Be in the United States for a critical moment in American politics. Experience the US midterm elections as they happen in Washington, DC and Philadelphia.

This intensive two-week study tour, from November 1st to November 14th, will immerse you in the institutions, debates, and political energy shaping the United States during and immediately after the 2026 midterm elections.

Through academic sessions, policy-focused visits, and on-the-ground engagement across Washington, DC and Philadelphia, you will explore how elections shape government, public policy, media, diplomacy, democracy, and America’s role in the world.

Developed in collaboration with the University of Southern California Capital Campus in Washington, D.C. and the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, the program offers students a rare opportunity to experience American politics at a particularly consequential moment.

Who can apply?

Designed for undergraduate and postgraduate students from the University of Sydney. Students from other universities are welcome to apply.

Applications are now open and will be assessed on a rolling basis. Students are encouraged to apply early as places are limited.

What you get

The program includes:

Exclusive guest lectures

Engage with leading experts in American politics, policy, media, and civic life, and gain deeper insight into the forces shaping the United States today.

Access to experts and institutions

Meet policymakers, diplomats, academics, media professionals, and civic leaders through immersive sessions, site visits, and discussions.

Educational visits and on-the-ground learning

Explore key political and historical sites, with activities designed to connect the election moment to the broader institutions, culture, and history of the United States.

A special reception at the Australian Embassy in Washington, D.C.

Join an exclusive Embassy event and connect with diplomats, government representatives, fellow participants, and invited guests.

Transfers and comfortable accommodation

Enjoy organised transfers and accommodation throughout the Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia components of the tour.

Daily breakfast

Start each day with breakfast included, helping you make the most of the program.

University of Sydney student travel insurance

Travel with peace of mind knowing you are covered by USYD insurance.*

Financial assistance

Students may be able to access OS-HELP, subject to the relevant eligibility criteria. University of Sydney students may also be eligible for United States Studies Centre scholarships and funding, subject to availability and eligibility requirements.

Eligibility

Led by Dr Anna Lebovic, Lecturer in American Studies, the US Midterm Elections Study Tour combines academic study with on-the-ground experience.

  • Minimum WAM: 65
  • Level: undergraduate and postgraduate
  • Mode of attendance: in person
  • Relevant subject areas: US Studies, Global Leadership, History, International Relations, International Security Studies, Media and Communications, Political Science, Social Sciences, Business.

Academic information

The study tour is worth 6 USYD credit points.

Selected postgraduate students will be enrolled in USSC6910| Special Topics in US Studies. Selected undergraduate students will be enrolled in USSC2601 | Power, Conflict and Diplomacy.

Prerequisites and enrolment

If you are applying for the undergraduate program but do not meet the prerequisites for USSC2601, you may be eligible to request an enrolment exception. More information is available here.

If USSC6910 is not currently offered as part of your postgraduate coursework degree, you will need approval from your postgraduate coordinator.

Do not enrol in USSC2601 or USSC6910 before being offered a place in the study tour. Places in the program, and enrolment in the relevant unit, will only be confirmed after a successful application.

Additional information

  • Students from other universities can apply. Cross-institutional study is considered on a case-by-case basis and requires a separate application through the cross-institutional admissions process. Click here and scroll to “Cross-Institutional Study”.
  • Students from low socio-economic backgrounds, and those who have not previously undertaken exchange or study tour opportunities, are encouraged to apply, though this is not a requirement.
  • This study tour is not suitable for first-year undergraduate students.

Timeline

Applications opened on 17 June 2026 and are assessed on a rolling basis. Students are encouraged to apply as early as possible.

Applications close on 10 August 2026, with final outcomes communicated by 17 August 2026.

USSC scholarships, which are separate from University of Sydney scholarships, will also be announced by 17 August 2026. As these are partial scholarships only and are limited in number, students should apply and plan on the basis that they may not receive one.

The remaining program fee will be due in late August 2026 (TBC).

Application tips

Where do we go?

Meet your tour guides

Important information

Students should read the full terms and conditions, eligibility requirements, fee information, and application details in the University of Sydney application database before applying.

This website provides an overview of the program, but the application database contains the full and most up-to-date administrative information. Students are responsible for reviewing this material carefully before submitting an application.

If you have any questions about the program or application process, please contact Paulo Olivares at paulo.olivares@sydney.edu.au.

* Program details are subject to final confirmation.