Calling Applicants for the Boren Scholarship and Fellowship

​Are you an undergraduate or graduate student passionate about immersing yourself in new languages and cultures? Is a career working with the U.S. government part of your future plans? 

The Boren Scholarship offers a unique opportunity for undergraduates to study abroad and study languages in regions critical to U.S. interests, such as Africa, Asia, Central & Eastern Europe, Eurasia, Latin America, and the Middle East. The Boren Fellowship funds research and language study by U.S. graduate students in the same regions as the Boren Scholarship. 

Why Consider the Boren Scholarship?

  • Funding: Receive up to $25,000 for programs lasting 25-52 weeks, $12,500 for 12-24 weeks, and $8,000 for 8-11 weeks (the latter available exclusively to STEM majors). 
  • Language and Cultural Immersion: Enhance your proficiency in less commonly taught languages and gain a deep understanding of diverse cultures.​
  • Career Advancement: Fulfill a one-year federal service requirement post-graduation, opening doors to careers in various government agencies.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • U.S. citizenship
  • Enrollment in an accredited undergraduate program during the application and scholarship period.
  • Commitment to a study abroad program in eligible countries outside Western Europe, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. 

Application Insights:

  • Academic Excellence: Demonstrate the capability to succeed in rigorous overseas programs.​
  • National Security Relevance: Articulate how your chosen country, language, and field of study align with U.S. national security interests.
  • Language Commitment: Show dedication to language study before, during, and after your time abroad.​
  • Government Service Aspiration: Express a clear intention to pursue a career in federal service.

Application Deadline: Late January annually

Notification of Selection: Late April

For more information or to apply, please visit the Boren Awards website!

The Boren Scholarship is a great chance to study abroad, increase language ability, experience new cultures, and gain skills that can help with thriving in  a future federal job. If you’re excited to travel, learn, and serve your country, this scholarship could open the door to an incredible opportunity!

Author: Jovana Cvetanovic

By Jessica Lane-Rwabukwisi
Jessica Lane-Rwabukwisi Senior Academic Partnerships Specialist