Financing Education Abroad
If you think studying abroad is impossible because it is too expensive, think again. Some programs are close in cost or less than a semester or year at University of Idaho. You can also use most financial aid and scholarships toward a study abroad experience, and there are many scholarships available specific to studying abroad.
Financial Aid
Students may use most types of financial aid toward for-credit international experiences. In some instances, if the program costs are more than it would normally cost to study at the University of Idaho, a student may receive additional financial aid, typically in the form of loans. Eligibility for additional aid is dependent on a number of factors including class standing, federal award limits, etc. Consult a financial aid advisor early in the program application process to determine eligibility to receive additional financial aid.
If students are not eligible for additional aid, they may want to consider applying for loans (referred to as private or alternative loans) through their local bank. Interest and repayment rates vary widely, so compare options early and contact the Student Financial Aid Services for a list of local banks providing student loans.
Scholarships
There are many scholarship and grants designed specifically for international experiences. Some are through designated funds, college endowments or specific affiliated programs. There are also national and international awards aimed at increasing the diversity and overall number of students who gain valuable international experience as a part of their college career. Review the scholarship list below and speak to an Education Abroad Advisor for more details and other ideas on how to finance your international experience!
Scholarships by Category
International Experience Grant
- Eligibility: Continuing, degree-seeking University of Idaho undergraduates, graduates and law students who have not previously received an IEG and are in good academic standing. Recipients must be participating in an international experience that awards academic credit for the experience. Recipients must be enrolled in a minimum of one (1) U of I credit for their international experience. Undergraduate students must have completed at least one (1) semester at U of I prior to their international experience.
- Award amount: $1,000
- To apply: Awards are determined on a first come, first served basis once a study abroad application is completed through the University of Idaho Education Abroad website. There is no separate grant application.
Erik Barnes Scholarship
- Eligibility: Varying awards available for students studying in China or Taiwan. Preference given to students with financial need and going on a yearlong program.
- Average awards: $1,000
- To apply: Students studying in China or Taiwan will automatically be considered. There is no separate scholarship application.
Idaho First-Generation Global Fellowship
- Application deadline: May 1
- Eligibility: Open to degree-seeking students who are in their first year at U of I and identify as a first-generation college student on their U of I application and/or FAFSA application. Recipients must be planning to participate in an education abroad experience during their U of I career with either ISA or TEAN.
- Award amount: 10 awards per year, up to $3,000
- To apply: Apply using the online application.
Scholarships for College of Letters, Arts & Social Sciences (CLASS) Majors
Tricia McCullough Memorial Scholarship
- Application deadline: Early April
- Eligibility: Open to students pursuing a major in CLASS who are in good academic standing, and who will be participating in a semester or yearlong study abroad program. Preference is given to students with an interest in volunteerism/community service. Financial need is a secondary consideration.
- To apply: Download the CLASS Study Abroad Scholarship application. Applications must be submitted to the CLASS Dean's Office in the Administration Building, room 117 or via email to class@uidaho.edu.
- Questions: Contact the CLASS Dean's Office at class@uidaho.edu.
David A. & Mary Alice Poe Study Abroad Scholarship
- Application deadline: Early April
- Award amount: 2 awards per year, up to $2,000
- Eligibility: Open to students pursuing a major in CLASS who have a minimum university 3.0 GPA, and who will be participating in a semester or yearlong study abroad program. Preference is given to juniors and seniors. Financial need is a secondary consideration.
- To apply: Download the CLASS Study Abroad Scholarship application. Applications must be submitted to the CLASS Dean's Office in the Administration Building, room 117 or via email to class@uidaho.edu.
- Questions: Contact the CLASS Dean's Office at class@uidaho.edu.
Willis E. Sullivan, III Memorial Study Abroad Scholarship
- Application deadline: Early April
- Award amount: 2-3 awards per year, up to $5,000
- Eligibility: Open to students pursuing a major in CLASS who are Idaho residents with a junior or senior class standing, and who will be participating in a semester or yearlong foreign language/culture study abroad program. Financial need is a secondary consideration.
- To apply: Download the CLASS Study Abroad Scholarship application. Applications must be submitted to the CLASS Dean's Office in the Administration Building, room 117 or via email to class@uidaho.edu.
- Questions: Contact the CLASS Dean's Office at class@uidaho.edu.
Ware Family Study Abroad Scholarship
- Application deadline: Early April
- Award amount: Up to $1,000
- Eligibility: Open to students pursuing a major in CLASS who are in good academic standing, and who are Idaho residents, and who will be participating in a semester or yearlong study abroad program. Preference is given to students from Lewiston, Idaho, or students who are members of Delta Tau Delta fraternity. Financial need is a secondary consideration.
- To apply: Download the CLASS Study Abroad Scholarship application. Applications must be submitted to the CLASS Dean's Office in the Administration Building, room 117 or via email to class@uidaho.edu.
- Questions: Contact the CLASS Dean's Office at class@uidaho.edu.
Scholarships for School of Global Studies Majors (French, Spanish, Latin American Studies, International Studies and Modern Language Business)
Barbara K. Dahl Language Immersion Scholarship
- Application deadline: Early April for the following Fall, and early October for the following Spring and Summer
- Award amount: Up to $1,300
- Eligibility: For full-time French, Latin American Studies, Modern Language Business and Spanish majors who will be studying abroad for a summer, semester or a year.
- To apply: Download the Dahl Scholarship application. Applications may be submitted to School of Global Studies at class-afs@uidaho.edu.
- Questions: Contact the School of Global Studies regarding this scholarship.
School of Global Studies Study Abroad Awards
- Application deadline: Early April for the following Fall, and early October for the following Spring and Summer
- Award amount: Up to $1,300
- Eligibility: French, Spanish, and Modern Language Business majors who will be studying abroad for a summer, semester or a year.
- To apply: Download the School of Global Studies application. Applications may be submitted to the School of Global Studies at class-afs@uidaho.edu.
- Questions: Contact the School of Global Studies at class-afs@uidaho.edu regarding this scholarship.
Larson, Skiles, and Zaring Scholarships
- Application deadline: Pickup applications by March 1
- Average awards: Up to $1,300
- Eligibility: For full-time International Studies majors who will be studying abroad for a semester or year.
- To apply: Pickup an application from your academic advisor in IS.
- Questions: Contact the Martin Institute regarding these scholarships.
Scholarships for College of Business & Economics Majors
Multiple Awards
- Award amount: Up to $2,000
- Application deadline: October 1 for Spring terms; April 1 for Summer and Fall terms.
- Eligibility: Open to students pursuing a major in College of Business and Economics. Preference is given to semester and yearlong programs, but is open to summer programs.
- To apply: Fill out the online application form.
- Questions: Contact the College of Business & Economics Student Engagement Director regarding these scholarships.
Scholarships for College of Engineering Majors
Multiple Awards
- Application deadline: One semester in advance of program.
- Eligibility: Open to students pursuing a major in College of Engineering who are in good academic standing.
- To apply: Contact the College of Engineering Student Services for an application.
- Questions: Contact the College of Engineering Student Services regarding these scholarships.
Scholarships for College of Science Majors
Multiple Awards
- Application deadline: October 4 for Spring 2023 programs; April 4 for Fall 2023 programs
- Average awards: Up to $1,500
- Eligibility: Open to students pursuing a major in College of Science who are in good academic standing.
- To apply: Download the College of Science Study Abroad Scholarship application. Applications may be submitted to the College of Science at science@uidaho.edu.
Fund for Education Abroad (FEA)
Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents with demonstrated financial need, currently enrolled as undergraduates who plan to study abroad for credit for at least four weeks. FEA awards are intended to support students planning to participate in high-quality, rigorous education abroad programs. Award amount: up to $10,000. For more information, see the FEA website.
The Global Studies Foundation (GSF) Grant for Student Travel and Study Abroad
Designed to support foreign language training and academic studies abroad, this grant provides supplemental funds for American students who already are studying abroad under the auspices of an official study abroad program conducted by an accredited academic institution. GSF is particularly interested in funding the study of strategically significant countries and languages. Selection criteria include academic performance, program merit, and outreach potential. For more information, visit the Global Studies Foundation website.
The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi
Eligible to students who are members and non-members, who have at least a 3.75 GPA, and who have completed 30 university-level credits but less than 90. Average award: $1,000. For more information, visit the Phi Kappa Phi website.
The Organization of American States (OAS)
The OAS is made up of 35 countries of the Americas who have ratified the OAS Charter to achieve peace, security, democracy and development. The OAS offers scholarship funding for study abroad for undergraduate and graduate students, and professional development in member states. For more information, visit the OAS website.
Scholarships & Fellowships with Support from the Distinguished Scholarships Program
The University of Idaho Distinguished Scholarships Program administers and assists with the application process for the following scholarships and fellowships. Email the Faculty Fellow, Dr. Dilshani Sarathchandra, for more information.
Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship
Undergraduates who are Pell grant recipients and U.S. citizens qualify. Awards range from $3,000-8,000. Students must meet with an Education Abroad Advisor and a Financial Aid Advisor prior to applying for the Gilman Scholarship as each office has a role in certification of the application. For more information, see the Gilman Scholarship website.
Critical Language Scholarships for Intensive Summer Institutes
CLS is part of a wider government initiative to expand the number of Americans studying and mastering foreign languages that are critical to national security and economic prosperity. This award is for students studying intensive language during summer terms. More information can be found on the CLS website.
Freeman-ASIA
The Freeman-ASIA Program aims to increase the number of U.S. undergraduates who study in East and Southeast Asia. Award amounts vary: up to $3,000 for summer programs, up to $5,000 for semester/quarter programs, and up to $7,000 for an academic year program. For more information, see the Freeman-ASIA website.
National Security Education Program (NSEP) David L. Boren Fellowships
NSEP focuses on geographic areas, languages, and fields of study deemed critical to U.S. national security, and applicants must fulfill a one-year service requirement after the exchange. Award amounts vary: $5,000-10,000 per semester for up to two semesters. For more information, visit the Boren Awards website.
Austria
View the Austrian Database for Scholarships & Research Grants website.
Canada
The Killam Fellowships Program
For American undergraduates enrolled at four year degree granting institutions. Students in all fields of study are welcome to apply. Average awards: $5,000 (semester), $10,000 (academic year), and $500 health insurance allowance, up to $800 for in-country travel, a 3-day orientation in Ottawa and a 3-day seminar in Washington DC. For more information, visit the Killam Fellowships website.
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship
Applicants must be graduate students pursuing a doctorate degree and be nominated by their host institution. Award amount: up to $50,000 per year, for up to three years. For more information, visit the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship website.
Other Canadian scholarship opportunities can be found on the EduCanada website.
Germany
Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange for Young Professionals (CBYX)
Yearlong fellowship for students and recent graduates to study and intern in Germany. Open to applicants in all career fields though preference given to students in vocational, technical, engineering, business, agricultural and scientific fields. Annually, the CBYX program provides 75 participants with two months of intensive German language training, a semester of study at German University or University of Applied Sciences, a five-month internship with a German company in the participant’s career field, housing, transatlantic airfare, health insurance, and a monthly stipend for living expenses. For more information, visit the CBYX website.
DAAD German Exchange Scholarships
Scholarships available for undergraduate and graduate students; summer, semester and academic year terms; for study abroad, research and internship programs; and more. For more information, visit the DAAD website.
Other German scholarship opportunities can be found on the DAAD database website.
Japan
Bridging Scholarships for Study Abroad in Japan
Average awards: $2,500 (semester), $4,000 (academic year). For more information, visit the Bridging Scholarships website.
Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO)
Scholarships awarded based on good character, financial need and commitment to Japanese studies. Average award: approximately $800/month. For more information, please make an appointment with an Education Abroad Advisor.
Morgan Stanley Scholarship
Applicants must be junior or senior level, with an interest in economics or international finance. Average award: $7,500. For more information, visit the American Association of Teachers of Japanese website.
Turkey
Turkish Coalition of America (TCA)
In line with its mission to engage and cultivate a new generation of young Turkish American leaders, TCA offers a wide range of scholarships available for American minority and heritage students wishing to study in Turkey and support TCA's mission to build people-to-people bridges between the United States and Turkey. For more information, visit the TCA website.
The American-Scandinavian Foundation (ASF)
The ASF offers around $300,000 to outstanding American students, scholars, professionals and artists for study and/or research in Scandinavia. Fellowships of up to $23,000 are intended to support an academic year-long stay, and priority is given to students at the graduate level who need to spend time at foreign academic or research institutions. Grants of up to $5,000 are considered more suitable for shorter research visits, both on the graduate or post-doctoral level. Funding is available to candidates in all fields. For more information, visit the ASF website.
Blakemore Foundation Fellowships
The Blakemore Foundation awards scholarships for advanced Asian language studies such as Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Thai, Indonesian, Vietnamese, Burmese, and Khmer. Fellows spend a year abroad in an intensive language program at a specific language school as listed on the foundation website. Applicants must have (at a minimum) a bachelor’s degree and at least three years of study of the language at the college level by the start of the grant. For more information, visit the Blakemore Foundation website.
Chateaubriand Fellowship Program
The Chateaubriand Fellowship is supported by the French Embassy and allows doctorate students enrolled in American universities to conduct research in France for up to nine months. The STEM and the Humanities & Social Sciences (HSS) fellowship programs have different modes of selection but they are both highly prestigious and merit based. Recipients receive a stipend, round trip tickets to France and health insurance. For more information, visit the Chateaubriand Fellowship Program website.
Luce Scholars Program
The Luce Scholars Program is a nationally competitive fellowship program launched by the Henry Luce Foundation in 1974 to enhance the understanding of Asia among potential leaders in American society. The program provides stipends, language training, and individualized professional placement in Asia for 15-18 Luce Scholars each year, and welcomes applications from college seniors, graduate students, and young professionals in a variety of fields who have had limited exposure to Asia. For more information, visit the Luce Scholars Program website.
Rotary Peace Fellowship
Supports a scholar for a two-year master’s degree at one of the six Rotary Centers for International Studies worldwide. Average award: tuition, fees, registration, housing for 21 months, transportation, contingency expenses, and other funding. The 2023-2024 Rotary Peace Fellowship application will open in February 2022; applications must be submitted by May 15, 2022 and endorsed by July 1, 2022. For more information, please visit the Peace Fellowship website.
Scholarships & Fellowships with Support from the Distinguished Scholarships Program
The University of Idaho Distinguished Scholarships Program administers and assists with the application process for the following scholarships and fellowships. Email the Faculty Fellow, Dr. Erin Damman, for more information.
Fulbright Fellowship
Graduating seniors and graduate students only. Applications must be completed a full-year in advance. Average award: entire cost of study abroad program. For more information, visit the Fulbright website.
Gates Cambridge Scholarships
These prestigious, highly competitive full-cost scholarships are awarded to outstanding applicants from countries outside the UK to pursue a full-time postgraduate degree in any subject available at the University of Cambridge. For more information, visit the Gates Cambridge website.
Marshall Scholarships
Up to forty scholars are selected each year for these full-cost scholarships to study at the graduate level at a UK institution in any field of study. Marshall Scholars strengthen the enduring relationship between British and American peoples, their governments and their institutions. For more information, visit the Marshall Scholarships website.
Rhodes Scholarships
The Rhodes Scholarships are the oldest and most celebrated international fellowship awards in the world. Each year, 32 young Americans are selected as Rhodes Scholars and receive full financial support to pursue a degree or degrees at the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom. For more information, visit the Rhodes Scholarship website.
Schwarzman Scholars
Schwarzman Scholars was founded in 2013 with a very specific global mission to educate future world leaders about China and in so doing, contribute to stronger, more stable relations between nations. Each year, 200 students from around the world will be named as Schwarzman Scholars, completing coursework for a one-year Master’s degree at Tsinghua University in Beijing. For more information, visit the Schwarzman Scholars website.
Scholarship Databases:
LGBTQA Scholarship Websites:
- Pride Foundation
- PFLAG
- Live Out Loud
- Affordable Colleges Online guide to College Scholarships for LGBTQ Students