The Boren Awards for International Study provide significant funding—up to $25,000—for U.S. undergraduate students who are committed to mastering less commonly taught languages in regions critical to U.S. national interests. Administered by the National Security Education Program (NSEP), the Boren Awards aim to build a broader and more skilled pool of U.S. citizens with expertise in languages and cultures that are underrepresented in traditional study abroad programs.
Award Details
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Award Amount: Up to $25,000 for undergraduate students.
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Focus Areas: Languages and regions that are considered vital to U.S. national security, such as:
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Arabic, Chinese, Russian, Portuguese, Swahili, Turkish, and others
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Regions including Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America
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Eligibility: Must be a U.S. citizen and enrolled in an accredited undergraduate institution.
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Service Requirement: Recipients commit to working in the federal government for at least one year following graduation, typically in a national security role.
Key Features
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Language and Cultural Immersion: The program supports long-term (semester or year-long) study abroad experiences that immerse students in the language and daily life of their host country.
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Career Development: In addition to language learning, the award positions students for federal careers in diplomacy, intelligence, and national defense.
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Application Requirements: Applicants must submit a detailed study plan, including language goals, regional focus, and an explanation of how their program aligns with U.S. national security interests. Letters of recommendation and a commitment to post-graduate service are also required.
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Ideal Candidates
Boren Awards are designed for students who:
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Are passionate about language acquisition and international affairs
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Plan to work in public service, particularly in federal government roles
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Want to contribute to national security through cultural and linguistic understanding
