Syrian Youth Empowerment Initiative

empowerment through education

Mission and Vision

The Syrian Youth Empowerment Initiative envisions a world in which all students from conflict zones have the opportunity to pursue their dreams of higher education, regardless of barriers posed by conflict. SYE empowers youth in conflict zones by providing a path to higher education to realize their potential and define their roles in their countries, societies, and the world.

2628

applicants since 2015

300+

students completed SYE programs

$40M

in scholarships offered to students

Our Programs

  • Prep Program

    The Prep Program supports students from Syria starting their junior year, or those who seek additional support prior to our One Year Program. To promote college readiness, we provide students with programming to strengthen their verbal and written English skills, develop academic knowledge across fields, and prepare for standardized exams.

  • One Year Program

    The One Year Program provides one-on-one mentoring and financial support to students from Syria who are navigating the college application process, preparing them to begin undergraduate degrees at competitive universities worldwide the following academic year. SYE comprehensively covers application expenses while our volunteer mentors support students in identifying universities, preparing for standardized exams, and writing application essays. We work closely with students to both secure admissions and identify scholarship opportunities to cover the full cost of attendance.

  • Grad Program

    The Grad Program provides support to students from Syria who are navigating the graduate school application process. SYE assists students in preparing for standardized exams, including the GRE, GMAT, IELTS, and TOEFL, writing application essays, and the necessary application logistics. We also connect students with counselors and experts to receive additional guidance. We work closely with students to both secure admissions and identify scholarship opportunities to cover the full cost of attendance.

Fund an SYE Student.

Students impacted by conflict are often unable to afford the hefty costs of application testing and fees. SYE’s comprehensive support eliminates this barrier. With your help we can fund a student through the application process.

SYE Alumni

Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.
— Nelson Mandela

Our Supporters