Each year the U.S. Embassy in Moscow announces competitions for participation in the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs exchange programs. The purpose of these programs is to further both educational and cultural exchanges between the United States of America and Russia.

The academic programs are intended for scientists, researchers, professionals, students and schoolchildren. The programs provide an opportunity to receive a graduate or undergraduate education in the USA. Finalists of all programs receive J-1 visas, which mandate an immediate return to Russia after finishing the programs.

Each person who successfully completes a program of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs is considered to be an alumnus or alumna.