Model United Nations Summer Exchange 2017

Applications due March 31, 2017

The Embassy of the United States in Mexico welcomes applications from first and second year high school
students from all over Mexico with no previous Model United Nations (MUN) experience to participate in the
Model United Nations Institute at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA). This week-long
exchange in the Level 1: Diplomat course is hosted by Best Delegate from July 30 to August 5, 2017.

Model United Nation simulations allow students to participate in mock United Nations committees, in which
young men and women debate current international topics and propose solutions through diplomacy and
international cooperation. Participants in this summer program will develop and fine-tune skills such as
leadership, communication and public speaking, debate, research, and problem solving, all in English!

The Embassy of the United States of America in Mexico will send up to nine Mexican students to participate
in Best Delegates Model United Nations Institute program, which will be attended by other foreign and U.S.
high school students. This exchange program is offered at NO COST to selected participants, except for costs
associated with acquiring a Mexican passport and English language exams. Costs covered by the Embassy
include round-trip bus passage to the U.S. Embassy/Consulate for visa processing prior to the summer
program, visa fee waivers (applicants will still need to qualify for a visa), international round-trip airfare to
Los Angeles, CA, and accommodation, meals, and program materials while at the MUN Institute from July
30 to August 5, 2017.

Selected participants agree to hold a MUN simulation in Mexico at their schools during the 2017-2018
academic year, using the skills they will have learned during the summer program. Participants will receive
assistance and guidance from the staff at Best Delegate and the Public Affairs Section of the U.S. Embassy in
Mexico City when planning and executing their simulations.

Qualifications:

- Mexican citizenship (candidates with dual U.S. and Mexican nationalities or U.S. resident status are
ineligible).
- Enrollment in the first or second year of a public or private high school institution.
- High academic proficiency. Minimum grade point average of 9.0
- Have a valid Mexican passport.
- Proof of intermediate to advanced English proficiency (the entire program will be held in English).
- Be interested in global issues and comfortable in a multi-cultural environment.
- Commit to organize and develop a Model United Nations simulation in his/her school during the
academic year 2017 2018.
- Selected participants should be able to discuss Mexicos political, economic, and social issues, as well
as Mexicos position on international topics.
- Previous experience participating at Model United Nations simulations is NOT required. Participants
will be enrolled in the Diplomat Program, an introductory session that features lessons on how to start
and lead Model UN activities.
 Application instructions:

1. Submit the following package to USEmbCultural@state.gov by March 31, 2017:

a. Completed Application Form available at https://goo.gl/forms/2T4gTdfN2x4wfGXE3;
b. Recent academic transcript with a minimum grade point average of 9.0;
c. Reference letter from a teacher emphasizing academic or extracurricular achievements;
d. One page statement of interest in English detailing your qualifications, how would you
benefit from the summer program and most importantly demonstrating your commitment
to holding a MUN simulation no later than May 2018; and
e. Proof of English language proficiency, with a minimum score of:
i. TOEFL ITP - 500
ii. TOEFL IBT - 60
iii. Cambridge or IELTS - B1
1. While the previous certificates are preferred, if you are not able to take one
of these exams, please have an English teacher complete the Report of
English Language.

Important dates:
- Application deadline: March 31, 2017.
- Applications review: April 3 - 7, 2017.
- Selected participants notified: April 10, 2017.
- Summer program: July 30 to August 5, 2017.
- Implementation of your MUN simulation no later than: May 30, 2018.