The Kosovo American Education Fund (KAEF) is a perpetual education fund dedicated to the economic development of Kosovo through the education of its people. KAEF supports educational programs that provide Kosovo’s future leaders with the tools they need to promote the country’s future prosperity.

The KAEF Graduate Fellowship Program offers graduate fellowships at American universities to talented Kosovars who demonstrate a strong commitment to the development of their country. KAEF fellowships are open to all eligible applicants, and are awarded through a merit-based competition. Fellows study in Master’s level programs for one or two years, obtain a degree, and participate in professional internships.

The program has awarded scholarships to 92 fellows to date, of whom 80 have returned to Kosovo to contribute their newfound knowledge toward the country’s development.

KAEF was established by USAID following the end of the Kosovo Business Finance Fund, a project that established the American Bank of Kosovo. The funds from the sale of the bank were entrusted to the endowment fund, which is managed by the American Councils for International Education. The fund is now supported by a combination of over 150 local and international businesses, organizations, and individuals.

Partner: American Councils for International Education

Geographic Target: Kosovo

Project Duration: May 2004 – May 2024       

USAID Contact: Antigona Mustafa