The U.S. Department of State’s Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program has officially launched the March 2026 application cycle, offering funding to help students with financial need participate in study abroad programs and international internships.
The Gilman Scholarship is designed to broaden access to global learning by supporting Pell Grant recipients who want to gain international experience as part of their academic program. Awards of up to $5,000 are available for eligible students participating in credit-bearing study abroad programs or internships that take place between May 1, 2026 and April 30, 2027.
Who Is Eligible?
The Gilman Scholarship is open to:
-U.S. citizen undergraduate students
-Current recipients of the Federal Pell Grant
-Students enrolled in credit-bearing study abroad programs or internships
-Programs located in countries with U.S. Department of State Level 1 or Level 2 Travel Advisories
This scholarship is especially valuable for students who may not otherwise have the financial means to pursue an international experience.
Important Deadlines:
Students interested in applying should begin preparing their applications early. Key dates for the March 2026 cycle include:
Student Application Deadline: Thursday, March 5, 2026 at 11:59 PM (Pacific Time)
Award Notifications: May 2026
Applications require thoughtful essays and advisor certification, so early planning is strongly encouraged.
Additional Gilman Opportunities: In addition to the standard Gilman Scholarship, students may also be eligible for several supplemental or specialized awards, including:
John S. McCain International Scholarship for Military Families (Gilman-McCain):
For child and spousal dependents of U.S. military personnel who are active or activated during the application period.
Critical Need Language Award:
For students studying languages deemed critical to U.S. national security and economic competitiveness.
STEM Supplemental Award:
For students majoring in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics fields who are participating in eligible programs.
The Gilman Program also maintains global partnerships that provide additional scholarship opportunities for students studying in select locations, including Germany, New Zealand, Portugal, and Taiwan. Students interested in these opportunities apply through the standard Gilman application process.
Learn More and Apply: Students interested in studying or interning abroad during the 2026–2027 academic year are strongly encouraged to explore the Gilman Scholarship and begin preparing their applications now.
For full eligibility details, application instructions, and resources, visit:
https://www.gilmanscholarship.org
More details at: https://www.gilmanscholarship.org