CIEE Study Abroad Scholarship

Name: CIEE Study Abroad Scholarship

Award Amount: Up to $1,000

Information And Eligibility:
The CIEE Study Abroad Scholarship is offered by the Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE), one of the oldest and most respected study abroad organizations in the world. The scholarship is designed to help undergraduate students reduce the cost of participating in CIEE study abroad programs and to expand access to international education for students from diverse backgrounds. By providing financial assistance, CIEE aims to ensure that studying abroad is attainable for students who might otherwise face financial barriers.

This scholarship is available to undergraduate students enrolled at accredited U.S. colleges or universities who have been accepted into a CIEE study abroad program. Applicants must be enrolled as full-time students at their home institution and must have completed at least one year of college coursework prior to the start of their study abroad program. The award is typically applied directly toward program costs such as tuition, housing, or program fees, helping to offset the overall expense of studying abroad.

CIEE places strong emphasis on supporting students with demonstrated financial need. Applicants are generally required to submit FAFSA information or other financial documentation as part of the application process. In addition, the scholarship prioritizes students who are traditionally underrepresented in study abroad, including first-generation college students, students from low-income households, and students from racial or ethnic minority backgrounds. Through this focus, CIEE seeks to promote equity, inclusion, and diversity in global education experiences.

Academic readiness and personal motivation are also important components of the selection process. Applicants are expected to maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale, though individual program requirements may vary. Students must submit a thoughtful personal essay explaining why they want to study abroad, how the experience aligns with their academic and career goals, and what they hope to gain from immersion in another culture. The essay allows reviewers to assess the applicant’s preparedness, maturity, and commitment to meaningful cross-cultural engagement.

CIEE study abroad programs are known for combining rigorous academic coursework with experiential learning, cultural activities, and on-site support. Scholarship recipients benefit not only from financial assistance but also from access to high-quality programs that foster global awareness, independence, and adaptability. Students often return from their programs with enhanced communication skills, a broader worldview, and valuable experiences that strengthen their academic profile and career prospects.

Deadlines for the CIEE Study Abroad Scholarship vary by program and term, with many applications due several months before the program start date. Students are encouraged to apply early, carefully review program-specific requirements, and submit complete and well-prepared applications to maximize their chances of receiving funding.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be an undergraduate student enrolled full-time at an accredited U.S. college or university.
• Must have completed at least one year of college coursework prior to the program start date.
• Must be accepted into an eligible CIEE study abroad program.
• Must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
• Must demonstrate financial need through FAFSA or other documentation.

Deadline: Varies by program (generally several months before the program start date)

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