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• Five Colleges and Universities Competitively Selected to Host U.S. Department of State Workshops on Building Capacity for Americans to Study Abroad
• Apply by February 28 for an IDEAS Program Grant to Increase and Diversify Study Abroad at Your Institution

• Request for Quotations: 2020 Gilman and Critical Language Scholarship Workshops

• U.S. Institutions of Higher Education Win Capacity Building Program for U.S. Study Abroad Grants
• Apply to Host a Workshop for Gilman and CLS Program Advisors or Alumni by February 25
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• Foreign Government Scholarships
• Educators, Colleges & Universities

For U.S. College and University Students Are you pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree? Study abroad to enhance your education. You will gain important career skills and knowledge, and alumni of some U.S. government exchange programs even receive special hiring authorities that make it easier to pursue federal jobs. Find a program that’s right for you. Information for U.S. Undergraduate and Graduate Students

• Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program  supports U.S. undergraduate students of limited financial means to study or intern abroad. Under the Gilman Program, the John McCain International Scholarship for Children of Military Families supports U.S. undergraduate students who are children of active duty military personnel to study or intern abroad.
• Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program  provides fully funded intensive summer language institutes overseas in fifteen critical languages.
• The Congress Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX)  provides merit-based scholarships to recent vocational graduates and young professionals for a one-year professional study and training experience in their fields of interest in Germany.
• Fulbright U.S. Student Program  sends recent college graduates and early career professionals to live, study and conduct research abroad in 140 countries.
• Fulbright English Teaching Assistant Program  places recent college graduates in classrooms in 75 countries to help teach English and serve as cultural ambassadors.
• The Boren Award for International Study  is an initiative of the National Security Education Program that provides funding for U.S. undergraduate students to study less commonly taught languages in world regions critical to U.S. interests and underrepresented in study abroad.
• The Language Flagship  offers programs at 22 universities and colleges across the U.S combined with overseas study opportunities at ten Flagship Overseas Centers.
• Project GO  provides scholarships to ROTC students in three services for critical language study domestically and abroad.
• Fulbright-Hays Doctoral Dissertation Research Abroad (DDRA) Fellowship Program  provides opportunities to doctoral candidates to engage in full-time dissertation research abroad in modern foreign languages and area studies. Grants are given in all world areas except Western Europe as the program aims to encourage the study of regions and cultures that are not commonly explored.
• Foreign Language and Area Studies (FLAS) Fellowships   provide opportunities for outstanding undergraduate and graduate students to engage in area studies and world language training at schools that have established a FLAS fellowship program. FLAS provides allocations of fellowships to institutions of higher education, which then make awards directly to meritorious undergraduate students and graduate students. Students must be enrolled at and apply through a FLAS-recipient institution.  

Below are additional programs that provide funding for education and research.  While not exclusively for international programs, they do allow for study and research abroad.

• Barry Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Program provides a continuing source of highly qualified scientists, mathematicians, and engineers by awarding scholarships to college students who intend to pursue research careers in these fields.
• Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Student Scholarships are available to both undergraduate and graduate students. 
• Dr. Nancy Foster Scholarship Program recognizes outstanding scholarship and encourages independent graduate level research -- particularly by female and minority students -- in NOAA mission-related sciences of oceanography, marine biology and maritime archaeology, including all science, engineering and resource management of ocean and coastal areas.
• Ernest F. Hollings Scholarship seeks to increase undergraduate training in oceanic and atmospheric science, research, technology, and education and foster multidisciplinary training opportunities.
• Export.gov provides internship opportunities with the U.S. Commercial Service in U.S. embassies abroad.
• Cobell Scholarship is annual, non-renewable, and available to any full-time and degree-seeking American Indian or Alaska Native post-secondary student attending any nationally, regionally and industry accredited non-profit, public and private, institution while pursuing a vocational certificate or diploma, associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, professional degree or certificate.
• Greater Research Opportunities (GRO) Undergraduate Fellowships The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers fellowships for undergraduate students in environmentally related fields of study
• Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation awards merit-based scholarships to college students who plan to pursue careers in government or elsewhere in public service. Truman Scholars receive up to $30,000 for graduate or professional school, participate in leadership development activities, and have special opportunities for internships and employment with the federal government.
• Hubert Global Health Fellowship provides third- and fourth-year medical and veterinary students with public health experience in a developing country.
• National Science Foundation (NSF)   supports international research and education through a variety of programs, including fellowships, travel grants, summer institutes, workshops, and research and education projects.
• NIH Fogarty International Center supports and facilitates global health research conducted by U.S. and international investigators.  Fogarty seeks partnerships between health research institutions in the U.S. and abroad who will train the next generation of scientists to address global health needs.
• NOAA Educational Partnership Program Undergraduate Scholarship provides scholarships for two years of undergraduate study to students at Minority Serving Institutes majoring in STEM fields that directly support NOAA's mission. Participants conduct research at a NOAA facility during two paid summer internships.
• Registered Apprenticeship Program provides the opportunity for workers seeking high-skilled, high- paying jobs and for employers seeking to build a qualified workforce. In this regard, the Registered Apprenticeship system effectively meets the needs of both employers and workers. Registered Apprenticeship is highly active in traditional industries such as construction and manufacturing, but it is also instrumental in the training and development of emerging industries such as healthcare, energy, and homeland security.
• Saul T. Wilson Jr., Scholarship Program offered through the U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). Students interested in a career in veterinarian services are encouraged to apply.
• Science, Mathematics and Research for Transformation (SMART) Scholarship for Service Program is an opportunity for students pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines to receive a full scholarship and be gainfully employed upon degree completion.
• Science To Achieve Results (STAR) Supports masters and doctoral candidates in environmental studies. Students can pursue degrees in traditionally recognized environmental disciplines as well as other fields such as social anthropology, urban and regional planning, and decision sciences.
• Stokes Scholarship Program develops students for future permanent employment while they pursue a degree relevant to NGA’s mission.  The intent of the Stokes Scholarship Program is to recruit high-caliber undergraduate students who have demonstrated financial need and provide them with financial assistance to complete their undergraduate degrees.
• Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Fellowship provides undergraduate and graduate students with financial support, mentoring and professional development to prepare them academically and professionally for a career in the U.S. Department of State Foreign Service.
• Udall Undergraduate Scholarship awards scholarships to college sophomores and juniors for leadership, public service, and commitment to issues related to American Indian nations or to the environment.
• USAID is the lead U.S. Government agency that works to end extreme global poverty and enable resilient, democratic societies to realize their potential.  Funding opportunities are available to universities and research scholars.
• USDA/1994 Tribal Scholars Program provides scholarships for applicants attending 1994 Land Grant Tribal Colleges and Universities seeking careers in food, agriculture, and natural resource sciences, and/or other related disciplines.
• USDA/1890 National Scholars Program Designed to increase the number of minorities studying agriculture, food, natural resource sciences, and the related disciplines.
• William F. Helms Internship Program help protect U.S. agriculture and the environment while facilitating global trade of pest and disease-free agricultural goods.

For U.S. College and University Students

• Non-Competitive Eligibility for Federal Employment

Fund for Education Abroad

We provide scholarships and ongoing support to students with financial need who are underrepresented among the U.S. study-abroad population.

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How to Find Study Abroad Scholarships

Here are some sources of scholarships and grants that can lower the costs for U.S. college students to study abroad.

Finding Study Abroad Scholarships

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Planning study abroad scholarships early is a way for students to effectively plan for their coursework in another country.

The consensus among experts on how college students who want to study abroad should approach searching for scholarships is simple: Do it early.

Just as with coursework, finances and opportunities throughout a college career, it’s important to look for scholarships and plan out the financial implications of studying abroad as soon as possible, experts say.

“It seems crazy, but we tell students to plan for studying abroad in their first year,” says Nyoka Joseph, assistant director of student services at New York University ’s International Exchange Program.

NYU, like many colleges, doesn’t allow students to study abroad their first year on campus. However, it’s important to start exploring right away if a student intends to study internationally, Joseph says.

Types of Study Abroad Scholarships

Scholarships based on academics or personal background are available.

Academic, or merit-based, scholarships typically consider a student’s GPA, past and future coursework, past projects or research, and standardized test scores, says Nick Gozik, dean of global education and an assistant professor at Elon University in North Carolina, where 84% of students study abroad at some point in college.

“There’s also identity-based opportunities available for African American students, for LGBTQIA students, for students of certain ethnicities,” he says. “There’s opportunities for students from certain states, students in certain majors or areas of interest. Those ones really depend largely on the organization or the donor and what they've specified.”

There are also scholarships specific to a student’s country of destination .

Gozik says students often don’t realize they qualify for scholarships, and even one that's a small financial amount can make a difference.

Seeking Scholarships Aids Study Abroad Planning

Another reason to apply early for study abroad scholarships is so that students can effectively plan their college course schedule.

“Planning and applying early allows you to figure out when you can go abroad, what courses you need to take before you go so that you can map out the courses in upcoming years,” Gozik says, “and you can start saving financially in advance and have that conversation with a parent or guardian.”

This is a reason why students who study abroad tend to be good planners, says Margaret Wiedenhoeft, executive director of the Center for International Programs at Kalamazoo College in Michigan.

“It takes a lot of work to prepare to go off campus, and to make sure that it's going to be a part of your curriculum plan as a college student, and not something that is going to end up preventing you from graduating on time ,” she says.

Students also should reflect and be honest about how they budget and manage their money , Wiedenhoeft says.

“Think about what you usually spend on a weekly basis when you're on campus, and then think about how and if you're going to be able to do that when you go abroad,” she says. “Are you savvy in where you're choosing to study abroad, because there are some places where the cost of living is maybe lower than actually where you're studying on campus and so your money might go further.”

For example, Joseph says the cost for NYU students studying away in Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic in Europe, is typically cheaper than if they were on campus in the heart of New York City.

Colleges usually have internal scholarships that can be navigated with help from academic advisers and the study abroad office, experts note.

For external scholarships, go to study abroad fairs and information sessions, and do some digging in online search engines, experts recommend. Many of these types of study abroad scholarships are sponsored by independent foundations and groups.

“Students have to take a bit of ownership, because even if we provide the information on the scholarships that are available, it's impossible to tell every student every scholarship they qualify for,” Joseph says. “So we definitely recommend looking early on if you have interest in studying abroad.”

Examples of Study Abroad Scholarships

Here are nine sources of funding, mostly competitive, that can help pay for your travels to learn outside the U.S.

Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship

Joseph says she always recommends students attend information sessions for the Gilman Scholarship Program , which allocates nearly 3,000 scholarships a year.

To be eligible, recipients must be U.S. citizens receiving the federal Pell Grant.

Award amounts are up to $5,000 a semester, with the potential to earn an additional $3,000 Critical Need Language Award for students studying certain languages, and up to an additional $1,000 STEM Supplemental Award for students studying STEM abroad.

The scholarship prioritizes first-generation college students, those with a diverse background, the impact of the program and students studying STEM or a critical need language.

The deadline to apply for the scholarship is March 7, 2024.

Boren Scholarships 

Boren Scholarships are focused on language, culture and service.

Eligible candidates are undergraduates planning an overseas program in a country outside of Western Europe, Canada, Australia or New Zealand. The organization gives preference to programs based on their duration, focus on intensive study of a preferred language in a preferred country, and the applicant’s field of study.

Some of the preferred languages of study are French, Swahili, Akan/Twi, Wolof, Zulu, Hindi and Urdu. Students entering a STEM field are given priority.

The deadline to apply for a Boren Scholarship is Jan. 31, 2024, and winners will be awarded up to $10,000 a semester.

Fund for Education Abroad Scholarships

The Fund for Education Abroad has numerous scholarship opportunities for various interests and backgrounds, including LGBTQI-based awards, one specific to students studying in Vietnam or Greece and a scholarship for students enrolled in a U.S. community college .

Scholarships are up to $5,000 a semester, and the nonprofit prioritizes first-generation and minority students. Most of the scholarships have more than one winner each year.

The application deadlines are typically in September.

Tortuga Study Abroad Scholarship

Tortuga, a company that makes travel backpacks and luggage, offers $1,000 scholarships for students studying abroad. Winners of the scholarship also receive – perhaps not surprisingly – a travel backpack.

The application requires a short essay explaining what a student hopes to take away from the study abroad experience and how those lessons will be brought back home. Applicants must be undergraduates at a four-year U.S. school who have been accepted to a for-credit study abroad program.

The deadline to apply for the spring 2024 scholarship is Nov. 15, 2023, and the winner will be announced Nov. 30. Fall 2024 travelers must apply by April 15, 2024, and decisions are announced April 30.

AIFS Study Abroad Scholarships and Grants

The American Institute For Foreign Study offers several scholarships worth up to $5,000. The smallest scholarship is for $500, and deadlines vary depending on the scholarship.

While some scholarships are based generally on academic performance, others are specifically for students who are a part of underrepresented minority groups or attending historically Black colleges and universities, commonly called HBCUs .

There are several featured study abroad programs at the AIFS Global Education Center in Florence, Italy, including a summer program where students can earn up to 10 college credits; traditional fall and spring semester programs that allow students to earn up to 16 credits; and fall and spring study programs that include an internship and allow up to 12 credits.

Global Experiences Scholarships and Grants

Global Experiences, an AIFS program, has pledged $25,000 in scholarships each year "to engage a more culturally aware workforce," according to the program website.

These scholarships are for summer or semester internship terms in various global cities, such as Barcelona, Berlin, Paris, Florence, Prague, Sydney, Edinburgh and Galway, Ireland.

Several scholarships and multiple $500 grants for on-site study abroad are intended to promote diversity, equity and inclusion . Scholarships are a minimum of $200, which is for a virtual study abroad experience, and a maximum of $2,500 per semester. Application deadlines vary.

CEA CAPA Study Abroad Scholarships and Grants

CEA CAPA, an Arizona-based organization that promotes equity in study abroad opportunities, offers more than $2 million each year in scholarships, grants and affiliation programs.

Six scholarships and three grants are distributed for programs that last at least three weeks. Scholarship awards range from $100 to $5,000, and $500 flight credits are given to those who apply with a code by Nov. 17, 2023.

Scholarships, which are administered by the nonprofit Fund for Education Abroad, include those for first-generation college students, LGBTQIA+ students , students of color and more. Some applicants may also qualify for grants that help subsidize the costs of airfare, passport applications and loss of work-study income while studying abroad.

GPA requirements vary for the scholarships. Application deadlines range from Oct. 15 to May 1 for five study abroad terms: spring, late spring, summer, late summer and fall.

The Corinne Jeannine Schillings Foundation Scholarships

Named for Corinne Jeannine Schillings, a former executive assistant at the National Italian American Foundation and the CATO Institute, the foundation offers scholarships to former Girl Scouts who received a Gold Award or Silver Award and want to study abroad when they attend college.

The scholarships aim to help undergraduate women financially who are learning other cultures through study abroad for a summer, semester or entire year.

Scholarships are $1,000. Deadlines are in December and May.

Rotary Global Grant Scholarships

Rotary International offers thousands of dollars in scholarships , including grants for graduate students studying abroad specifically for one of Rotary’s causes: promoting peace, fighting disease, saving mothers and children, supporting education, growing local economies, protecting the environment or providing clean water, sanitation and hygiene.

Scholarships last from one to four years for $30,000 to $40,000, and the deadline to apply is May 1, 2024.

Reasons to Earn a Degree Overseas

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31 Travel Scholarships, Fellowships, and Grants to Fund Your Next Trip Abroad

DO YOU HAVE A worthwhile project or field of study that involves traveling? If so, consider having your travels funded through a grant, fellowship, or travel scholarship.

Begin by contemplating where you want to go and potential projects you could build around those destinations. (Or vice versa.) Always wondered how sustainable agriculture works in Guam? How about local conservation practices in Central America? Once you have a clear vision of a travel / research project, begin looking for funding possibilities that give you the most freedom to pursue your goals.

When applying, take advantage of the resources and support systems you have. Your school, present or past, will have an adviser who can help you navigate the application process.

Writing grant proposals can take a lot of time, but good advice can help focus your efforts. Your school or area may even offer their own scholarship opportunities–talk to your department or your study abroad office.

Finally, even if funding from your school or other org close to home isn’t an option, you’ll find lots of other opportunities out there to fund your travel / project.

Major Grants

These are highly sought-after, competitive post-college grants that offer a full ride for a year or two of graduate study overseas.

Marshall Scholarship fully funds 2-3 years of graduate study in the UK. Open to US students finished with or finishing college.

Rhodes Scholarship funds two years of graduate study at Oxford. Includes full tuition and expenses and living stipend.

Fulbright offers year-long fellowships to American graduating seniors, grad students, young professionals and artists for study abroad or to teach English abroad. Program requirements vary by destination.

Watson Fellowship funds one year of independent research. $25,000. Open to graduating seniors from participating, small American colleges.

Program-based funding

These include grants tied to participation in the giver’s program, and can take various forms.

Institute for International Public Policy Fellowships is a five year program with study abroad component to prepare underrepresented minority undergrads for careers in international affairs. Open to US citizens or permanent residents who apply sophomore year.

Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Fellowships multi-year program also for women and members of minorities underrepresented in foreign service. Open to US citizens to apply by Feb. of sophomore year. Foreign service commitment.

Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship is a State Department program supporting study abroad. Up to $5000 offered to enrolled students with financial need.

Rotary Ambassadorial and World Peace Scholarships fund study and language training abroad for undergraduates and masters degrees for graduate students in international studies, peace studies, and conflict resolution to be completed at one of seven Rotary Centers. Ambassadorial grants from $11000 to $24000 depending on duration of study.

Fogarty-Ellison Overseas Fellowships in Global Health and Clinical Research from the NIH funds one year of clinical research training abroad. $25,000 plus $6000 for additional travel and materials expenses. Open to graduate students in health professions.

CIEE Scholarships offers several grants to participants in CIEE’s study abroad programs. Certain grants fund study in particular regions. Essay required upon return. Must demonstrate financial need.

AIFS Scholarships offer a variety of grants covering up to full tuition and airfare for individuals in AIFS programs.

SIT Scholarships fund participation in SIT program. $500 to $5,000. Based on financial need.

Hispanic Study Abroad Scholars reduces costs of Global Semesters programs. Open to students attending member institutions of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities.

Institute for International Public Policy Fellowship is a multi-year program of summer institutes and study abroad. Funds up to 1/2 of junior year study abroad tuition. Open to underrepresented minorities.

Regional Grants

These grants are tied to study or travel in specific regions or countries of the globe.

NSEP David L. Boren Scholarship pays for undergraduate students to study in understudied areas of interest to national security. $8000 to $20000 depending on duration of study. Comes with federal government service requirement.

NSEP Boren Fellowship for graduate students. $12000 to $30000 maximum award. Federal service requirement.

Critical Language Scholarships for Intensive Summer Institutes funds study of a list of lesser-studied languages. Covers all program costs. Open to US citizens enrolled in a college or university.

The Killam Fellowships Program fund semester or academic year study in Canada. $5000/semester plus a travel allowance. Open to US or Canadian undergraduates.

George J. Mitchell Scholarship sponsors one year of graduate study at an Irish University. Funded by the US-Ireland Alliance. Includes tuition and stipend. Open to American citizens, ages 18 to 30.

BUTEX Scholarships offer $1000 for US students accepted to study at a member University of the British Universities TransAtlantic Exchange Association. Simple application due by September 1.

American-Scandinavian Foundation Awards for Study in Scandinavia offer fellowships of up to $23000 and grants of $5000 to fund study or research. Open to college graduates.

DAAD Fellowships from The German Academic Exchange offers a range of study and research grants to undergraduates and graduate students for summer or school-year study in Berlin.

Kress Travel Fellowships in the History of Art funds research in Europe towards dissertation. $3500 to $10,000. Open to American pre-doctoral students in art history

IREX Short Term Travel Grants Program Fellowships for researchers holding graduate degrees for up to eight weeks in Eurasia. Research must be broadly related to policy concerns.

Freeman Awards for Study in Asia supports study in Asia for students demonstrating financial need. $3000-$7000 based on the duration of study. Open to undergraduates with little to no experience in country of travel.

Bridging Scholarships are offered by the Association of Teachers of Japanese , to fund travel and living expenses for academic study in Japan. Grants range from $2500 to $4000.

Monbusho Scholarships available to current and graduated students between 18 and 30. Funded by the Japanese government. Short term exchange program of particular interest to current undergrad and grad students.

Huayu Enrichment Scholarship for Mandarin language study in Taiwan. Stipend of approx US$790/month. Open to overseas students who apply through their local Taiwan representative.

Halide Edip Adıvar Prize For current undergraduates who have not studied Turkey. $1000. Open to American and Canadian citizens and permanent residents.

Other funding

Phi Kappa Phi Study Abroad Grants towards study abroad. $1000. Open to all students of universities with a Phi Kappa Phi chapter.

NSF: Developing Global Scientists and Engineers offers funds for international research and study to undergrads, grad students and doctoral students in science and engineering fields. Grant

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• 10 Scholarships to Fund Your Travels Abroad

Be an ambassador for peace, master a foreign language, give back through services…and do it all in another country!

These ten scholarship opportunities can help make it happen. Although each one has its own eligibility requirements, all of them are open to U.S. citizens with disabilities.

• Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program
• Open to undergraduates
• Universal – Can be applied to most study abroad programs
• Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State
• Award/Benefits – Up to $5,000 ($8,000 for those studying a Critical Need Language)
• Critical Info – Must be Pell Grant Recipients
• Minimum Time Required Abroad – 2 weeks for community college students, 4 weeks otherwise

It’s all about diversity by awarding scholarships to students who have been traditionally underrepresented in study abroad – students with high financial need and who represent various underserved audiences, including people with disabilities – the Gilman Program is diversifying the kinds of students who study and intern abroad.

• Christianson Grant
• Critical information – Open to applicants ages 18-28
• Award/benefit – $2,500-10,000
• Minimum time required abroad – 6 months

If you’re not currently in school, you can still travel without going the traditional study abroad route. For those who want to work or volunteer overseas, the Christianson Grant has you covered! Programs may not be part of a degree requirement or for class credit.

• Critical Language Scholarship Program
• Open to U.S. undergraduates
• Open to U.S. graduates
• Award/benefits – Program costs are fully covered
• Minimum time required abroad – Summer, eight to ten weeks

The Critical Language Scholarship Program offers fully-funded language instruction and cultural enrichment experiences overseas for 13 languages in countries where the languages are widely spoken. Think Arabic, Chinese, Hindi, Russian and a number of other languages. New to critical languages? Not to worry. Several languages are offered at all levels, including those for beginners.

David L. Boren Awards

Boren scholarship.

• Universal – Can be applied towards most study abroad programs
• Award/benefits – $8,000–20,000
• Minimum Time Required Abroad – One semester, preference for a full year (8 weeks for students in select fields)
• Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Defense

Boren Fellowship

• Award/benefits – Up to $30,000
• Minimum Time Required Abroad – 12 weeks, preference for 6 months or more

Boren scholarships and fellowships offer ample financial support for adventurous types seeking less-traditional destinations abroad. Because recipients commit to a year of working in the federal government, they are also a great way to get your foot in the door for a career in the federal sector.

• DiversityAbroad.com Blogging Scholarship
• Award/benefits – $500
• Critical information – Must be accepted to an overseas program offered through a DiversityAbroad.com Partner Organization

Share your knack for story-telling by blogging your overseas adventures! Diversity Abroad strongly encourages students with disabilities, economically disadvantaged students, first-generation students, and ethnically and racially diverse students to apply.

• Foundation for Global Scholars
• Award/benefits – $2,000
• Minimum Time Required Abroad – 4 weeks

Foundation for Global Scholars awards several study abroad scholarships three times annually and designates over half of its scholarship funding to students who are underrepresented in study abroad. It’s that simple!

• Fulbright U.S. Student Program
• Open to U.S. graduating college seniors
• Award/benefits – Round-trip transportation to the host country, funding to cover room and board, health benefits
• Minimum Time Required Abroad – Varies, generally one academic year

Chase your passions on the Fulbright U.S. Student Program, whether they involve international graduate study, advanced research, or English teaching assistantships worldwide. With approximately 1,900 grants awarded annually and 140 countries to choose from, it is the largest U.S. exchange program around — and one of the most prestigious.

• Fund for Education Abroad
• Award/benefits – Up to $10,000

The Fund for Education Abroad scholarships have very few requirements, so why not apply? In addition to awarding general scholarships up to $10,000 towards four or more weeks abroad, FEA also offers dedicated scholarships for students who identify as LGBTQI or who live in certain regions of the United States.

• Rotary Peace Fellowship
• Open to graduates
• Award/benefits – Program costs are fully covered (tuition and fees, room and board, round-trip transportation, and all internship and field-study expenses)
• Minimum Time Required Abroad – 15–24 months

Give peace–and study abroad—a chance! Each year, Rotary International selects up to 100 individuals from around the world to receive fully-funded master’s degrees at select institutions in Australia, England, Japan, or Sweden. Fellows earn their degrees in peace studies, conflict resolution, or related fields.

• Watson Fellowship
• Open to recent graduates – Apply in your senior year of college
• Critical information – Must attend and be nominated by one of 40 partner colleges
• Minimum Time Required Abroad – 1 year
• Award/benefits – $30,000

The Watson Fellowship challenges students to engage in their deepest interests on a world scale. To do this, Watson Fellowships provide grants for one year of independent study in one or several countries outside the United States just after graduation. All majors and fields of inquiry are eligible.

Where Else to Look for Funding

• The study abroad office at your school. It’s a no-brainer! Or faculty who lead overseas programs in your academic department.
• Third-party providers like AIFS Study Abroad, CEA Study Abroad, CIEE Study Abroad, IES Abroad, SIT Study Abroad, and others sometimes offer fee waivers or reductions on their overseas programs for qualifying students. Find them at StudyAbroad.com and GoAbroad.com online databases.
• Many scholarships fund study abroad in specific destinations, such as those through the US-Japan Bridging Foundation, German Academic Exchange Service, and others.
• Almost any kind of scholarship can be a study abroad scholarship! Do you already receive scholarships and funding through your school, the government, foundations, or private organizations? Check with the sponsor to find out whether and how that money can be used for study abroad.

Did you know: Vocational Rehabilitation (VR), Social Security funds (SSI and SSDI), and the GI Bill (for military veterans) can sometimes be applied towards study abroad expenses or disability-related expenses while abroad?

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Related Links:

• Study Abroad Funding
• Boren Scholarship and Fellowship
• Back to Our Work

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Benjamin a. gilman international scholarship.

Alexis Reed

“It’s important for more Black students to study abroad so that global citizens can see that we aren’t America’s second class citizens. We’re talented, intelligent, and loving people and we do everything in our own style. Our presence alone helps diminish stereotypes. Additionally, I believe it’s important for us to go abroad so that other global citizens learn about us and increase their awareness around the complexities of our lived experiences and about the African diaspora.”

Ishmael Williams

“Studying abroad was important for me because I knew how expansive and diverse the world was. Even when I was younger, I dreamt of traveling to distant lands. The advice I would give Black students who are thinking about studying abroad would be to do it! Our faces, smiles, and overall presence need to be seen in other countries.”

Kofi Asante Asamoah

“Advice that I would give to Black students seeking to study abroad is to not feel afraid in embracing your African heritage. The American experience encompasses a multitude of global cultures, within a single country. You can use studying abroad to further connect with your heritage and exchange ideas to further the development of both Black communities in the U.S. and Black communities across the globe. It is very American of you to embrace your inherently rich cultural identity and to use it to benefit the world.”

Nyamal Gatluak

“My identity definitely impacted my study abroad experience in South Korea. I stood out no matter where I went, which was sometimes uncomfortable – but it wasn’t always a negative thing. Because of who I was, I was able to have interesting conversations with people about where I’m from, introduce people to my hometown of Des Moines, Iowa and show how Americans come from everywhere and look and speak differently.”

Paradise Gladstone

“My experience has been interesting because as much as I have struggled, I don’t necessarily feel wrong being here, but I think I am figuring out how to validate my identity while abroad without the support of a community and it’s difficult. Part of this is since when I introduce myself as Native American most people don’t know what that is or what it means and the idea of being indigenous doesn’t mean anything in the conversations I have had here. This paired with my altering my practices and traditions makes my time here more difficult than a non-Indigenous person, but I think that everything I am learning now is so valuable to who I am as a person that I am okay with being uncomfortable if it means that I am growing.”

Chelsea Hanway

“My study abroad experience was through a faculty-led program on peace negotiations in Northern Ireland. As an indigenous person, I came in with the history of knowing how peace negotiations have played out in America with my people among other tribes in the past. This affected the way I view peace negotiations in general and made me more curious about how the topic affected real people who live in Belfast rather than just what the government claims it is doing. It changed the way I related to my identity in that I learned about the colonization that took place in Ireland and made me feel as though my people’s history is not the only one that has been disregarded and written out of history as many people do not learn this about Irish history.”

Nathaniel Sandoval

“My interning abroad experience affected my identity by introducing me to another Hispanic culture. Also, my study abroad experience increased my desire to learn more about other Latin American countries and immerse myself in their cultures. Overall, my interning abroad experience opened the door to pursuing more opportunities abroad.”

Stephan Brown

“Through the Gilman Scholarship, I was able to experience the world beyond my textbooks and create connections that will last me a lifetime. Not only did it change my life, but it helped me become a Global Citizen.”

Morgan Kennedy

“The Gilman Program empowers young people from diverse backgrounds and helps them take an important step towards a lifetime of learning, curiosity, and connection beyond borders. Coming from a rural farming family, the rare and special opportunity to study abroad has fundamentally shaped who I am today, and who I strive to be. I am proud to be a Gilman alumna, and celebrate its success over the past 20 years in supporting the dreams of young Americans.”

Devin Sommer

“Some lessons can’t be taught in classrooms or textbooks, and their relevance impossible to measure on a test. Studying abroad provided depth and context to my education that I could not have learned any other way. The Gilman Scholarship is an amazing resource that I hope every student learns about and takes advantage of.”

Angwara Sae-Hoon

“The Gilman Scholarship Program shaped my desire to help create stories that spark curiosity, celebrate diverse cultures, and observe our shared humanity.”

Benjamin Percival

“The Gilman Program opens doors to opportunities you could never imagine. I never expected my semester in Japan would lead me to compete in judo at the Tokyo Olympics. Studying abroad is a challenge. You may be immersed in a totally different culture, as I was, but you will make new friends, try new things, acquire new tastes and discover that underneath it all, we are all the same, members of one very large family. You will be joining a network helping to create a world of global citizens that is founded on friendship and diversity.”

Scott Schenkelberg

“Through my education in France, I was able to learn about countless LGBTQ+ individuals throughout history and their impact on the world. The accepting and open culture of Europe also helped to show me that it’s okay to be me. I think that my study abroad experience helped me to fully embrace my LGBTQ+ identity and opened the doors for me to live authentically.”

Elisabet García

“As a first-gen, low-income student who is a queer multicultura Latina, it was important for me to study abroad in order to explore the complexities of my unique identities. Before studying abroad, I didn’t proudly embrace anything about who I was – especially my queerness. It was this opportunity that allowed me to truly know myself and confidently express pride in all of my complexities.”

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Recent blog, 2023 gilman alumni changemaker grant recipients announced.

December 14, 2023 – The Gilman Program is pleased to announce the inaugural recipients of the Gilman Changemaker Award. Funded by IIE’s Board of Trustees, recipients of the Changemaker Award received grants of up to $10,000. These small grants enable Gilman alumni…  READ MORE →

Award Notifications Issued for Gilman Program October 2023 Deadline

December 6, 2023 – The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) announced that it has awarded the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship to approximately 1,700 American undergraduate students from all 50 states, the District of…  READ MORE →

Award Notifications Issued for Gilman Program October 2022 Deadline

December 8, 2022 – The U.S. Department of State’s Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program awarded nearly 1,500 outstanding and diverse U.S. undergraduate students with scholarships to participate in study abroad programs in more than 80 countries worldwide. The recipients…  READ MORE →

Embracing the Unexpected

Hi there! I’m Zena Jeffers and I received the Gilman in 2016 while studying political science and international management at the illustrious NC A&T State University. My country of choice was a small island called Cyprus where I met with…  READ MORE →

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Scholarships for U.S. undergraduate students to study & intern abroad. This is an @ECAatState program. Terms of Use: https://t.co/Zz1yiMq6np

Our exceptional 🇺🇸U.S. Gilman Scholars shared their reflections from their recent 🇺🇳UN Study Tour in Rome. 👉🏼From eye-opening visits to @FAO , @WFP , and @IFAD to profound takeaways and enlightening perspectives, our visiting students learned about the consequential work of the…

The 2024 Gilman Alumni Ambassador Program application is now open! The deadline to apply is April 29 at 11:59pm PT. Apply here to be an Alumni Ambassador: https://brnw.ch/21wIpFH Learn more at our Application Q&A Webinar: https://brnw.ch/21wIpFF

"The most important thing I learned during my study abroad experience is that being a woman can mean something different to everyone." - Madison Watts, Kyrgyzstan 2022 @ecaatstate #exchangeourworld

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12 Programs that Offer First Gen & Minority Study Abroad Scholarships

Megan Lee is an international educator, traveler, writer, & SEO. After leading study abroad p...

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Not a traditional study abroad student? No thang.

On the bright side, a handful of study abroad programs are actually ‘putting their money where their mouth is’—doing more than offering scholarships for overseas study to their general program participants. 

These organizations likewise give away free money for study abroad to minority participants, as well as to those who are the first time college student in their family, through special scholarships. 

You know what this means? Studying abroad is no longer just the young affluent student’s game.

Check out these 12 programs that offer first gen and minority study abroad scholarships through the Fund for Education Abroad’s (FEA’s) Access Partner Program . Read on and get the deets on first generation study abroad scholarships // other financial awards for underrepresented students helping to level the playing field of study abroad!

12 programs increasing student mobility through study abroad scholarships

1. CAPA The Global Education Network

CAPA knows a thing or two about study abroad—they’ve been around since 1972! This org has a breadth of opportunities on offer, including semester, summer, and short term study and intern abroad programs in seven powerhouse global cities: Barcelona, Buenos Aires, Dublin, Florence, London, Shanghai, and Sydney. Another thing that makes CAPA great? They award $1.5 million dollars each year in study abroad grants and scholarships. Apply now for their Diversity Advocate Grant ($1000 per semester), one of their summer minority study abroad scholarships for attendees of HBCUs ($500), or any of their needs-based scholarships (these range from $500 to a whopping $5000!). Get ready to use that flying dollar bill emoji!

• Award: Multiple
• Amount: Varies
• More CAPA Study Abroad scholarship info

2. CET Academic Programs

CET Academic Programs serves up their international experiences a little differently with an ultra-high emphasis on academic excellence. Language is a huge emphasis of every program—whether Hindi in India or Mandarin in China—and you can expect to complete your very own Directed Field Study course while abroad (your passions on paper!). This means you get a dialed-in educational experience on top of your everyday adventures—no slacking off here. All students are automatically given a scholarship application upon turning in their program application, and awards range from $250-$2000 for high school and pre-college students and $500-$1500 for college students.

• Award: General scholarships
• Amount: $250-$2000

3. AIFS Study Abroad

The American Institute for Study Abroad (AIFS) runs study, volunteer, intern, and gap year programs in 22 different destinations around the globe (including multi-destination program offerings, too!). AIFS scholarships span support for Hispanic students (HACU-AIFS scholarship details here ), low-income students committed to social justice (info on the John S. Linakis Scholarship here ), and more. They even work with the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education (NAFEO) to offer financial study abroad support to black students at HBCUs and PBIs . We’re just scratching the surface—AIFS scholarships are good as gold. 

• More info on AIFS Scholarships

4. FIE: Foundation for International Education

If studying abroad through a nonprofit is more your style, then look no further than the Foundation for International Education (FIE)—this London-based educational organization sends undergraduate students abroad to London, England; Dublin, Ireland; and Amman, Jordan. They give away over $140,000 in scholarships each year, so you best submit your applications for study abroad scholarships for fall 2019—or next summer—stat! Different locations and program lengths open up different scholarship opportunities; be sure to cross check your program eligibility with their minority and first gen scholarships for study abroad. 

• Award: Generation Study Abroad Scholarship
• Amount: $3000 for a semester
• More info on FIE scholarships

5. The Institute for Study Abroad (IFSA-Butler)

Butler University (Go Bulldogs!) has been home to the Institute for Study Abroad (IFSA-Butler) for thirty years. Also a nonprofit, IFSA offers programs in 19 different countries across Latin America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania. Bonus: Many of their programs offer “guaranteed scholarships” in exchange for active feedback and creative reflection projects. That means basically double the access to scholarships for overseas study! Beyond their scholarship partnership with FEA, IFSA offers achievement-based first time college student grants of up to $2500—including airfare from STA Travel. Awesome!

• Award: First Generation College Student Scholarship
• Amount: Up to $2,500
• More info on IFSA-Butler minority study abroad scholarships

6. The Intern Group

Want your study abroad experience to have a heavy emphasis on professional development? Then get ready to rock your resume through programs with The Intern Group! This organization has been connecting minority and first generation students with meaningful internship placements in 15 major cities around the world since 2011. But you want to know what makes The Intern Group really, really great? They offer full scholarships to study abroad! If you have your heart set on Colombia and don’t want to pay a penny to get there, hop on this opportunity ASAP.

• More info on The Intern Group’s accessibility scholarships

7. School for Field Studies (SFS)

Do you want to get up close and personal with different ecosystems around the planet? Do you want to study curious creatures, identify endemic plant species, or bounce ideas about slowing global warming in community with other tree-hugging-students abroad? Then consider signing up for one of the School for Field Studies’ (SFS) environmental study abroad programs! Hands-on doesn’t even begin to cover the immersive experience that awaits. And, thanks to their many needs-based scholarships, like the Roy A. Hunt Foundation award and the McKee Scholarship , your wallet won’t whimper as you sign the dotted line, either.

• More School for Field Studies' first gen study abroad scholarship info

8. SIT Study Abroad

With SIT Study Abroad, even graduate students interested in study abroad are welcome to apply for a variety of first gen and minority study abroad scholarships! SIT awarded 1.6 million dollars in financial aid to its participants in this year alone. Beyond Pell Grant matches (cha-ching!), SIT also offers study abroad scholarships specifically for Hispanic-serving institution attendees, HBCU attendees, and for students studying the Middle East or Islamic Studies. If you can demonstrate financial need, there's an SIT Fund scholarship for you. It’s exciting to see how SIT is helping equalize opportunities for a variety of students through its minority study abroad scholarships!

• More info on SIT minority study abroad scholarships

9. University of Auckland

Auckland might not be at the top of your “must-see cities bucket list,” but it really ought to be. The laid-back, waterside vibe of Lisbon marries cosmopolitan Melbourne in this world-class city. But don’t get us wrong: There’s plenty of nature to go around. A quick 360° turn and you’ll set your sights on volcanoes, craters, and oceans (not to mention hip coffee shops, the tallest tower in the southern hemisphere, and throngs of kiwis to boot). How’s THAT for student-life balance!? Directly-enroll at the University of Auckland to take advanced courses in a variety of subjects—all alongside fellow international students and local students alike. 

• More info on study abroad scholarships from the University of Auckland

10. University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC)

This might sound unbelievable, but you better believe it, baby—USAC offers over 2 million (yes, 2 million!) dollars in scholarships and discounts annually to help more students study abroad. Wow! While there are dozens of awards to apply to, we’re especially pleased to see the Diversity Excellence Scholarship available to minorities who want to study abroad. The award ranges from $500-$1000 and is available for programs year-round (perfect for those on the hunt for study abroad scholarships summer 2019, fall 2019, or—gasp—spring 2020!). Their handy list of scholarships will also help put you on the right track to a fully funded experience abroad.

• Award: Diversity Excellence Scholarship
• Amount: $500-$1000
• More USAC first gen study abroad scholarship info

Students who study abroad through DIS will be glad to know that over 50% of participants receive some kind of financial assistance from the organization. In addition to merit-based and financial need-based scholarship funds, DIS offers a Diversity Scholarship intended to support students who come from underrepresented backgrounds. Students with disabilities, LGBT community members, and those with unique ethnic, racial, or socioeconomic backgrounds are all encouraged to apply.

• Award : Merit-based, need-based, Diversity Scholarship
• Amount : $250-$1000
• More info on DIS Diversity Scholarship

12. American University in Cairo

American University in Cairo (AUC) offers more than 90 different scholarships to students thanks to outside donors. There are many unique scholarship and fellowship opportunities for underrepresented students to apply to, including for those who are refugees. The AUC Centennial Scholarship Fund, AUC Scholarship for Refugees, and the Cultural Scholarship would all be of interest to students from minority communities or unique backgrounds, and AUC scholarship options don’t end there! Awards and deadlines vary.

• Award : Multiple
• Amount : Small cash awards to full or partial semester
• More info on American University in Cairo scholarships

Bonus: More scholarships are available from FEA to participants of these programs

Find scholarships to help Hispanic students study abroad!

Any applicants to the above programs are likewise eligible to apply for Access Partner scholarships through FEA. Awards can range from up to $1,250 for summer programs, up to $5,000 for semester programs, and up to $10,000 for academic year programs. FEA also offers a variety of general and dedicated scholarships— you can check them out here !

This is yet another enticing opportunity to afford your study abroad trip. No more aims of figuring out “how to study abroad without money.” The scholarships and opportunities are out there. All that’s missing is your ability to proactively apply, stay organized (those deadlines can come in a jiffy!), and write the words that win .

Here are more scholarship resources to get you further down this rabbit hole (but hey, this is a pretty exciting and productive break from your homework, right?!):

• Our 5 Favorite African American Study Abroad Scholarships
• 5 Study Abroad Scholarships for Underrepresented Students
• 7 Study Abroad Scholarships for Hispanic Students
• 5 Awesome Asian American Grants & Scholarships to Study Abroad

Be sure to also check out our ebook library, including titles like The Complete Guide to Study Abroad Scholarships and The First Generation Students’ Study Abroad Guide . 

[ 45 Grants and Scholarships for Study Abroad Around the World ]

With the help of first gen & minority study abroad scholarships, you’ll be traveling in no time.

Stride towards your future with your best foot forward. This is happening!

Thanks to these forward-thinking study abroad programs who willingly—and tangibly—support the financial needs of underrepresented students, the landscape of participants in study abroad is shifting. Study abroad is no longer a question of if you can pay for it; it’s now a question of how you’re going to pay for it. Armed with a handful of first gen and minority study abroad scholarships, some savings (perhaps from #PAID for in no time.

Browse More Travel Scholarships

This article was written with support from the Fund for Education Abroad (FEA)’s Access Partner Program. FEA’s Access Partners join in the shared commitment to increase the number of underrepresented American college students study practices in international education, and actively engage in FEA’s mission . They are helping to make life-changing, international experiences accessible to all by supporting minority and first-generation college students.

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The IDEAS Program is designed to increase and broaden American student mobility in support of U.S. foreign policy goals. It is imperative that our next generation of leaders – American students of all backgrounds – engage internationally to foster mutual understanding and develop critical skills in support of U.S. national security and economic competitiveness. The program expands the institutional capacity of U.S. colleges and universities to broaden, expand, and enhance study abroad for U.S. students through IDEAS grants and capacity building initiatives for the wider U.S. study abroad community.

The IDEAS grant competition assists U.S. colleges and universities in creating and/or expanding their study abroad programming in support of U.S. foreign policy goals through the issuance of $35,000 grants. Each year, U.S. colleges and universities are invited to submit applications for projects to create, expand, and/or enhance outbound study abroad programs and/or resources that align with U.S. foreign policy goals. The public phase of the 2024 competition is now closed. More details can be found in the Grant Competition section of this website. For examples of how grant funding has been used, review the 2019 IDEAS Grant Competition Impact Highlights and Grantee Profiles.

The IDEAS Program also offers U.S. colleges and universities opportunities to participate in a series of study abroad capacity building activities, both virtual and in-person, to help create, expand, or diversify their study abroad programs. See here for more details and registration links for upcoming capacity building events and trainings.

The IDEAS grant competition and capacity building initiatives are open to all accredited U.S. colleges and universities. The program seeks to engage the full diversity of U.S. higher education, including community colleges and Minority Serving Institutions.

The IDEAS Program is a program of the U.S. Department of State with funding provided by the U.S. Government and supported in its implementation by World Learning.

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Marietta College's top incoming first-year students eligible for $15,000 study abroad grant

Marietta College has announced a new $15,000 study abroad grant program for Fall 2024 first-year students with a 4.0 GPA or higher. The generous funding, provided by the Ronald ’72 and Simin Shelton Rinard International Travel Grants Program, aims to make international education accessible to the College’s highest-achieving students.

“We are thrilled to be able to offer this level of support to our students,” said Heidi Terry ’96, Marietta College’s Vice President for Enrollment Management. “This is another value proposition with a Marietta College education. We have some high academic achievers who will be enrolling this fall, and they can already start making plans for when and where they would like to study abroad.”

Since the Rinard program was established in 2022, over a dozen Marietta students have already utilized the grants to study around the world. Recipients have pursued a wide range of international experiences, from law courses at the University of Cambridge to coaching basketball in Australia to conducting environmental research in Singapore. Fall 2024 represents the first time this award will be offered to a wider audience of high-achieving first-year students.

“Exposing students to diverse cultures and global perspectives is essential to their development as adaptable, culturally aware leaders,” said Chris Scheppner, Director of Admission. “Studying abroad is a transformative experience, and we want to ensure that financial barriers don’t prevent our top students from taking advantage of these life-changing opportunities.”

Scheppner added that Christy Burke, Director of Education Abroad, works closely with students to identify the ideal international program to complement their academic interests and goals. To learn more about this exciting opportunity, incoming first-year Marietta students should contact Burke at [email protected].

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Student finance application for Travel Grant

Travel expenses forms for both academic years 2024 to 2025 and 2023 to 2024.

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Travel Abroad Expenses form for 2024 to 2025

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Use the travel expenses form for the academic year you studied abroad.

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The Advantages of Short-Term Study Abroad Programs

Study abroad experiences allow students to cultivate their unique artistic identities. In these programs, students travel, learn, and work together with their classmates in a supportive environment, helping aspiring storytellers better understand and appreciate different cultures while earning academic credit. 

Study abroad programs can last a month, a semester, or even a year. For students who don’t want to spend that much time away from home, there are plenty of options for short-term study abroad programs . While longer study abroad programs have benefits, there are several key advantages to opting for a shorter program, including: 

A lesser time commitment and cost

Shorter study abroad programs are a great fit for students with additional obligations during the summer or school year. This flexibility allows students to experience studying abroad without committing to an entire semester or year away from home. Additionally, these programs come with lower overall costs for tuition, housing, and living expenses. 

Short-term study abroad programs allow students on a budget to enjoy living in top cities for film, media, and entertainment. At NYFA, these include programs at our NYFA Los Angeles, New York, Miami, and Florence campuses , as well as our satellite locations.  

Ease of integration 

Some students may find the idea of studying abroad for an entire semester or year daunting. A less overwhelming program allows students to dip their toes into the experience without committing to a longer period. This can be a great way for students to determine if it’s something they would like to pursue further in the future.

A shorter program, such as a 4 or 6-week program in Filmmaking or Acting for Film can be a good way to test out the experience. NYFA has short-term study abroad programs in Filmmaking and Acting for Film at our NYFA’s New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Florence, and Australia, as well as our satellite locations in Harvard, Paris, and Beijing.*

*Not all programs may be available at all campuses.

Flexibility

Short-term programs can offer more flexibility in timing and course selection. At NYFA, for example, students can choose from program lengths and start dates. This allows them to tailor their study abroad experience to fit their schedule and academic interests. NYFA’s course offerings include Acting for Film and Filmmaking programs in 1-week, 3-week, 4-week, 6-week, and 8-week durations. Degree-seeking students can earn credit in any of these programs . 

Students who choose shorter study abroad programs can also participate in multiple programs during their academic careers. Summer programs, workshops during the school year, and classes held over winter break and spring break allow them to experience life abroad and stay on track with their academic goals.

The Advantages of Studying Abroad 

In addition to short-term programs, NYFA also offers semester-long programs. In our experience, these programs offer the same benefits as our shorter study abroad programs, including: 

Hands-on projects

NYFA’s project-centered programs allow students to build lasting creative and technical skills in visual and narrative storytelling. For instance, our 8-week filmmaking workshop program includes hands-on film projects such as Mise en Scène, Continuity, Montage, Subtext, and a final film. Throughout this process, students delve into the intricacies of scriptwriting, directing, cinematography, lighting, filming, editing, and production. 

Personal growth

Living and studying in a foreign country can be a transformative experience that fosters personal growth, independence, cultural understanding, and creative expertise. For instance, NYFA’s collaborative initiative with the Beijing Film Academy (BFA) brought aspiring visual storytellers from China to study filmmaking at our Los Angeles campus. 

These learning opportunities provide students the chance to develop resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving skills as they navigate unfamiliar environments and overcome challenges.

Networking opportunities

Short-term study abroad programs provide students with opportunities to network and build relationships with peers, faculty, and professionals from around the world. These connections with faculty members and their classmates can be valuable for future academic and creative endeavors.

Resume/CV enhancement

Participation in a short-term study abroad program demonstrates to future employers or academic institutions that a student is adaptable, culturally aware, and capable of stepping outside their comfort zone. It can enhance a student’s resume/CV and set them apart from their peers.

Study Abroad at NYFA

Studying abroad, even for a short period, often leads to lifelong memories and experiences that students cherish for years to come. Exploring new places, trying new foods, and making friends from different backgrounds create lasting impressions and stories to share. NYFA offers study abroad programs available at our United States campuses, including New York, Los Angeles, and Miami, as well as NYFA Florence and NYFA Australia campuses, and satellite locations in Paris, Beijing, and Greater China. 

Through our partnership with international and national colleges and universities, non-NYFA students who take an NYFA study abroad program may be eligible to transfer their credits for short-term or semester-length studies.

Ready to explore the study abroad opportunities at NYFA? Learn more and apply to short-term study abroad today! Please note eligibility and application requirements on our Study Abroad page . 

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Just yesterday my student successfully defended her honors thesis on environmentalism around Lake Baikal, a project that would not have been possible without the fieldwork that she conducted on her SRAS study abroad program in Irkutsk. I hope to see more such projects in the future and will keep directing students to SRAS programs!

At Stetson, we’ve used SRAS to arrange all of our student study abroad trips for the past five or six years. During that time we’ve sent dozens of students on summer- and semester-long programs in Moscow, St Petersburg, Nizhny Novgorod and Irkutsk. In every interaction I’ve had with them, SRAS has been prompt, reliable, knowledgable, courteous and quick to lend a hand when needed.

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Babson Awarded IIE Passport Grant to Enable More First-Gen Students to Study Abroad 

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Babson College has been selected by the Institute of International Education (IIE) to receive an IIE American Passport Project grant that will enable up to 25 Babson students to obtain their first U.S. passport and open the pathway to study abroad.  

Babson will use the grant to extend education abroad opportunities to these additional Babson students. 

“We are excited to provide support to first-generation students embarking on their journey at Babson during the spring and fall semesters of 2024,” said Lorien Romito , senior director of International Education. “We will align our efforts of supporting students to get their first passport with informing them of Babson’s TARCO Global Learning Fund, an endowed fund to reduce barriers for students to study abroad.”

Babson’s Global Learning Fund grants, through philanthropic support from alumni, provide access to global experiential learning opportunities through service immersion programs. The goal of this Babson program and the goal of the American Passport Project grant is to transform individuals, communities, and society through an international education experience. 

Babson continually earns top rankings for its extensive  international education programs . IIE ranked Babson No. 1 among similar specialty-focused institutions for the number of education abroad students during the 2021–2022 school year. Babson also ranked first for the number of education abroad students on mid-length duration programs in the 2021–2022. 

Babson, the longtime global leader in entrepreneurship education , also was ranked No. 22 for Best International MBA Program this week by U.S. News & World Report .  

Now, in its fourth year, IIE American Passport Project awarded grants to 51 institutions, the largest cohort to date. The Passport Project is a key program under the IIE Center for Access and Equity , and represents the center’s commitment to creating access to international education opportunities and enabling equity by removing a financial barrier, thereby increasing the diversity and inclusion of students studying abroad.  

The program prioritizes students early in their higher education experience to allow them ample time to go through the passport application and study abroad planning process with advising and support from the awarded institutions. Through the IIE American Passport Project, IIE aims to grant 10,000 U.S. students their passports by the end of this decade.  

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BCTC Selected to Receive the IIE American Passport Project Grant to Support Underrepresented Students to Study Abroad

Published on Apr 11, 2024

A key program under the IIE Center for Access and Equity , the IIE American Passport Project represents IIE’s commitment to creating access to international education opportunities and enabling equity by removing a financial barrier, thereby increasing the diversity and inclusion of students studying abroad. The program prioritizes students early in their higher education experience to allow ample time to go through the passport application and study abroad planning process with advising and support from the awarded institutions. Through the IIE American Passport Project, IIE aims to grant 10,000 U.S. students their passports by the end of this decade. 

The IIE American Passport Project seeks to reach diverse student populations and institutions that serve students who identify within demographics underrepresented in U.S. study abroad or those who often do not obtain a U.S. passport. To date, the program has supported 176 higher education institutions in forty-one states since its inception in 2021. In this fourth cohort, 41% of the institutions represent racial/ethnic minority-serving populations – HBCUs, HSIs, AANAPISIs, and MSIs – or are community colleges. Many of the awarded institutions are focusing on these priority demographics for their respective campuses: first-generation college students, racial/ethnic minorities, students with demonstrated financial need, and students who have never traveled abroad. 

“BCTC was able to create a solid foundation for study abroad by sending over 70 students on innovative international study experiences funded by Innovative Scholarship Pilot supported by the Kentucky state legislature,” said Erin Howard, Associate Dean for Global Learning. “These efforts provided hands on technical and general educational courses focused on building global job skills and exposing students to innovation in a variety of fields abroad. To continue global education efforts, BCTC Global Learning and The Student Success Hub are partnering to include study abroad information during orientation to educate all incoming students. Additionally, a study abroad fair will be held during welcome week this fall followed by a series of workshops focused on helping students apply for funding and effectively plan for their experiences set for Summer 2024 or next academic year 2024-2025,” said Howard. 

“This is a wonderful opportunity for BCTC students to obtain U.S. passports for studying abroad, said Dr. Greg Feeney, BCTC President/CEO. “We are honored to be selected for this project which will help alleviate the financial burden that some students face. Our goal is to enhance our culture of access and success. Grants such as the IIE American Passport Project, cultivate an inclusive learning community and provide support for global experiences. This will be life changing,” said Feeney.

The Institute of International Education (IIE) is the leader in designing and implementing international education strategies and program services. They work with governments, policymakers, educators, and employers across the globe to prepare students and professionals for the global workforce and equip them to solve the increasingly complex challenges facing our interconnected world. With support from donors, they also create initiatives that assist students, scholars, and artists whose lives and work are threatened; expand teaching and learning across cultures; and provide opportunities to underserved populations. A not-for-profit organization founded in 1919, IIE has a network of sixteen offices and affiliates worldwide and over 1,600 higher education partners.

In their work around the world, IIE’s global offices and experienced staff have developed significant expertise, capabilities, and best practices in a set of core areas. Their cutting-edge approaches developed in these fields are formalized in a set of Centers of Excellence : IIE’s Center for International Partnerships and IIE’s Center for Access and Equity. IIE’s Center for Access and Equity aims to advance accessible programming and equitable practices in community building that enrich and expand international education, exchange, and opportunity for all.

The IIENetwork is IIE’s global membership association supporting the strategic advancement of international education. Through the IIENetwork, IIE shares decades of experience and expertise, generates resources, and leverages knowledge and practices with members who are working to strategize and actualize international education efforts, including building international and academic partnerships, recruiting international students, and advocating for study abroad and student mobility.

For more information, contact:

• IIE: [email protected]
• Erin Howard at [email protected]

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• May 27, 2017 | Home and Abroad with RSL in Bishkek and Irkutsk
• May 17, 2014 | 10 Differences Between Moscow and Saint Petersburg

Moscow Vs. St. Petersburg - which to chose?

10 Differences Between Moscow and Saint Petersburg

Published: May 17, 2014

I recently returned from a trip to Moscow, included as part of my study abroad program in St. Petersburg , and have been inspired to write a comparison of Russia’s two biggest cities! As a disclaimer, I have visited Moscow twice, for a total of 6 days and visited St. Petersburg 4 times, (and it is where I currently live) for a total of 6 months. Clearly, I have had more time to form an opinion of St. Petersburg, but I believe that from my experiences, along with input I’ve gathered from people who live, work, and study in both cities, I have managed to come to a balanced conclusion.

Many people opined that Moscow is flashier than Petersburg, and when it comes to going out on the town, I agree. For everyday street wear, though, I saw a big difference in women’s attire. In Moscow you are much more likely to see jeans, whereas in Petersburg skirts and tights are more common. Moscow women more frequently wear tennis shoes (including the high-heel version) and Petersburg women are almost always in heels – from the women walking into the ritzy bridal salon on Nevsky to the woman working behind the counter at the post office. In this respect, Petersburg is more posh to Moscow’s shock-and-awe glitz and trend following.

*In general, Russian women dress up much more than their American counterparts. Every occasion outside the home from grocery shopping to picking the kids up from school calls for a carefully crafted look from head to toe. Russians are not at all lazy dressers and most wouldn’t be caught dead in public in sweatpants or without makeup.

Architecture

This is a big factor that anyone would notice! Saint Petersburg is chock full of palaces, classical architecture, and pastel colors. While both cities are full of less-than-appealing Soviet concrete apartment blocks, Moscow features more Soviet architecture as focal points (such as the Seven Sisters). Both cities have many gorgeous cathedrals, but Moscow is more dominated by the “typical” onion-dome look. Saint Petersburg also does not have as much modern architecture as in Moscow, whose financial district is a chunk of glassy skyscrapers, the likes of which are not to be found in the Venice of the North. Moscow’s former mayor, Luzhkov, had a particular liking for modern architecture and from about 1990-2010, there was no solid policy on what to build where and developers ran wild, helping create the eclectic Moscow of today. St. Petersburg has always been more homogeneous and better preserved.

In a similar vein to architecture, city layout is different between the two cities. This one is pretty easy to spot with just a map. Moscow, as is common with medieval cities that used to be confined by city walls, is dominated by rings and, particularly in the center, by narrow, winding streets. Saint Petersburg, which was purposefully designed from scratch after the advent of civil engineering, has a more grid-like pattern, heavily incorporating the rivers and canals that Peter the Great intended his subjects to use as their primary mode of transportation. Moscow feels more open, and there are more vantage points to the city (mainly in the center), where in Petersburg it’s easy to feel slightly boxed in by the long rows of imperial facades. Moscow is more confusing for a newcomer, however, with the feeling of constantly moving in circles, while Petersburg has a simpler, more navigable layout.

Cleanliness

Petersburg is cleaner on the whole, with air currents circulate fresh air in from the sea, unlike in Moscow. Of course, there is definitely litter in both cities, but more trash can be seen on the street in Moscow which is also a bit dingier in parts.

A huge aspect that nearly everyone mentions when asked is that the pace of life in Moscow is faster. In Petersburg, people are less pushy and will stop and smell the roses, while in Moscow, everything is important and urgent and everyone walks at lightning speed. Probably the largest contributing factor to this is each city’s population size with Saint Petersburg at around 5 million and Moscow around 12. I can’t say that I experienced this much myself, in fact I think both cities moved very and equally fast, but for the frequency of this response I received I have to include it.

About the author

Samantha guthrie.

Samantha Guthrie attends the University of Virginia, class of 2016. She is a double major in Foreign Affairs and Russian and Eastern European Studies. A Boren Scholarship recipient, she plans to work for the US government in a career related to national defense intelligence or international aid. Her research focuses on the relationship between Russians and Caucasians. She spent spring and summer 2014 in St. Petersburg with SRAS Russian Studies Abroad and Russian as a Second Language.

Program attended: Challenge Grants: Funding for Study Abroad

View all posts by: Samantha Guthrie

• College Study Abroad

Summer Scholarships

Summer Study Abroad Scholarships

Summer Scholarship Deadlines

Summer - APRIL 1 Frederick Douglass-O'Connell Global Internship - FEBRUARY 1 Benjamin A Gilman International Scholarship - MARCH 7​

• CIEE awards more than 1,000 scholarships per term

Don't Delay - Apply Today

Looking for summer study abroad scholarships? We’ve got you covered, as we offer a variety of need, merit, and other scholarships & grants to help you on your journey.

Ranging from out $200 Go Abroad Again program to our $1,500 Douglass O'Connell Scholars Grant and more, our scholarships & grants help meet the needs of our students and provide more equitable access to our summer study abroad programs. Check out our summer study abroad scholarships & grants below! 

* For students participating in 2 consecutive Summer Blocks, please see the Quarter Scholarships page for award amounts.

Based on students' Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) from their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Note: EFC (Expected Family Contribution) is being replaced by SAI (Student Aid Index) for the 2024-2025 FAFSA cycle. Due to unexpected FAFSA delays during the transition, CIEE will accept the 2023-2024 FAFSA (EFC) or the 2024-2025 FAFSA (SAI) for Fall 2024. For students who provide the 2023-2024 FAFSA (EFC), we will continue to guarantee GAIN Travel Grants to those with EFCs of 10,000 or less. For students who provide the 2024-2025 FAFSA (SAI), we will guarantee GAIN Travel Grants to Pell Eligible students. Applications must received by the April 1st deadline for the guarantee. Students with high need should still apply even if they do not meet the criteria noted above.

Based on academic achievement. Complete the  Scholarships & Grants  portion of your program application, along with an essay, to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.

Awards are based on program, alumni status, or enrolled institution.

Get Started

Read the How to Apply page to understand all your options

Search for your study abroad or internship program and start your application

Complete the Scholarship & Grants application before the deadline 

(April 1/October 15, depending on your term)

FAQs About Summer Study Abroad Scholarships

If you’re wondering how to apply for summer study abroad scholarships, we’ve got you covered! Follow these 3 simple steps:

• Search for your dream summer program and start an application  
• Review CIEE scholarships and grants
• Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your application  

For more detailed instructions on how to apply to merit-based and need-based summer scholarships, check out How To Apply To Scholarships or read our blog post: How to Apply to a Study Abroad Scholarship at CIEE: 4 Steps . 

Summer term study abroad scholarship applications are always open, meaning you can submit the Scholarships & Grants portion of your CIEE Study Abroad application any time. Remember to submit your application by the April 1 summer programs deadline to be considered for summer funding.

While the cost of your summer study abroad program varies based on the specific program you choose, our summer programs can range anywhere from less than $5,450 to $9,250 or more . See some summer study abroad program examples below:

• Summer Ancient + Modern Japan -- $6,950
• Summer in Florence -- $5,450
• Summer Accelerated Chinese Language -- $8,450
• Summer Arabic Language -- $9,250
• Summer Global Internship -- $7,450 

Terms and Conditions

*Need-Based Grants: Students must submit their CIEE Scholarships & Grants application by these dates and provide proof of an eligible application to the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship. **Need-Based Grants: Students with an EFC of 10,000 or less must submit their CIEE Scholarships & Grants application by these dates to be guaranteed a GAIN Travel Grant.  Students with EFCs above 10,000 should still apply, but they will be considered after the Scholarships and Grants Deadline. The GAIN Travel Grant is valid toward outbound and return airfare on CIEE programs. This is a credit with our partner travel agency and has no cash value. If you are selected for a GAIN Travel Grant, CIEE will not reimburse you for out of pocket travel costs.  If your institution covers your flights, you are not eligible for a GAIN Travel Grant. Review the maximum summer  scholarships caps .

Related Links 

Semester Scholarships | Quarter Scholarships |  Single Block Scholarships   |  How to Apply  

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How to choose the best student card for study abroad

• A student card can be a viable option to use for travel, especially if the card doesn't charge foreign transaction fees.
• A student card could be a much more affordable alternative to a traditional travel credit card, which could be ideal for fitting into a student's budget abroad.
• If you're not quite ready to use a credit card, you can explore a few alternatives to finance your study abroad experience.

Studying abroad can be an exciting experience, and you’ll have many things to prepare for as you plan your trip. If you’re a student, you may wonder where you’ll find the best restaurants or the best shops for souvenirs. And if you’re a parent, your child’s safety and overall experience may be your top priority. One place where these concerns may overlap is finances. Having a secure financial situation while studying abroad can be crucial to ensuring the most enjoyable experience. Credit cards are a payment option that often comes with many insurances and other protections, making them some of the most useful and secure ways to finance a trip. And if you’re a student, you’ll likely be eligible for student cards that come with a host of other helpful features while you’re overseas.

What is a student credit card?

A student credit card is a type of credit card designed for people attending colleges or universities and who may have little or no credit history. The credit requirements on student cards are often more relaxed than a traditional unsecured credit card , and many are fairly low on fees, too. Student cards also usually have rewards structures that fit into a student budget. Common bonus spending categories on student cards include dining, entertainment, streaming services, rideshares and groceries.

Student cards vs. general travel cards

While it may seem obvious to use a travel card to cover travel purchases, it’s important to consider a few key differences, especially if you’re a student planning to study abroad.

The best travel cards will likely skip foreign transaction fees, but the primary standouts on these types of credit cards are the top-tier travel perks, like lounge access and travel insurance. The catch is that premium travel cards often come at a premium price, with many of the best travel cards charging annual fees from $95 to more than $600. Travel cards also often require at least a good credit score for approval, which could push these options out of reach for students with limited or no credit history.

Student credit cards can act as a decent stopgap to a full-blown travel credit card, because of the differences in credit requirements and costs compared to travel rewards cards. While you may not get travel-specific rewards with a student card, you could still take advantage of rewards on other top categories in your budget.

When exploring the best student cards , here are some considerations to keep in mind with  affordability, credit requirements and rewards.

Does the card charge a foreign transaction fee?

A foreign transaction fee is an added charge, usually 3 percent, for processing purchases with a currency different than your own. Using a card with foreign transaction fees in a country you could be studying in for four months or longer can get expensive fast. Here’s an example of what a semester’s worth of spending on books and food would cost a student from the University of Iowa studying in Florence, Italy, if they purchased every book and meal with their credit card. The figures represented are based on estimates from an average cost of studying abroad survey Bankrate conducted.

Some student credit cards don’t charge a foreign transaction fee, but not all. When choosing a student card for study abroad, save yourself some time (and money) by picking a card that doesn’t tack on extra fees for foreign transactions.

In what categories will you spend the most?

While some student cards may not offer travel-specific rewards, these cards still often have rewards programs built to fit a student’s spending habits. Will you be using your card primarily for souvenirs, dining, or school supplies? Depending on where you spend most, you’ll want to pick a card that aligns with your top spending categories so you can get the most out of your rewards program.

Is the card network accepted in your destination?

Credit card networks are different from card issuers, though some card issuers have their own networks. Credit card networks are companies that help facilitate the transaction between your bank and the merchant you’re making a purchase with. Visa and Mastercard are the two most widely known and used credit card networks — merchants accept them virtually everywhere. Issuers with their own card networks, like Discover and American Express, tend to have lower international acceptance rates. Take note of your card issuer’s network, so you know merchants in your host country will accept your card when you swipe it.

Can you apply without a Social Security Number?

If you’re an international student studying in the U.S . you can still apply for a credit card, if you want one. Some student credit cards don’t require a Social Security number as part of the application; instead, they may require an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), which could make them more accessible to international students who want to use credit. Look into the application requirements and short list cards that accept international identification forms.

The best student cards for study abroad

The following student cards are some of the best available for students planning to study abroad. These cards share many of the notable characteristics that make a card good for international use like skipping foreign transaction fees, offering valuable rewards and even providing opportunities to upgrade once the trip — or college career — comes to an end.

Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card: Best overall student card

This card doesn’t charge an annual fee or a foreign transaction fee, which puts it squarely in the running as a good card for study abroad. The card also doesn’t charge a penalty APR if you miss a payment, although missing a payment means up to $40 in a late payment fee. Eliminating the penalty APR is a great plus for a student cardholder who may be getting used to handling their credit and keeping up with bills. But it’s important to note that even without a penalty APR, missed and late payments will have negative effects on your credit score.

The Capital One SavorOne Student also has a very valuable rewards structure. You’ll get competitive rewards rates on a host of categories, including dining, groceries, entertainment and streaming. These categories cover a lot of what makes up a student budget, and you’d likely be able to reap a lot of reward with little effort. The main drawback to consider with this card is the high ongoing APR with no intro offers, which can get expensive quickly if you end up carrying balances.

Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card: Best for flat-rate rewards

If you’re a student who would prefer to earn the same rewards rate on everything you buy, the Capital One Quicksilver Student is a solid choice. You’ll earn a competitive 1.5 percent cash back on all purchases, so you won’t have to worry about tracking rotating bonus categories or being strategic with your budget to get the most out of your card. Earning a flat rewards rate is also ideal for students who spend broadly across many categories, which could be the case during a study abroad program. The card also aces affordability with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees. And you can earn a $50 welcome bonus by spending just $100 in your first three months with the card — a fairly low spend requirement — especially when compared to the $500 and more required spends on many non-student credit cards.

You’ll still want to avoid carrying a balance, since there are no intro APR offers and the ongoing interest rate is high. Also, while some student cards may waive a first late payment fee, the Capital One Quicksilver Student card doesn’t, and you could face a charge of up to $40 for a missed or late payment. To avoid extra fees and other major damage to your credit score, you’ll want to stay on top of when your bill is due and pay off your balance as often as possible.

Discover it® Student Cash Back: Best for bonus categories

Students who are more comfortable with crafting a strategy to get more rewards value could find a lot to love in the Discover it® Student Cash Back . The card’s most notable perks are the lucrative rewards program and Discover’s Cashback Match™ welcome offer. While you’ll have to work around a quarterly spending cap and activate the bonus category each quarter to benefit from the rate boost, it’s still one of the most valuable student cards. Quarterly categories often include common categories students spend in, and if you tailor your spending each quarter to match the bonus category, you can maximize this card’s value fairly easily.

With Discover’s Cashback Match™ program, Discover will match your reward earnings at the end of your first year with the card, making it one of — if not the most — valuable welcome offers available on a student credit card. In line with the other cards that are ideal for studying abroad, this Discover card doesn’t charge an annual fee or foreign transaction fees. Your first late payment is also waived (up to $41 after). One thing to note about Discover cards is that the international acceptance is much lower than a Visa or Mastercard credit card, so you’ll want to do extra research to ensure merchants will accept this card at your destination.

Alternatives to using a student card abroad

If you don’t want to open your own line of credit for a study abroad trip, here are some alternatives you can consider.

• Become an authorized user: If a parent, guardian or another person you trust has their own travel card, consider asking to become an authorized user . When you’re an authorized user on someone’s credit card account, you benefit from their available credit and can borrow against it like it were your own account. You will, however, want to communicate clearly with the primary cardholder on what your spending allowance is and how much, if any, of the card payment you should take on.
• Stick to cash: Another payment method that’s almost always accepted is cash. If having your own credit card is too much to manage, you can exchange cash for the currency accepted in the hosting country and use it for purchases abroad. It’s important to note that there are safety concerns associated with carrying around large amounts of cash, so students should be diligent. In a post-pandemic world, some merchants may opt for a cashless payment policy, so you’ll want to have an alternative ready for this situation as well (and vice versa).
• Scholarship money: Apply for financial aid through your university or the university in your host country. In addition to covering housing and the supplies needed for your studies, students could use any extra funds to finance other living expenses.

The bottom line

Students have many options to choose from when deciding on how to finance time abroad. Whether you elect to use a student card, a travel card, stick to cash or become an authorized user, make sure you consider all of the possibilities that come with spending money internationally. Prepare for situations where a merchant is cashless or cash only, and have a clear understanding of what you’ll need most out of whatever financing option you choose. Organizing your finances early can allow for one less thing to worry about during your time abroad, so you can fully immerse yourself in learning and culture.