International Exchange Programs

Connecting Georgia to the World since 1962

Professional International Exchange Programs in Georgia

The Georgia Council for International Visitors (GCIV) implements a wide range of professional bipartisan international exchange programs across the state of Georgia on behalf of the U.S. Department of State and other federal agencies. The exchange programs are designed for emerging and established global leaders and provide Georgia communities with direct access to international perspectives through structured, purpose-driven engagement.

GCIV administers and supports multiple exchange formats, including the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), Fee-for-Service programs, Fulbright Program enrichment activities, and the Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI). Each international exchange program advances mutual understanding through professional dialogue, community engagement, and people-to-people citizen diplomacy.

Who Participates?

International Exchange participants include:

  • International leaders and professionals from many different sectors such as government, business, education, media, science, and civil society

  • Emerging entrepreneurs, scholars, and policymakers

International exchange participants are nominated by U.S. Embassies worldwide and selected by the U.S. Department of State and other federal agencies to visit Georgia under the auspices of bipartisan professional international exchange programs.

IVLP participants typically spend 3-4 weeks on a one-way exchange to the U.S. during which they experience firsthand different parts of the country, big cities and small towns, and meet their professional counterparts to impart a broader understanding of America. Based on professional resources and historical relevance, Georgia often hosts programs themed around public health, civil and human rights and media/journalism. Upcoming international exchange programs are announced on GCIV’s calendar and in GCIV’s monthly e-newsletter.

Georgia citizens contribute by:

GCIV coordinates each international exchange to ensure visits are well-structured, respectful, and aligned with program goals.

Role of Georgians

International Visitors Experience

During their time in Georgia, international visitors engage in:

  • Professional meetings and site visits with sector peers

  • Roundtable discussions and public forums

  • Cultural and community-based activities

  • Informal exchanges, including dinner hospitality, that offer insight into local life

These experiences provide international exchange participants with a comprehensive view of American society at the local level, complementing their professional objectives.

International exchanges in Georgia support:

  • Stronger worldwide professional networks

  • Long-term collaboration across borders

  • Increased global awareness within Georgia communities

  • Mutual understanding through sustained people-to-people engagement

Exchange programs strengthen Georgia’s role in international affairs while contributing to broader U.S. public diplomacy efforts.

Global Impact

Frequently Asked Questions

  • GCIV primarily administers and supports the U.S. Department of State International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), Fee-for-Service programs, Fulbright enrichment activities, and YLAI exchanges.

  • International exchange participants are nominated by U.S. embassies around the world and selected by the U.S. Department of State and other federal agencies.

  • Yes! GCIV relies on volunteer professional resources for the majority of exchange programs. Many international exchange programs also include opportunities for community engagement, such as dinner hospitality and occasionally member-only or public events.

  • Visit the GCIV calendar and subscribe to GCIV’s monthly e-newsletter to view upcoming international visitors and exchange activities in Georgia.

Other Questions?

Do you have other questions? Contact Emily Shaw at emily@gciv.org.