisons, friends and student leaders. SUSI Ambassadors learn new skills, build their resume, make international friends, receive a stipend of $1,000 at the end of the program and have fun! 

If you have questions about the Ambassador program, please contact one of the Program Coordinators, or you may email susi@nnic.org.

Learn more about becoming a SUSI ambassador