I'm really interested in studying abroad during college, but I'm worried about the expenses. Are there any specific scholarships available for students looking to travel and study internationally?
Yes, there are various scholarships available that aim to support students who wish to study abroad. These scholarships often come from different sources like the federal government, private organizations, colleges and universities, and study abroad programs themselves.
1. Gilman International Scholarship Program: This is a program of the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, and it supports students who have been traditionally under-represented in education abroad. This includes students with high financial need, first-generation college students, students in STEM fields, students from diverse ethnic backgrounds, and students with disabilities.
2. Boren Awards: The Boren Scholarships offer up to $20,000 for students studying abroad in regions critical to U.S. interests. There's a service requirement which involves working in the federal government for at least one year after graduation.
3. Fund for Education Abroad (FEA): FEA gives preference to students with financial need, first-generation college students, and those studying in non-traditional locations.
4. Your own College or University: Many educational institutions offer their own scholarships for students planning to partake in their study abroad programs. It's worth checking in with your school's study abroad and financial aid offices to see what assistance might be available.
5. Study Abroad Program Scholarships: Some study abroad programs offer scholarships or discounts to students. If you have a specific program in mind, it's worth it to check their website or contact them directly to see if they can offer any financial assistance.
Remember, you'll need to submit applications for these scholarships, which may require essays, references, and proof of financial need or academic merit. It's never too early to start looking into your options and planning your applications.
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