Okay, so I’m planning on studying abroad next year, hopefully either in Paris for a semester (undergrad) or doing a full year for my Master’s in London. It’s super expensive, obviously, and my current financial aid probably won’t cover everything, especially not the program fees on top of tuition.
I’ve looked at some general scholarship websites, but they’re overwhelming. I was wondering if anyone knew of scholarships that are specifically designed for students who are going abroad? Like, not just general scholarships that you could use for study abroad, but ones where that’s their specific purpose.
I’m particularly interested in scholarships for:
- Specific regions: Anything that supports studying in Europe, ideally Western Europe like France, the UK, or even Italy.
- Specific fields of study: I’m a history major (undergrad) and will be doing a Master’s in International Relations. So scholarships related to those fields would be amazing.
- Need-based scholarships: My family isn’t rolling in dough, so anything that prioritizes students with financial need is a must.
- Merit-based scholarships: I have a pretty good GPA, so I’d also be interested in scholarships that reward academic achievement.
And also:
- Are there any scholarships specifically for graduate study abroad, since that’s where I’m leaning at the moment?
- Are there any scholarships tied to specific universities or study abroad programs?
- What are some good keywords to use when searching for these things online? "Study abroad scholarships" feels too broad!
Thanks in advance for any help! I’m feeling a little lost in the sauce here.
Answer
Yes, there are numerous scholarships specifically designed to support undergraduate and graduate students who wish to study abroad. These scholarships are offered by a variety of sources, including universities, government organizations, private foundations, and international organizations. The eligibility criteria, award amounts, and application processes vary widely depending on the specific scholarship.
Scholarship Sources:
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Universities and Colleges: Many universities offer scholarships to their students who participate in study abroad programs affiliated with the institution. These scholarships may be funded by the university itself or by endowments established by alumni and donors. Students should contact their university’s study abroad office and financial aid office to inquire about available scholarships and the application procedures. Some universities have specific scholarships for study in certain regions or countries.
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Government Organizations: Several government organizations offer scholarships and grants for study abroad.
- U.S. Department of State: The U.S. Department of State sponsors several exchange programs, including the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program, which provides funding for undergraduate students of limited financial means to study or intern abroad, especially encouraging students to study in non-traditional destinations. Another program is the Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program, which offers intensive language training in critical foreign languages.
- Foreign Governments: Some foreign governments offer scholarships to international students who wish to study in their countries. These scholarships can be a valuable source of funding for study abroad programs.
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Private Foundations and Organizations: Numerous private foundations and organizations offer scholarships for study abroad.
- The Fulbright Program: While often associated with graduate study and research, some Fulbright grants are available for undergraduate study abroad.
- The Freeman-ASIA Awards: Freeman Awards for Study in Asia (Freeman-ASIA) provides scholarships for U.S. undergraduate students with demonstrated financial need to study abroad in East and Southeast Asia.
- The Boren Awards: Boren Scholarships, an initiative of the National Security Education Program, provide funding for U.S. undergraduate students to study less commonly taught languages in world regions critical to U.S. interests, and the Boren Fellowships support graduate students.
- Rotary Foundation: Rotary International offers scholarships for students to study abroad in various fields.
- Diversity Abroad Scholarships: Diversity Abroad provides scholarships specifically for students from underrepresented backgrounds in study abroad.
- Fund for Education Abroad (FEA): FEA provides scholarships to students who are underrepresented among the U.S. study abroad population.
- International Organizations: Some international organizations, such as the United Nations and UNESCO, offer scholarships and fellowships for study abroad, often focusing on specific fields or regions.
Types of Scholarships:
- Merit-Based Scholarships: Awarded based on academic achievement, leadership skills, and extracurricular involvement.
- Need-Based Scholarships: Awarded based on financial need, as determined by the student’s family income and assets.
- Program-Specific Scholarships: Awarded to students participating in specific study abroad programs or studying at specific institutions.
- Region-Specific Scholarships: Awarded to students studying in particular regions or countries.
- Subject-Specific Scholarships: Awarded to students studying specific subjects, such as STEM fields, humanities, or languages.
- Identity-Based Scholarships: Awarded to students based on their ethnic, racial, gender, or sexual orientation identity.
- Scholarships for Specific Student Populations: Awards for first-generation college students, students with disabilities, or veterans.
Factors to Consider When Applying:
- Eligibility Requirements: Carefully review the eligibility requirements for each scholarship, including GPA requirements, citizenship requirements, major requirements, and study abroad program requirements.
- Application Deadlines: Pay close attention to application deadlines and submit all required materials on time.
- Essay Requirements: Craft a compelling essay that highlights your academic achievements, personal qualities, and reasons for wanting to study abroad.
- Letters of Recommendation: Obtain strong letters of recommendation from professors, advisors, or mentors who can attest to your academic abilities and potential.
- Financial Need: If applying for a need-based scholarship, be prepared to provide documentation of your family’s income and assets.
Resources for Finding Scholarships:
- University Study Abroad Office: This is the first place to start your scholarship search.
- Online Scholarship Databases: Websites such as NAFSA: Association of International Educators, IIEPassport, and GoAbroad.com offer comprehensive databases of study abroad scholarships.
- Financial Aid Office: Your university’s financial aid office can provide information about scholarships and other financial aid options.
- Internet Search Engines: Use specific keywords, such as "study abroad scholarship," "scholarships for study in [country]," or "scholarships for [major] study abroad."
By researching thoroughly and applying strategically, students can increase their chances of receiving scholarships to help fund their study abroad experiences.
