The applications for U.S. host schools for the 2024-2025 academic year are CLOSED to the public.

There will be no recruitment or open host school applications for new host schools in the United States for the 2024-25 cycle. U.S host schools that currently serve as hosts to Mandarin teachers will have an opportunity to host by invitation only.  Current host schools will receive information on the process via email.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The Teachers of Critical Languages Program (TCLP) is a program of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the United States Department of State and is implemented by American Councils for International Education: ACTR/ACCELS. This program seeks to strengthen foreign language instruction at U.S. schools, while also providing the selected exchange teachers the opportunity to learn about U.S. teaching methodologies, culture, and society. Exchange teachers will teach Mandarin Chinese or Modern Standard Arabic and will also serve as a cultural resource in the host school and community. 

PROGRAM ORGANIZATIONS  

Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of The U.S. Department of State 

The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) of the U.S. Department of State fosters mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries to promote friendly, and peaceful relations, as mandated by the Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961. 

ECA accomplishes its mission through a range of programs based on the benefits of mutual understanding, international educational and cultural exchange, and leadership development. ECA engages youth, students, educators, artists, athletes, and rising leaders in many fields in the United States and more than 160 countries through academic, cultural, sports, and professional exchanges. Striving to reflect the diversity of the United States and global society, ECA programs, funding, and other activities encourage the involvement of American and international participants from traditionally underrepresented groups, including women, racial and ethnic minorities, and people with disabilities. 

ECA exchange program alumni encompass over one million people around the world, including more than 75 Nobel Laureates and nearly 450 current and former heads of state and government. 

American Councils for International Education 

American Councils for International Education is a premier, international nonprofit creating educational opportunities that prepare individuals and institutions to succeed in an increasingly interconnected and rapidly changing world. Through academic exchanges, overseas language immersion, data-focused research, and educational development programs, American Councils designs and implements innovative programs that broaden individual perspectives, increase knowledge, and deepen understanding. A leader in international education, academic exchange, language acquisition and assessment, and research, American Councils is helping to build a world of globally competent citizens, successful institutions, and responsible nations. 

Additional Information: If you have further questions about the application process, please contact TCLP staff at tclp@americancouncils.org, or by phone at 202-833-7522.