The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship is a prestigious and transformative opportunity aimed at broadening access to study and intern abroad experiences for U.S. undergraduate students. Funded by the U.S. Department of State, this program is designed to support students who might not otherwise be able to afford to travel abroad, especially those who are traditionally underrepresented in international education.
Award Overview
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Scholarship Amount: Up to $5,000
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Eligibility: U.S. undergraduate students who are receiving Federal Pell Grants
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Purpose: To support study or intern abroad programs in any country with an overall goal of encouraging participation in global education among diverse and financially limited populations
If you need more explanation or more information, you can book a consultation and speak to Happy Face
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Gilman Scholarship, students must meet the following requirements:
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Be a U.S. citizen
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Be an undergraduate student in good academic standing at an accredited U.S. institution
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Receive a Federal Pell Grant during the time of application or during the term of the study abroad program
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Apply to a credit-bearing study abroad or internship program in a country with a travel advisory level of 1 or 2 from the U.S. Department of State
Award Distribution and Additional Funding
While the base Gilman Scholarship award can go up to $5,000, students who meet certain criteria may qualify for additional funding:
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Gilman-McCain Scholarship: An additional $5,000 for students who are child dependents of active-duty military personnel.
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Critical Need Language Award: Up to $3,000 extra for students studying one of the U.S. Department of State’s critical need languages (such as Arabic, Chinese, Hindi, Korean, Russian, etc.).
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STEM majors and underrepresented groups: Students in these categories are highly encouraged to apply and often have strong success rates.
If you need more explanation or more information, you can book a consultation and speak to Happy Face
Program Benefits Beyond the Financial Support
The Gilman Scholarship is more than just funding—it provides recipients with valuable opportunities for personal and professional growth. Scholars are recognized by the U.S. Department of State, join a global alumni network, and are often invited to participate in networking events, career development workshops, and public diplomacy initiatives.
Application Process
Applying for the Gilman Scholarship involves the following steps:
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Complete the Online Application: This includes information about your study/internship program, academic background, and financial aid.
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Submit Essays:
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Statement of Purpose Essay
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Follow-on Service Project Proposal, which outlines how the applicant will inspire others to study abroad upon returning.
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Transcripts and Verification: Applicants must provide an unofficial transcript and proof of their Pell Grant status.
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Certifications: Applications require verification and endorsement from both the applicant’s study abroad and financial aid offices.
If you need more explanation or more information, you can book a consultation and speak to Happy Face
Selection Criteria
The Gilman selection committee evaluates applicants based on several key criteria:
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Impact of program and destination on academic and professional goals
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Community engagement potential
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Financial need
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Academic preparedness
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Quality of follow-on service project proposal
Applications are accepted during two main cycles: Fall and Spring, with deadlines typically several months in advance of the program start date.
