Ukraine Global Scholars (UGS) was founded in 2015 with a mission to break stereotypes and help capable young Ukrainians to obtain the best education for free and contribute to the development of Ukraine and the world.

Many of UGS founders are alumni of the USA/USA Program. USA/USA was created by Dr. Bohdan Oryshkevich and Dr. Olena Prokopovych in 1992. Since then, Dr. Oryshkevich has run the program pro bono. He has been committed to his vision to educate young Ukrainians at top American institutions on full scholarships, in order to supply intellectual talent for Ukraine. USA/USA has been supported by a number of establishments, including the Coordinating Committee to Aid Ukraine (USA) Inc., a 501(c)3 organization. The program has had 60 alumni who won scholarships to prestigious American institutions, including Harvard, University of Pennsylvania, MIT, Stanford.

In 2009 when the seminars stopped for some period of time, participants have sought ways to continue empowering young Ukrainian students. The thought process led to the creation of Ukraine Global Scholars. Founders of UGS gained much from their experience at USA/USA and aim to give back to individuals and organizations that provided unmatched educational opportunities for them.

In its mission, UGS encourages its students to use the knowledge they gain from training and abroad studies to make a positive change in Ukraine.

UGS via fair competition works to gather talented Ukrainian students who have the potential to succeed at the best American colleges and preparatory schools. The program welcomes the support of those who would like to contribute to Ukraine’s talent growth, whether with ideas or financial means.

UGS wants to create scientists, activists, and leaders able to cooperate and be a forefront example of success for other young individuals in Ukraine. Eventually, UGS aims to become a center of connection for Ukrainian leaders globally.

Can I apply to UGS if I am a university student?

As of March 31 (UGS application deadline) you should be enrolled at a Ukrainian high school (grades 8 through 11). Depending on your age and achievements, we will decide if you'll be a boarding school or college applicant. We do not work with Ukrainian university students and we don't help transfer from one university to another.

Do you guarantee admission to any college, university, or boarding school?

No. We do not guarantee admission to college or university. We work individually with every student and do our best in preparing them, but the final result ultimately depends only on a student.

Do you have an affiliation with any college, university, or boarding school?

No. Besides having studied in some of the best U.S. universities, we do not have any affiliation with those establishments and cannot impact the decision of their admission committee.

Why are you helping me? What are you getting from this?

It might be hard to believe, but we are indeed doing this because we feel it is important for many more Ukrainians to get the best education possible. We truly believe that Ukraine will benefit (directly or indirectly) from a greater number of young, smart, and ambitious professionals. Once we were helped by other alumni, and now we would like to give back.

Where are you getting money to pay for program's expenses?

We are collecting money on a voluntary basis from Ukrainian alumni of top western schools as well as other individuals who would like to help our mission.

Can one pay the money to get into your program?

Absolutely not. We do not accept money from prospective or current participants of the program. You may donate money only after you graduate from a top school to help our mission.

Who pays for students' education abroad?

We select only the most talented students who will be eligible for scholarships from universities or boarding schools in the United States. Each university, college, or boarding school decides whether to cover education and expenses of each applicant. Usually, each of us was able to get full financial scholarships for the full duration of attending a preparatory school/undergraduate program that covered our education and living expenses.

What is the difference between a college and a university?

Both refer to higher educational establishments equivalent to Ukrainian institute or university. Colleges usually offer only undergraduate (Bachelor's) programs while universities offer both undergraduate and graduate (Master's, Ph.D.) programs.

Can I apply to your program twice?

Yes, and if we notice significant progress you have made in your professional and personal development over the year, we are more likely to accept you into the program.

What if I don't get admitted to any U.S. college, university, or boarding school?

U.S. admissions offices are not straightforward, and it is hard to say why some students get admitted and some don't. If you don't get admitted on the first attempt, we recommend that you reassess your application, try harder and apply next year. We know a few cases when students got admitted only after three years of trying. We will continue to help you if you demonstrate progress in your performance and continue displaying strong motivation to be part of our program.