Sawiris Program Overview

The Sawiris Penn Scholars Exchange Program has been developed to allow for an inspirational exchange of ideas, knowledge, and culture between Penn students and students from Egyptian universities. The Program brings up to five (5) scholars from the architecture engineering and electrical engineering programs at Ain Shams University and from the Onsi Sawiris School of Business at American University in Cairo to the University to fully immerse them in the Penn experience. Selected students will study at the University of Pennsylvania for a full academic year, fully immersing themselves in the academic and student life fabric of Penn. Students leave the University armed with skills, a global outlook, and friendships to last a lifetime, making them well-prepared to help advance their communities in Egypt upon their return. The students will receive full support, funded by the NNS Foundation, for the academic year that would cover tuition and academic fees, living expenses (including housing and dining costs, insurance, and clinical fees.), transportation, and a living stipend. 

For the duration of their stay, key resources and support services will be available exclusively to the Sawiris Scholars, including: 

A dedicated Sawiris Penn Scholars Exchange Program Manager who would assist with cultural and adjustment issues, serve as a liaison to home institutions, and provide support throughout the academic year. 

A dedicated Sawiris Penn Scholars Exchange Program Faculty Advisor who will serve as a mentor, leading select extracurricular activities designed to further enhance the academic and professional development of the scholars. 

A pre-semester five-day pre-orientation program to acclimate the Sawiris Penn Scholars Exchange students to campus, the US, and academic life at Penn. 

Unique programming throughout the year which may include a curated tour of Penn Museum’s Egyptian Galleries, luncheon programs with Penn Global leaders, and day trips to Washington DC and New York City.

Integration into the Exchange at Penn program which provides a hub for support, mentoring, and activities for visiting exchange students.

A wide variety of activities and events, both on and off campus.