Okay, so I’m a student at State University, and I’m really interested in studying abroad next year. I’m a Marine Biology major, specifically, and I’m looking to spend a semester, maybe even a full year, somewhere with really rich marine ecosystems. Places like Australia, the Galapagos Islands, or even somewhere in the Caribbean are all on my radar.
I’ve started looking into scholarships to help cover the costs, but most of what I’ve found are either general study abroad scholarships or ones that seem more geared towards, like, business or language majors.
So, my question is, are there actual scholarships specifically for students studying marine biology (or very closely related fields like oceanography or marine conservation) abroad? And if so, how do I find them? I’m having a hard time just Googling, it feels like I’m wading through a lot of unrelated stuff. Are there any good websites or databases that specialize in this kind of thing? Any specific keywords I should be using in my searches? My GPA is a 3.7, if that matters. And I’m eligible for need-based aid, so scholarships that take financial need into account would be great too!
Answer
Yes, there are scholarships specifically for students studying abroad in various fields of study. The availability and type of scholarships will depend on your field of study, the country you plan to study in, your academic qualifications, and your financial need. Here’s a detailed breakdown of where to find them and what to consider:
General Scholarship Resources Targeting Study Abroad:
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Institute of International Education (IIE): IIE administers the Fulbright Program and other major scholarships. Their website is a good starting point for exploring funding opportunities.
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NAFSA: Association of International Educators: NAFSA provides resources and information related to international education, including scholarships.
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IIE Passport Study Abroad Funding: This is a searchable database of study abroad scholarships and grants. You can filter by country, field of study, and other criteria.
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GoAbroad.com: A comprehensive website with listings for study abroad programs, scholarships, and grants.
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Go Overseas: Similar to GoAbroad.com, offering a directory of study abroad programs and funding options.
- Diversity Abroad: Focuses on increasing diversity in study abroad and offers a scholarship directory geared toward underrepresented students.
Field-Specific Scholarship Examples:
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics):
- Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship: While not exclusively for STEM, it strongly encourages STEM students to apply. It’s a U.S. Department of State program that provides grants for U.S. undergraduate students of limited financial means to study or intern abroad.
- Boren Awards: For students studying critical languages and cultures, often with a focus on national security. STEM fields with applications to national security may be applicable. Boren Awards have a service requirement after graduation.
- DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service): Offers scholarships for STEM students to study or conduct research in Germany. They have programs for undergraduate and graduate students.
- Fund for Education Abroad (FEA): Offers scholarships with some specifically targeting STEM fields.
- Specific University Programs: Many universities have their own study abroad scholarships, some of which are specifically for students in their STEM departments. Check with your university’s study abroad office and your department.
- Business/Economics:
- BUTEX Scholarship: Available to students studying abroad at a BUTEX-affiliated university (primarily in the UK). It’s open to all fields but may be relevant for business and economics students.
- The Education Abroad Network (TEAN): Offers various scholarships for students studying in Asia and the Pacific, including those pursuing business-related fields.
- Freeman Awards for Study in Asia (Freeman-ASIA): Provides funding for U.S. undergraduate students to study in East and Southeast Asia. Business and economics are eligible fields.
- Specific University Programs: Many business schools and economics departments offer scholarships for study abroad opportunities.
- Humanities/Social Sciences:
- Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship: Applicable to a wide range of fields, including humanities and social sciences.
- Boren Awards: Relevant for students studying languages, cultures, and international affairs, with a service requirement after graduation.
- Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program: Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, CLS provides intensive language study in critical languages.
- DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service): Offers scholarships for students in humanities and social sciences to study or conduct research in Germany.
- Specific University Programs: Many universities offer scholarships for study abroad within their humanities and social science departments.
- Arts/Creative Fields:
- Fondation des États-Unis: Offers scholarships for American artists and researchers to study in Paris.
- David Baggarly Scholarship for Art and Design: A specific scholarship for students studying art and design abroad.
- Specific Art School Programs: Many art schools have their own study abroad programs with dedicated funding.
Country-Specific Scholarships:
Many countries offer scholarships to attract international students. These are often administered by government agencies, universities, or private foundations. Examples include:
- Germany: DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service).
- France: Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program, Fondation des États-Unis.
- United Kingdom: BUTEX Scholarship, Chevening Scholarships (for postgraduate students).
- Australia: Endeavour Leadership Program (Australian Government).
- Japan: Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarships.
- Canada: Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (for doctoral students).
Tips for Finding and Applying for Scholarships:
- Start Early: The scholarship application process can be lengthy, so begin your research well in advance of your intended study abroad program.
- Be Specific: Search for scholarships that are specifically tailored to your field of study, country of destination, and academic level.
- Read the Eligibility Requirements Carefully: Ensure that you meet all of the eligibility criteria before applying.
- Highlight Your Strengths: In your application, emphasize your academic achievements, relevant experiences, and personal qualities.
- Write a Strong Essay: The essay is often the most important part of the application. Make sure to clearly articulate your goals for studying abroad and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.
- Get Letters of Recommendation: Request letters of recommendation from professors or mentors who know you well and can speak to your abilities and potential.
- Proofread Carefully: Before submitting your application, proofread it carefully for any errors in grammar or spelling.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help: Contact your university’s study abroad office or financial aid office for assistance with your scholarship search and application.
- Apply for Multiple Scholarships: Increase your chances of receiving funding by applying for as many scholarships as you are eligible for.
- Consider Less Popular Locations: Scholarships may be more readily available for study abroad programs in less common destinations.
- Research Scholarship Databases: Utilize online scholarship databases to search for opportunities based on your specific criteria.
Key Takeaways:
- Field-specific study abroad scholarships do exist, but require dedicated research to uncover.
- General study abroad scholarships can be applied to various fields.
- Country-specific scholarships may be available, depending on your destination.
- Start your search early and apply to multiple scholarships to increase your chances of success.
- Consult with your university’s study abroad and financial aid offices for guidance.
