Managed by the British Council on behalf of the Department for the Economy, Study USA gives 60 students from across Northern Ireland the chance to spend a full academic year at an American college or university, with successful applicants placed across 24 states, from Texas and Florida to Washington and Nebraska.

Launched in 1994 to support the Northern Ireland peace process, Study USA has been running for over 30 years. To date, the programme has supported more than 2,500 students, helping them build academic, cultural, and professional links with the United States.

Initially focused on business and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) subjects, the programme has evolved to offer a broader academic experience. Students can now take modules in areas such as Entrepreneurship, Leadership, Communications, Marketing and PR, Human Resources, and Languages, alongside courses linked to their home degrees. This immersive experience fosters not only academic growth but also cross-cultural understanding and personal development.

This year, 19 students from Queen’s are currently taking part in the programme, studying a wide range of subjects including Zoology, History, Medicine, Computer Science, and Economics.

Tara Phillips from Newry, a Psychology student at Queen’s, is spending a year at North Carolina Wesleyan University in North Carolina. She said:

“I’ve always loved travelling and trying new things, so when I found out about the Study USA programme, I couldn’t say no. The chance to live and study in a completely different part of the world really excited me. I know this experience will help me stand out professionally, but it will also push me to grow personally. Moving so far from home is a big step, but I’m ready for the adventure.

“As a second-year psychology student, studying in the US will give me the opportunity to explore new subjects and see how psychology connects with other fields, especially business, which really interests me. I’ve heard amazing stories from past participants about how much they gained in confidence and independence, and I think this year will do the same for me. Living in a new country and getting involved on campus will definitely push me out of my comfort zone in the best way. I know I’ll come home more independent, resilient, and with a broader outlook on life.”

Meanwhile, Amy Duffy from Donemana, Co Tyrone, a Zoology student at Queen’s, is currently studying at Agnes Scott College in Georgia. Amy said:

“As a Zoology student, I’ve always been aware of the importance of diversity - both biological and cultural - so the opportunity to experience life and education in the United States felt invaluable. Study USA offers the chance to immerse myself in a different culture, take business classes that complement my science background and gain life skills like self-reliance and confidence that are crucial in any career.

“I’m especially excited to explore my passions through classes like Sustainability, French, and Economics, and to experience US college life first-hand. This year abroad will not only support my academic and personal development but also help shape my future, particularly as I pursue a career in climate change mitigation and global conservation.”

The Study USA programme receives significant support from partner institutions in the United States, with annual funding exceeding more than €2 million. The generous scholarship package includes accommodation on campus, a full meal plan, tuition fees, book allowance, flights, and a £1,000 bursary.

Mary Mallon, Head of Education, British Council Northern Ireland, added:

“We’d love to see even more students from Queen’s take up the opportunity to apply for Study USA. It’s a truly life-changing programme - one that goes far beyond academics. As well as gaining valuable experience in the classroom, students are encouraged to immerse themselves in a new culture, build lasting friendships, and develop the kind of confidence, adaptability and global awareness that employers are really looking for.

“Queen’s students have so much to offer, and this is a chance to try something completely different, experience life on a US campus, and return home with new skills, fresh perspectives and memories that will last a lifetime. If you’re even a little bit curious, come along to one of the upcoming information sessions, in person or online, and find out if Study USA could be the right fit for you.”

Queen’s students can find out more about the Study USA programme at the following events:

• Tuesday 14 & Wednesday 15 October: QUB Careers Fair (11am-3pm)
• Tuesday 21 October: One Elmwood Stand (timing tbc)
• Wednesday 29 October: Online Information Session (2pm-3pm)
• Tuesday 4 November: F2F Information Session (3pm-4pm)

Applications for the 2026–27 programme are now open and close on Sunday, 9 November.

For more information, visit: nireland.britishcouncil.org/opportunities/study-usa 

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