Overseas Schools Program

The Office of Overseas Schools (A/GO/PST/OS) promotes high-quality educational opportunities at the elementary and secondary school levels for dependents of U.S. citizens who are personnel under Chief of Mission authority assigned abroad. The Office also works to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and other countries by supporting educational institutions that demonstrate U.S. educational practices, principles, and methods. These schools serve as showcases for U.S. education and are expected to meet high standards, including U.S. accreditation, while fostering cultural exchange and collaboration.

Grants are generally restricted to selected overseas elementary and secondary schools that meet specific criteria established by the Department of State. To apply, a school must first determine its eligibility under the criteria outlined in 2 FAM 614, obtain concurrence from the U.S. embassy or consulate at its location, and submit required documentation such as its constitution, bylaws, and other pertinent materials for review. The post must recommend the school for assistance, confirming its ability to meet the needs of dependent children of U.S. citizens under Chief of Mission authority. Only schools that fulfill these requirements may apply for grants.

Dependents of American citizens carrying out programs and interests of the U.S. Government abroad are the primary beneficiaries.

The Office of Overseas Schools, in coordination with key stakeholders, determines a school’s eligibility for grant funding. Once eligibility is confirmed, the school submits a grant application to A/GO/PST/OS, who reviews the request, analyzes the anticipated impact of the grant funding, determines the grant amount and approved purposes, and prepares the necessary documentation. These documents are then sent to the school and the relevant post for execution. The school signs the documents and returns copies to both the post and A/GO/PST/OS.