Study Abroad Scholarships: Funding International Education Opportunities

Find the best study abroad scholarships for students at all levels. Learn how to apply, eligibility criteria, and tips to secure funding for your international education journey.

31 Active Scholarships Available
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Why Study Abroad Scholarships Matter

Studying abroad offers academic enrichment, cultural competency, language skills, and global career opportunities — but costs add up quickly. Scholarships ease financial burdens, open access to diverse experiences, and help you focus on learning rather than logistics. This overview not only lists awards but also teaches how to strategize your funding plan so you can maximize your global education opportunities.


Study Abroad Scholarships: Funding International Education Opportunities (31 Available)

Browse all scholarships in this category—featured partners highlighted at top.

All Study Abroad Scholarships Scholarships

Click any scholarship to view full details and application requirements.

Scholarship NameAward AmountDeadlineEligibilityActions
Spiegleman Family Scholarship
$40,000Varies30–60 min
Boren Fellowships
$25,000Varies60+ min
Boren Scholarships
$25,000Varies60+ min
Boren Awards
$25,000Varies60+ min
Boren Scholarship
$25,000Jan 27, 202760+ min
Boren Fellowship
$25,000Jan 20, 202760+ min
Georges Lurcy Fellowships
$20,000Varies60+ min
Jan Kozma Italian Summer Travel Scholarship
Min. GPA: 3.7
$9,000Varies60+ min
Sonkin-Weisman Scholars Program
$6,000Varies60+ min
Ravenell “Ricky” Keller III Study Abroad Scholarship
$5,000Varies15–30 min
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Types of Study Abroad Scholarships

University & Exchange Program Awards

Institutional awards for students participating in approved exchange or partner university programs abroad.

Government & Fulbright-Style Scholarships

Major programs funded by governments (e.g., Fulbright, Gilman, Boren) that support significant international study or research.

Need-Based Travel & Education Scholarships

Awards that consider financial need in addition to study abroad participation.

Language Immersion & Cultural Awards

Scholarships that support language-focused study, cultural exchange, or area-specific programs.

Field-Specific International Scholarships

Funding for students pursuing international studies related to business, public health, STEM fields, education, and more.

Summer & Short-Term Program Scholarships

Scholarships for short-term or summer study abroad experiences.


How to Find & Qualify for Study Abroad Scholarships

  1. Start with your campus study abroad office — they often have exclusive awards.
  2. Use scholarship search tools with filters for international and travel-based awards.
  3. Explore government programs like Fulbright, Gilman, Boren, and others for major funding.
  4. Look for field-specific international awards tied to your major or career interest.
  5. Track deadlines carefully — international scholarships often have early or rolling deadlines.

Applying early and applying to multiple awards increases your chance of winning funding.


Realistic Application Tips That Work

  1. Craft a compelling purpose statement. Explain how your abroad experience connects to academic and career goals.
  2. Highlight cultural engagement experience. Whether volunteer work, language study, or international projects — show your global readiness.
  3. Demonstrate language commitment. For language-focused awards, include proficiency evidence or progress plans.
  4. Get strong recommendations from faculty or study abroad advisors. These add weight to your applications.
  5. Offer a post-abroad impact plan. Explain how you will use your international experience to benefit your home campus, career, or community.

These elements resonate with award reviewers who look for intentional, mission-aligned applicants.

How to Increase Your Chances of Winning

1. Start Early

Begin your scholarship search and applications at least 2–3 months before deadlines. This gives you time to craft compelling essays and gather strong recommendations.

2. Personalize Your Essays

Avoid generic responses. Share your unique story, challenges overcome, and specific goals. Show reviewers why you're the ideal candidate for this particular scholarship.

3. Apply to Multiple Scholarships

Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Apply to 10–20+ scholarships to maximize your chances. Even smaller awards add up to significant funding.

4. Follow Instructions Carefully

Many applications are rejected for not following directions. Read requirements thoroughly, meet word counts, and submit all required materials by the deadline.

Common Application Requirements

Required

Personal Essay

500–1000 word essay explaining your background, goals, and why you deserve the scholarship.

Required

Academic Transcripts

Official or unofficial transcripts showing your current GPA and coursework.

Often Required

Letters of Recommendation

1–3 letters from teachers, counselors, or mentors who can speak to your qualifications.

Sometimes

Additional Materials

Resume, portfolio, financial documentation (FAFSA), or proof of specific eligibility criteria.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are study abroad scholarships?
Study abroad scholarships are financial awards that help students fund their education in another country. They can cover tuition, travel, living expenses, and other costs associated with studying internationally.
Who is eligible for study abroad scholarships?
Eligibility varies by scholarship, but many are open to high school, undergraduate, and graduate students. Some scholarships are available to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, DACA recipients, and international students, while others may have specific requirements related to major, financial need, or destination country.
How can I find study abroad scholarships?
Students can find study abroad scholarships through university financial aid offices, study abroad program providers, government agencies, and scholarship search platforms. It's important to research early and explore multiple sources.
What documents are typically required for study abroad scholarship applications?
Common requirements include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statements or essays, proof of financial need, and sometimes language proficiency scores or acceptance letters from a study abroad program.
Are there scholarships for specific countries or regions?
Yes, many scholarships are designated for study in particular countries or regions. Some are offered by host governments, universities, or organizations promoting cultural exchange.
Can I apply for more than one study abroad scholarship?
Yes, students are encouraged to apply for multiple scholarships to increase their chances of receiving funding. Be sure to check each scholarship's rules regarding concurrent awards.
Are there scholarships for underrepresented groups in study abroad programs?
Yes, there are scholarships specifically for students from underrepresented backgrounds, including those based on ethnicity, gender, disability, or first-generation college status.
Do I need to demonstrate financial need to qualify for these scholarships?
Some study abroad scholarships are need-based and require proof of financial need, while others are merit-based or open to all applicants regardless of financial status.