Questions?

Email us at info@elexprogram.org

Q: Who is eligible for the ELEX Program?

A: Candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements to be considered for the ELEX Program:

• Be a citizen of the Russian Federation;

• Be an English Language Teacher in Russia;

• Return to Russia upon program completion;

• Have no previous U.S. exchange experience in the past 7 years;

• Have proven English Language Teaching leadership experience;

• For ISTE: Tech-savvy, interested in using technology in teaching;

• For Group Lead: previous U.S. exchange experience.

  Persons with disabilities encouraged to apply.

Q: How long is the program, and when will it take place?

A: It is anticipated that the first two-week exchange will take place in March 2025, followed by the second one in July 2025.

Q: What expenses does the program cover?

A: All airfare, meals, and accommodation will be covered by the program. Participants will also receive health insurance during their stay in the U.S.

Q: How will COVID-19 affect my participation in this program?

A: Participants do not need to be tested or vaccinated for COVID-19. 

Q: Will I need to set up a visa appointment?

A: ELEX Program staff will coordinate visa appointments for finalists. Program participation is contingent on obtaining the visa, and we’re here to support you every step of the way to help make the process as smooth as possible. The U.S. embassy in Moscow may not be able to process visas for participants of this program. As such, program participants may need to travel to a third country to attend their visa interview. We cannot predict at this time which country that may be or when the interview would take place. 

All expenses related to visa interview travel including airfare, accommodation, and meal stipends will be provided for finalists.

Q: What makes a strong application for the ELEX Program?

A: Competitive applicants for the ELEX Program will demonstrate an interest in improving their English language pedagogy skills, learning about American culture, and sharing their experience upon return to local communities.

In the application essay, candidates should outline how they have demonstrated leadership qualities in the past, and how they hope to serve as a leader in their community or professional field in the future.

The Letter of Recommendation also gives us valuable insight. It could be from a teacher, school administrator, or work supervisor, and to the extent possible should be as specific as possible and provide detailed examples to support your candidacy. Letters should be no more than 2 pages in length, must include the letterhead of the school or organization with which your recommender is affiliated, and must be signed by the recommender. 

The resume is a short document, typically 1-2 pages, that includes relevant information about your academic and professional experience. You may include your academic background, work, leadership experience, language skills, awards, publications, and participation in academic/scientific conferences and organizations. 

Q: Are there any costs associated with the program?

A: The ELEX Program will cover all travel, accommodation, and meal expenses associated with the program. The program will also cover costs related to travel health insurance and visa-issuing fees. Participants will be responsible for obtaining an international passport if they do not have one at the time of submitting their application. 

Q: How do I apply?

A: Please submit your application for the ELEX exchange program. Note that as part of your application, you will be asked to upload an essay, an international passport copy, your resume, as well as copies of any past or current U.S. visas you may have received.

Please click this link to apply.

Q: Can I apply for both program exchanges, or am I limited to applying for just one?

A:  You have the option to apply for both conferences. However, it's important to note that each application will be reviewed separately. If you are selected as a finalist, you will have the opportunity to participate in one of the conferences, either SXSW EDU or ISTELive. If you wish to apply for both cohorts, you will need to submit two separate applications, one for each program.

Q: Am I eligible for the program if I am self-employed as an English teacher?

A:  Yes, you are eligible to participate in the ELEX program. However, as you are not currently employed by an organization, your ability to share the knowledge and expertise gained through the exchange may be somewhat limited, primarily reaching a smaller group of students, we would recommend addressing that in your essay.