The America’s Allies Scholarship Program (AASP), a partnership between the Afghan Future Fund (AFF) and No One Left Behind (NOLB), has awarded $105,000 in scholarships to 20 Afghan and Iraqi Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holders pursuing education and professional training across the United States.
The initiative supports education and training that can lead to employment, professional licenses or credentials. Eligible programs include professional certifications, licensing exams, vocational and trade training, community college coursework and degree programs nearing completion. Priority is given to programs with a clear, near-term path to employment or licensure.
This year’s awardees are based in nine states: Virginia, New York, California, Texas, Nebraska, Kentucky, Minnesota, Utah and Washington. They are pursuing master’s, bachelor’s and associate degrees, as well as professional certifications and licenses.
Their fields of study and training span technology, health care, education, public policy, business, skilled trades, photojournalism and theology. Specific areas include computer science, software engineering, cloud computing, nursing, public health, physician licensing, accounting, project management and HVAC.
AASP was created to support Afghan and Iraqi SIV holders, including those who assisted the United States, as they pursue education and career opportunities in their new communities. For many awardees, returning to school or obtaining U.S. credentials is an important step toward continuing careers interrupted by displacement or pursuing new professional paths.
For Saliha Hamgom, one of this year’s scholarship recipients, the award provides valuable support as she pursues a nursing degree at Bluegrass Community and Technical College in Lexington, Kentucky, while balancing work and family responsibilities.
“Receiving the AASP scholarship means a lot to me,” Saliha said. “Because it brings me one step closer to my educational goals and the future I want to build for my family.” “Balancing education, work, and family responsibilities is not always easy, but I believe that education creates opportunities for a better future.” She also hopes her experience will inspire others to continue their education and believe in their dreams.
Building on the first AASP cycle
AASP was launched in 2025 as a partnership between AFF and NOLB. The first round received approximately 800 applications and selected 21 awardees, distributing $110,000 in scholarship support.
With the addition of the new cohort, AASP has supported 41 SIV holders with $215,000 in education and training support since the program launched.
“These wartime allies have already demonstrated what they’re capable of when the stakes were highest,” said Andrew Sullivan, NOLB’s executive director. “Education programs give them the credentials to build on that resilience and contribute even more to their communities. Helping them achieve their educational goals while supporting their families is one of the most meaningful ways we can keep our promise to those who stood with us.”
The next round of AASP is expected to be announced in May 2027. Updates will be shared on the AFF and NOLB websites and social media channels. For more information, contact resettlement@nooneleft.org.