Education & Opportunities

Resources

A curated collection of educational programs, scholarships, and opportunities for Afghan girls and women — vetted by our team and organized to help you find the right path forward.

Number of Resources found: 22

Alekain Foundation's Claim Your Diploma Initiative

Virtual

The Alekain Foundation's Claim Your Diploma Initiative is a fully funded online education program that enables Afghan girls aged 16 and above who are living in Afghanistan to earn an accredited U.S. high school diploma through Smart Schools International. Designed for students who have completed middle school, the program offers flexible, self-paced coursework that can be completed within 16 to 24 months. In addition to academic instruction, participants receive mentorship, academic assistance, mental wellness support, and essential technology to help them succeed. Graduates earn an internationally recognized diploma that expands their opportunities for higher education and future careers. Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency (minimum B2 CEFR), leadership potential, and a strong commitment to continuing their education. The application deadline for the 2026–2027 cohort is August 30, 2026.

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Alekain Foundation's Claim Your Diploma Initiative

Rumi Organization for Research – Free Duolingo Vouchers for Afghan Applicants (Round 7)

Virtual

The Rumi Organization for Research is offering Round 7 of its Free Duolingo Voucher Program for Afghan applicants, providing eligible candidates with access to the Duolingo English Test to support academic and professional goals. Applicants must prepare thoroughly using Rumi’s provided tutorials, achieve a minimum practice test score of 130, and submit a full-screen screenshot of their results (including date and time) taken after May 4, 2026. The program strictly requires original applications—use of AI or any writing assistance tools leads to automatic disqualification. Shortlisted applicants will be contacted before June 29, 2026, and no rejection emails will be sent. This opportunity is open regardless of age, and applicants are strongly encouraged to apply only when fully prepared with both a strong test score and a genuine personal statement. For resources, visit https://rumi.af/tuts or contact voucher@rumi.af.

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Rumi Organization for Research – Free Duolingo Vouchers for Afghan Applicants (Round 7)

Second Chance

Global

Second Chance is a free global program that supports high-achieving, low-income students who have been accepted to university but lack the financial means to attend. The program helps students secure full scholarships, including tuition, room, and board, at top universities worldwide after the traditional admissions cycle. It is designed for students who have not yet enrolled in university and are still seeking a financially viable path to higher education. The application deadline is April 7, 2026 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.

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Second Chance

Become a Global Mentor with MENTEE

Virtual

MENTEE is a global, human-centered mentorship platform and an EmpowerHer partner, connecting adults (18+) impacted by crisis, poverty, and systemic barriers with mentors who can help them build self-directed futures through guidance, skill-sharing, and support. As a Global Mentor, you’ll join a flexible, non-hierarchical community where you can contribute as little as one hour per month, using your education and professional experience to empower others while learning from a diverse global network. After completing a short training and creating your profile, you can connect with mentees seeking your expertise. To join, sign up through the MENTEE Portal as a mentor and be sure to affiliate yourself with “EmpowerHer” during registration. MENTEE's official website: https://menteeglobal.org. If you have any questions, please reach out to: global@menteeglobal.org.

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Become a Global Mentor with MENTEE

SOLA 2026 Admissions for Afghan Girls

Rwanda, Africa

SOLA (School of Leadership, Afghanistan) is a boarding school for Afghan girls now based in Rwanda that provides free education, housing, and support to help them become future leaders; the school focuses on strong academics, leadership skills, and building confidence so girls can help rebuild Afghanistan, and it also offers a free online program called SOLAx that allows girls to study from anywhere using just a phone and internet. SOLA is currently accepting applications from Afghan girls under 18 around the world, with forms available in English, Dari, and Pashto, and the deadline to apply is June 15, 2026.

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SOLA 2026 Admissions for Afghan Girls

United Nations Short Course - AMPLIFY Afghan Women

Virtual

The United Nations Short Course by AMPLIFY Afghan Women is an online program for Afghan women and girls worldwide, designed to build understanding of the United Nations, global governance, and how to write proposals for international organizations. The course includes five weekly English-language sessions on Wednesdays in April 2026, covering the UN’s structure, its role in supporting Afghanistan, and proposal writing skills. At the end, participants can submit a written proposal for a competition, with top submissions presenting at an online conference attended by UN and other aid or government staff. Financial prizes will be awarded to the top three proposals. The program is free, open to Afghan women and girls globally, and registration closes on 27 March 2026 (Kabul time).

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United Nations Short Course - AMPLIFY Afghan Women

Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships 2026

Ireland (at eligible Irish higher education institutions)

The Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship supports high-calibre international students who want to study at postgraduate level in Ireland. The programme is funded by the Government of Ireland in partnership with Irish higher education institutions and managed by the Higher Education Authority. Each year, 60 scholarships are awarded for one year of full-time study at NFQ Level 9 or 10 (master’s, postgraduate diploma, or PhD). The scholarship provides a €10,000 stipend and a full tuition fee waiver from the host institution. Applicants must receive admission to an eligible Irish higher education institution and demonstrate strong academic achievement, communication skills, extracurricular involvement, and a clear motivation for studying in Ireland. The application deadline for 2026 is 5 pm Irish time on 12 March 2026.

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Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships 2026

Preventive Diplomacy Academy (PDA) 2026

Virtual

The United Nations Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA) is accepting applications for the 2026 Preventive Diplomacy Academy (PDA), a fully online program designed to bring together young leaders from Central Asia and Afghanistan to engage with diplomacy, peacebuilding, and conflict prevention through the Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS) agenda; the academy is open to women and men aged 18–29 from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Afghanistan who are currently studying political science, international relations, international economic relations, law, or sociology, with applications from persons with disabilities strongly encouraged, and applicants must complete an online application and submit a 60–90 second video titled “Why I am suitable to participate in the Preventive Diplomacy Academy,” with selection based on academic or professional background, community or volunteering experience, creativity, and English proficiency. | Deadline: 28 February 2026

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Preventive Diplomacy Academy (PDA) 2026

SCHOLARSHIPS-CANADA

Canada (Financial Aid, Grants, Scholarships, and Bursaries)

ScholarshipsCanada.com – A comprehensive Canadian scholarship database and search platform where students can browse thousands of scholarships, bursaries, student awards, and financial aid opportunities across Canada. Users create a profile with their education details and interests, and the site matches them with awards that fit their profile, including eligibility criteria, deadlines, and application info. It covers a wide range of fields of study and levels of education, and includes tools like deadline alerts to help organize applications.

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SCHOLARSHIPS-CANADA

Zan Times Women’s Journalism Fellowship (2026)

Afghanistan (remote/online, for women residing inside Afghanistan)

The Zan Times Women’s Journalism Fellowship offers Afghan women living inside Afghanistan the opportunity to participate in a 10-month paid journalism fellowship starting in March 2026. Designed for women committed to ethical, independent reporting, the program supports aspiring and experienced journalists through specialized training, weekly editorial mentorship, and hands-on reporting experience. The fellowship aims to strengthen women-led journalism focused on documenting human rights violations in Afghanistan, particularly in regions where women journalists are absent. Selected fellows receive a monthly stipend of USD 250, professional mentorship from international journalists, and access to long-term media and career development opportunities. Application opens: January 19, 2026 | Deadline: February 5, 2026 | Program start: March 2026 | Website: www.zantimes.com

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Zan Times Women’s Journalism Fellowship (2026)

Women Leaders of Tomorrow (WLOT)

Canada - High School Scholarship

The Women Leaders of Tomorrow (WLOT) High School Scholarship Program offers Afghan female students the opportunity to pursue high school education in Canada in 2026. Designed for academically strong and highly motivated girls aged 16–17, the program supports students with excellent academic records, strong English proficiency, and clear leadership potential. Selected students gain access to international education, personal development, and long-term leadership growth opportunities. Applications must be submitted by email only, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further steps. Deadline: January 31, 2026 | Contact Email: info@womenleaders.ca | Website: www.womenleaders.ca

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Women Leaders of Tomorrow (WLOT)

AVESTA-CACC Scholarship Program

Virtual

The AVESTA-CACC Scholarship Program offers 50 fully funded online diploma scholarships for Afghan girls through a partnership between the Avesta Initiative for Higher Learning and Canadian All Care College (CACC). Participants can study remotely in fields such as Banking & Financial Services, Medical Office Administration, Digital Marketing, and Supply Chain Management & Logistics. Applicants must have completed high school, possess good English skills, and have internet access. The program helps Afghan girls gain career-ready skills and pursue higher education opportunities. Applications are open from October 3 to October 31, 2025, and classes begin in January 2026. 📧 Contact Email: applications@avestainitiative.org 🌐 Website: www.avestainitiative.org

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AVESTA-CACC Scholarship Program

Learning Baskets (Right to Learn Afghanistan)

Virtual

Right to Learn Afghanistan runs the Learning Baskets program, which provides families with educational materials to support learning at home, including storybooks, literacy activities, and recipes. Their Learning Plus Baskets combine these learning materials with essential food staples—like rice, flour, lentils, and tea—so families facing economic hardship can continue learning while meeting basic needs. You can contact info@righttolearn.ca for more information or to get involved.

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Learning Baskets (Right to Learn Afghanistan)

Women For Afghan Women (WAW)

Virtual & In Person

Women for Afghan Women (WAW) is a nonprofit founded in 2001 that empowers Afghan women and girls through protection, education, and advocacy. It provides legal aid, shelter, counseling, and skills training for survivors of violence, while also supporting displaced families and immigrant women in the U.S. WAW works to advance gender equality and envisions a world where Afghan women and girls live with peace, freedom, and equal rights.

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Women For Afghan Women (WAW)

Afghan Girls Financial Assistance Fund (AGFAF)

Virtual

The Afghan Girls Financial Assistance Fund (AGFAF) is a nonprofit organization that empowers Afghan girls and young women through education. It provides scholarships and financial aid for students to attend schools and universities in Afghanistan and abroad. AGFAF also supports projects like coding classes, STEAM camps, and community initiatives, and has established libraries to expand access to learning. With over $10 million awarded in scholarships and partnerships with 50 institutions, AGFAF continues to help Afghan girls pursue education and become future leaders.

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Afghan Girls Financial Assistance Fund (AGFAF)

Afghans for Progressive Thinking (APT) / APT Youth

Virtual

Afghans for Progressive Thinking (APT), also known as APT Youth, empowers Afghan women and youth through education, advocacy, and mentorship. Its Mentorship for Higher Education program connects young Afghan women with experienced mentors who guide them in applying to universities and scholarships, improving academic writing, and building confidence. The program offers workshops and mentorship tracks such as advocacy and academic writing to meet individual needs. APT aims to help Afghan girls gain access to global education and develop into leaders who promote equality and positive change in their communities.

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Afghans for Progressive Thinking (APT) / APT Youth

Sahar Education

Virtual & In Person (Afghanistan)

Sahar provides safe, innovative education programs for Afghan girls and women, including secret tech and literacy classes, online learning in English and math, Coursera-based skills training, and support resources like mental health, job prep, and scholarships—all built to empower learners in even the most challenging conditions.

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Sahar Education

Advocacy to Stop Gender Apartheid

Virtual

This is an Advocacy Course on the Codification of Gender Apartheid as a Crime Against Humanity. It examines historical and contemporary examples, legal frameworks, and ongoing efforts to establish gender apartheid within international criminal law. Participants will gain insight into the social, political, and legal dimensions of gender apartheid, equipping them with the tools to advocate for accountability and justice. The course emphasizes the importance of preparing individuals and organizations before they embark on advocacy projects to ensure they have the knowledge, skills, and network that will set them up for success.

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Advocacy to Stop Gender Apartheid

Shafia Education Access

Virtual

The Shafia Education Access Program provides small grants to Afghan women and girls to support their education by covering essential costs such as tuition, learning devices, internet packages, and transportation. Open to learners of all ages and education levels, the program prioritizes the most urgent needs and requires a complete application and supporting documents. Applicants may receive support for one item per application cycle, with a maximum of 45,000 AFN in funds or in-kind support.

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Shafia Education Access

English for Education & Career Success

Virtual

English for Education & Career Success is a free online English program for Afghan women, offered by Right to Learn Afghanistan in partnership with Arizona State University. Designed for low-bandwidth and self-paced learning, it includes Levels 1–4 for everyday English, Levels 5–8 for critical thinking and academic writing, and a Business English course covering proposals, meetings, and contracts. After a placement test, students are enrolled in the right level and can study on phones, tablets, or laptops from anywhere.

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English for Education & Career Success

Pathway to Tech (PAT) Project

Virtual

Offered by the Muslim Association of Puget Sound in partnership with Skillspire, the PAT Project equips underrepresented individuals—including immigrants, refugees, and veterans—with high-quality STEM training, financial aid, laptops, and career placement in the tech industry. The program provides hands-on courses in web development, cybersecurity, and data analytics, with full support for job readiness and long-term success in tech.

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Pathway to Tech (PAT) Project

LEARN Afghan

Virtual & In Person (Afghanistan)

LEARN provides free Pashto- and Dari-language education for Grades 1–12, reaching millions via online schools and offline apps in STEM subjects, coding, biophysics, and more. They operate digital schools and community centers across provinces like Kandahar, Herat, and Samangan and deliver humanitarian support—including food aid, menstrual health training, and maternal care—while empowering girls and youth through digital skills and leadership development.

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LEARN Afghan

Know a resource?

Help us grow this list.

If you know of an educational resource, scholarship, or program that supports Afghan girls and women, we'd love to hear about it. Reach out and help us connect more girls with the opportunities they deserve.

info@empowerher-initiative.org