Community Connections Program
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I apply for the Community Connections program?

A: All participants must complete applications that correspond to the Community Connections program in which they are interested. Applications are then evaluated by independent reviewers. Program applicants must provide two recommendation letters. Candidates must return completed applications at either the American Councils Bishkek or Osh offices. If selected as a semi-finalist, applicants then must participate in individual interviews with members of American Councils, USAID or independent experts in their field. Interviews with candidates are conducted in Russian and/or Kyrgyz.

USAID Community Connections program alumna Gulnara Derbisheva meeting with local Aksakals. Since participating in the 2006 theme “NGO Development and the Role of Associations,” Derbisheva has helped encourage more women to become members of community courts and promote female involvement in solving social issues in rural communities.   

Q: Do I need to know English to apply to the Community Connections program?

A: Applicants interested in the Community Connections Professional Exchange Program do NOT need to know English; translators will be provided in the United States for the group.

Q: Do I need recommendations to apply to the Community Connections program?

A: Yes, Community Connections requires recommendations. Applicants must provide two recommendations from colleagues or their superiors who know their professional skills and can attest to their character.

Q: What documents do I need to apply to the Community Connections program?

A: You have to fill out the program application form in Russian and provide us with a passport-sized photo with two recommendations.

Q: Do I need an international passport to apply for the Community Connections program?

A: You are not required to have an international passport to apply for the Community Connections program. You do not need an international passport prior to the application or interview; however, if you are selected as a finalist for the program, you will need to obtain an international passport immediately in order to apply for a visa to travel to the United States.

Q: What kind of US visa do I receive if I participate in the Community Connections program?

A: You will receive J-1 visa. Once traveling on a J-1 visa, participants must fulfill a 2-year home stay requirement. Thus, after your travel to the United States, you will be required to return to Kyrgyzstan for 2 years. During this 2-year period, you may not receive a Green Card or apply for a work or immigration visa. You may, however, apply for a tourism, J-1 or private visa during this two-year period if the travel is approved by the U.S. consulate.

Q: If I was previously denied a US visa, may I apply to the Community Connections program?

A: You may apply to the Community Connections program and we will consider your application, but we cannot guarantee that you will receive a visa to travel with the program.

Q: What do I have to pay to participate in the Community Connections program?

A: Participants pay only for your passport and travel within Kyrgyzstan. The Community Connections program provides airfare, housing and food, health insurance, and all costs of professional and cultural programs in the United States.

Q: How many people apply to the Community Connections program?

A: The number of participants varies based on each program; however, each applicant is ensured an equal chance. While the selection process for Community Connections is quite competitive, make sure you complete your application and attached all relevant documents requested.

Q: What happens if I am selected to participate in the Community Connections Program?

A: If you are selected as a conditional finalist, American Councils will contact you and give you more information about the dates of travel and upcoming orientation trainings designed to prepare you for your trip. It is mandatory that finalists attend all orientation trainings.