Benjamin Franklin Transatlantic Fellowship

The Benjamin Franklin Transatlantic Fellowship (BFTF) is a program of the U.S. Department of State that brings together a group of intellectually curious students ages 16 to 18 from Europe and the United States to participate in an intensive four-week exchange program on the campus of Purdue University.

A large group of Ben Franklin Transatlantic Fellowship students standing in front of the Lafayette Urban Ministry building.

About

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Program Overview

The Benjamin Franklin Transatlantic Fellowship (BFTF) is a program of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, implemented by Purdue University. The program started in 2006 to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the birth of Benjamin Franklin, the legendary American statesman and diplomat, whose career, interests, and studies took him across the Atlantic Ocean, bringing about better understanding between Americans and Europeans.

As a diplomat and a printer, Benjamin Franklin  used the power of diplomacy and the media to increase the exchange of information between Americans and the people of other countries.  The program explores how young people consume and produce information and the importance of freedom of expression.

About the Fellowship

The program consists of four modules, each representing a component of Benjamin Franklin’s legacy:

  1. International Relations & Diplomacy Module
  2. Media & Communication Module
  3. Civic Education & Democratic Citizenship Module
  4. Service & Volunteerism Module

Each module is comprised of a set of thematic presentations, workshops, seminars, panel discussions, site visits, and other interactive activities.

“I loved the program greatly. The chance to meet all these people was life-changing. I have made amazing relationships.

Schedule

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BFTF Schedule

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For Prospective Fellows

BFTF will be held June 23-July 21, 2026 on the campus of Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana.

10 U.S. Fellows (aged 16 to 18) will join 25 international Fellows from Europe to take classes in International Diplomacy, Media and Journalism, and Civic Education. Over the course of the program, Fellows will meet with U.S. politicians, scholars, and journalists. Fellows will participate in debates, practical workshops, and seminars. They will also learn how to organize and participate in community service activities.

The Fellowship cultural program includes trips to Indianapolis, Chicago, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC. The program also includes an International Culture Night, talent show, 4th of July picnic, shows and concerts, movie nights and sporting events.

Application Information

Applications for the BFTF 2026 program are closed.

U.S. citizens 16-18 years old may apply. Citizens and residents of European countries must  apply through the U.S. Embassy in their respective country.

Send the application package electronically by March 8, 2026 to:
Dr. Anatoli Rapoport or Dr. Jeff Spanke

Or mail (postmarked by March 8,2026) to:
Anatoli Rapoport
100 N. University Street
West Lafayette, IN 47907

Staff

Anatoli Rapoport

Dr. Anatoli Rapoport

Program Director

Jeff Spanke

Dr. Jeff Spanke

Program Administrator

Jeremy Bloyd

Jeremy Bloyd

Homestay Coordinator

Asta Balkute

Dr. Asta Balkute

Administrator/Mentor

Luka Ignac

Luka Ignac

Mentor

Sarah Ryan

Sarah Ryan

Mentor

BFTF was truly a life-changing experience for me. It helped me grow both personally and intellectually, and it opened my eyes to new perspectives, cultures, and ideas.